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From Luau Nights to Surfing Mornings: Your Guide to What to Wear in Hawaii

Get ready for some serious beach vibes with our guide on what to wear in Hawaii. You will be the queen of the luau with our fashion suggestions that also serve surf-ready styles.

14 min read
Photo-Illustration: Catchy Shopper; Photos: Retailers

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Hey, Fashionistas, Justyna here! Welcome to my guide, "From Luau Nights to Surfing Mornings: Your Hawaii Style Guide." Are you packing for your Hawaiian dream? Unsure what to wear? I'm here to help.

Hawaii's more than a hotspot—it's a vibrant fusion of culture, nature, and fashion. You could be hiking volcanoes, chilling beachside, exploring tropical forests, or getting your Luau groove on. Whatever the scene, your outfit's gotta match the vibe.

So, here's the scoop—I'm breaking down outfit inspo for every month, accounting for local activities and weather. This guide's got you covered for a chic Hawaiian journey from top to toe.

And let's not forget, style is more than just your outfit—it's all about those killer accessories too. I've sprinkled in my fave Hawaiian accessories to take your look up a notch.

Expanding your vacay plans to Greece or Mexico? No prob! Check out my posts on Greece Outfit Ideas and Mexico Style Tips for some flirty, flattering ensembles. Get ready, style queens, your global fashion adventure starts here!

What to Wear on the Plane to Hawaii

ready to help you conquer that long flight to Hawaii in style and comfort. 'Cause let's be real, even a plane ride is a runway, right?

First, you gotta check out my previous posts on Travel Wear for Women, exquisite Travel Purses, chic Travel Accessories for Women, Vacation Clothes for Women, and the Best Travel Outfits for Long Flights. - they're packed with tips, ideas, and looks that are sure to inspire you.

Don't forget to stay fresh on your flight, so take a peek at my posts about Travel-Sized Beauty Products and Travel-Sized Toiletries. These will keep you feeling great and looking stunning from take-off to touchdown.

But here's the 411 for the plane ride to Hawaii: you need to strike the right balance between comfort and style. Because there's nothing worse than a fabulous outfit that feels like a straitjacket at 30,000 feet.

So let's break it down:

  1. Layer It Up: Airplanes are notorious for fluctuating temperatures, so layering is key. Start with a cute, breathable tank top or tee, and add a comfy sweater or stylish sweatshirt. Don't forget your trendy scarf that doubles as a blanket!
  2. Bottoms Up: You can't go wrong with a pair of sleek, stretchy leggings or relaxed-fit jeans. Want a more dressed-up look? Opt for wide-leg pants or a maxi skirt—they're stylish and super comfy.
  3. Feet First: Slip-on shoes are your best friends. Think stylish sneakers or chic flats. They're easy for security checks and you can slip them off once you're settled in your seat.
  4. Accessories All The Way: Your carry-on bag and purse are not just for stashing travel essentials—they're part of your outfit too. Choose a roomy tote or backpack with a pop of color for a fun, functional style.

Remember, darlings, looking fabulous starts the moment you step out of your door. Now, go slay that airport look on your way to Hawaii!

Tips for How to Dress in Hawaii

getting you prepped for that Hawaiian paradise. We're going beyond the plane now, right into the heart of Hawaii. Here are some evergreen tips to keep you looking hot while staying cool, no matter when you visit.

  1. Embrace the Aloha Spirit: Start with some island flair. Think tropical prints, breezy fabrics, and vibrant colors. Throw on a cute Aloha shirt or a colorful maxi dress - you'll fit right in and look fabulous doing it.
  2. Stay Cool & Comfy: Hawaii's got that tropical vibe, so lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon are your best bet. Opt for loose, flowy dresses, shorts, and crop tops to keep you cool under the Hawaiian sun.
  3. Rock the Beach Look: With all those stunning beaches, you'll want to rock your beachwear beyond the sand. A stylish swimsuit paired with a flowy cover-up can go from beach to café with ease. Don't forget your flip-flops or strappy sandals.
  4. Hiking Chic: Planning to explore Hawaii's lush trails? Sport some cute activewear - think breathable tanks, quick-dry shorts, and supportive footwear. Just because you're hiking doesn't mean you can't do it in style!
  5. Night Out Luau Style: For those magical Hawaiian nights, opt for a dressier look. An elegant maxi dress or a jumpsuit in tropical prints is perfect. And remember, a Luau isn't complete without a traditional lei.
  6. Remember to Layer: Even in Hawaii, evenings can get a bit cool. Always have a light cardigan, wrap, or denim jacket handy.
  7. Accessorize, Mami: Give your Hawaiian outfits the perfect finishing touch with some island-inspired accessories. Go bold with chunky jewelry, protect your skin with wide-brimmed hats, and add some sass with a pair of fabulous sunglasses. Explore our specially curated accessory guides, showcasing unique selections of Chunky Jewelry, Hats, and Statement Jewelry. Delve into our assortment of trendy Sunglasses, versatile Crossbody Purses, and chic Fanny Packs. Unearth the charm of Boho Accessories and elegant Black Purses in our collections. Start your journey towards accessorizing in style with us today!

With our tips, you'll be living the Island dream with all the confidence in the world. Take charge of your style and rock that island look - now is your chance!

Hawaii Outfit Ideas

If you are blessed enough to go on the trip to Hawaii, we suggest wearing these fashionable outfits:

What to Wear in Hawaii in January

Shop on Amazon: SHIRT | SHORTS | SHOES | RAIN JACKET | T-SHIRTS | SWEATER | TRUNKS | BEACH BAG | BASEBALL CAP | STRAW HAT | SUNSCREEN | SUNDRESS

January in Hawaii sees a blend of both rainy and sunny days with temperatures averaging between 20-27 degrees Celsius (68-81F). Starting your Hawaii packing list with comfortable and versatile clothing is key. Opt for light layers like t-shirts or polo shirts paired with khaki shorts during the day. Don't forget to pack a rain jacket to deal with the occasional showers. Evenings can be a bit cooler, so a light sweater will come in handy.

For a typical January day, consider pairing an aloha shirt with some khaki shorts and tennis shoes for a perfect blend of Hawaiian style and comfort. If you're planning on visiting any of the Hawaiian islands' stunning beaches, remember to pack swim trunks and a beach bag filled with your beach essentials such as a baseball cap, a straw hat, and reef-friendly sunscreen.

The New Year period also sees a number of special events and parties. For these occasions, pack dressy casual attire such as a nice sundress for ladies and a matching aloha shirt with loose-fitting linen pants for men.

What to Wear in Hawaii in February

Shop on Amazon: DRESS | SANDALS | RAIN JACKET | T-SHIRTS | SHORTS | SWIMSUIT | BEACH BAG | TENNIS SHOES | LEGGINGS

February in Hawaii maintains similar weather conditions to January, with temperatures averaging around 19-27 degrees Celsius (66-81F). The weather can be a mix of light showers and sunny spells, making your Hawaiian shirts and rain jackets essential items on your packing list. Light layers remain a practical choice, with t-shirts and denim shorts forming your basic daytime outfits.

An outfit idea for February might include a colorful dress paired with flat sandals, perfect for a day out exploring the big island. Don't forget your rain jacket for those unexpected showers. If you're planning some water sports, a swimsuit made of quick-drying material is a must, along with a beach bag to carry your essentials.

In February, Hawaii celebrates the Great Aloha Run, which draws both locals and tourists. If you plan to attend or participate, make sure you pack appropriate sportswear. Tennis shoes and comfortable shorts or running leggings are advisable.

What to Wear in Hawaii in March

Shop on Amazon: HAWAIIAN SET | TENNIS SHOES | SUNDRESS | FLAT SANDALS | RAIN JACKET | TANK TOPS | SHORTS | SUN HAT | HIKING SHOES | BACKPACK

March is slightly warmer than the previous two months, with temperatures ranging from 20-28 degrees Celsius (68-82F). Rain is still possible, so packing a light rain jacket is a good idea. Daytime attire should focus on comfort and sun protection, with items like tank tops, shorts, and sun hats being high on your Hawaii packing list.

An outfit idea for a day in Hawaii during March might include a Hawaiian shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes, or opt for a sundress and flat sandals. If you're planning to explore Hawaii's beautiful trails, make sure to pack some hiking shoes, a backpack, and a suitable outfit.

March also hosts the Honolulu Festival, a vibrant celebration of the Pacific cultures. If you plan on attending this festival, consider packing slightly dressier options such as a nice dress for women and an aloha shirt paired with linen pants for men.

What to Wear in Hawaii in April

Shop on Amazon: SHIRT | SHORTS | SANDALS | BEACH BAG | STRAW HAT | SUNSCREEN | LINEN PANTS | LINEN PANTS | BLOUSE | RAIN JACKET

April sees temperatures ranging between 21-29 degrees Celsius (70-84F) with a mix of sunny and slightly rainy days. Therefore, packing light but versatile outfits is essential. Consider a Hawaii outfit incorporating tank tops, shorts, or light linen pants for daytime exploring. It's also advisable to include a light rain jacket and reef-safe sunscreen on your Hawaii packing list.

For a typical day, pair a Hawaiian shirt with shorts and flat sandals. Don't forget to carry a beach bag with all your essentials, including a straw hat and sunscreen, for beach days. If you plan to engage in activities like waterfall hikes or horseback riding, consider packing suitable outfits and sturdy shoes.

Easter often falls in April and is widely celebrated in Hawaii. For this special occasion, women might choose to wear a floral dress, or linen pants paired with a stylish blouse for a more casual look. While men might wear aloha shirts paired with khaki shorts for a more casual look or linen pants for a dressier occasion.

What to Wear in Hawaii in May

Shop on Amazon: SUNDRESS | SHIRT | SHORTS | TENNIS SHOES | BEACH BAG | SUN HAT | COVER-UP | SUNSCREEN | HIKING SET | HIKING BOOTS

May marks the start of warmer weather with temperatures reaching between 22-30 (72-86F) degrees Celsius. Your Hawaii outfits should accommodate this change in weather. Tank tops, sun dresses, and shorts are perfect for hot weather, while a light sweater might be needed for cooler evenings. Water shoes could be a great addition to your packing list if you're planning to participate in water activities.

A daytime outfit for May could be a sundress or a Hawaiian shirt paired with shorts and tennis shoes. If you're planning a trip to the beach, pack a beach bag filled with essentials like a sun hat, beach cover-up, and reef safe sunscreen. For hiking or exploring, opt for comfy shorts, a t-shirt, and hiking boots.

Lei Day is a major celebration in Hawaii in May. Attendees often wear their most vibrant Hawaiian-style outfits. Consider packing a colorful Hawaiian shirt or dress and some matching accessories for this special event.

What to Wear in Hawaii in June

Shop on Amazon: SHIRT | SHORTS | SHOES | SWIMSUIT | BAG | STRAW HAT | SUNSCREEN | DRESS

June in Hawaii is characterized by temperatures between 23-31 degrees Celsius (73-88F). It's hot and sunny most days, so make sure your Hawaii outfits are lightweight and breathable. T-shirts, sun dresses, and khaki shorts should be on your packing list. Also, bring a straw hat and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. It's advisable to pack a pair of comfortable tennis shoes for walking, as well as sandals for the beach.

A great outfit for exploring the Hawaiian island in June could be a loose-fitting aloha shirt paired with khaki shorts and tennis shoes. If beach visits are on the itinerary, don't forget to pack a swimsuit and beach bag with all your beach essentials.

June is when Hawaii hosts the King Kamehameha Floral Parade. Dressing in vibrant floral dresses or aloha shirts is a great way to fit in with the locals and enjoy the festival atmosphere.

What to Wear in Hawaii in July

Shop on Amazon: CROP TOP | SHORTS | SHOES | BEACH BAG | SWIMSUIT | BEACH COVER-UP | SUNSCREEN | DRESS | TOP | SHORTS | LINEN PANTS

July is one of the hottest months in Hawaii, with temperatures often ranging between 23-31 degrees Celsius (73-88F). For your Hawaiian vacation, you'll want to stick to light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Tank tops, sundresses, and shorts should be staples in your Hawaii outfits. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a pair of good sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun. Water shoes are also a good idea if you plan on participating in water sports.

For a day of sightseeing, wear a crop top, shorts, and comfortable walking shoes. Always keep a beach bag packed with essentials like a swimsuit, beach cover-up, and sunscreen for impromptu beach days.

Hawaii's Prince Lot Hula Festival takes place in July, where visitors can enjoy traditional Hawaiian music and dance. For this event, consider a floral dress or a Hawaiian top paired with khaki shorts or loose-fitting linen pants for a truly Hawaiian style.

What to Wear in Hawaii in August

Shop on Amazon: TOP | SKIRT | TENNIS SHOES | SWIMSUIT | BEACH COVER-UP | HAT | SUNGLASSES | BEACH BAG 

August in Hawaii is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 23-31 degrees Celsius (73-88F). Your Hawaii packing list should include light, breathable clothing items like shirts, sun dresses, and mini skirts. Be sure to pack a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Water shoes could come in handy if you plan on engaging in water sports.

During the day, a skirt paired with a tube top and tennis shoes would work well. For the beach, pack your swimsuit, and a beach cover-up, and don't forget to add sun block to your beach bag.

The Aloha Festivals kick-off in late August, where attendees often wear traditional Aloha attire. Consider packing colorful shirts or floral dresses to partake in the festivities.

What to Wear in Hawaii in September

Shop on Amazon: SUNDRESS | BLOUSE | MIDI SKIRT| SANDALS | SWIMSUIT | BEACH COVER-UP | SUNGLASSES | BEACH BAG 

September temperatures in Hawaii range from 23-31 degrees Celsius (73-88F). It's still relatively hot, so your Hawaiian vacation outfits should include items like blouses, skirts, and sundresses. Pack a straw hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, and include water shoes if you plan on enjoying water sports.

A daytime outfit might include a sundress or blouse paired with a midi skirt and comfortable walking sandals. For beach days, pack a swimsuit and cover-up in your beach bag.

September is the peak of the Aloha Festivals, so wearing your Aloha attire is encouraged.

What to Wear in Hawaii in October

Shop on Amazon: RAIN JACKET | SHIRT & SHORTS | TENNIS SHOES | SWIMSUIT | BEACH COVER-UP | BEACH BAG | HAT | SUNGLASSES | FLORAL DRESS

October in Hawaii begins to cool down slightly, with temperatures ranging from 21-29 degrees Celsius (70-84F). Rainfall increases during this time, so be sure to include a light rain jacket in your Hawaii packing list. Continue packing light, breathable shirts, shorts, and sundresses. Don't forget your hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection, and water shoes for any water activities.

For a daytime outfit, consider a shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes. For beach days, have a swimsuit and cover-up ready in your beach bag, along with your sunscreen.

The Ironman World Championship takes place on the Big Island in October, so if you plan on spectating, be sure to pack your Hawaiian outfits, like a Hawaiian shirt and loose-fitting linen pants. If you want to be slightly dressier, opt for a floral dress.

What to Wear in Hawaii in November

Shop on Amazon: LIGHT JACKET | TOP | DENIM SHORTS | SHOES | SWIMSUIT | COVER-UP | BEACH BAG | FLORAL DRESS

November in Hawaii has temperatures ranging from 20-27 degrees Celsius (68-85F), with increasing chances of rain. A light jacket or rain jacket would be a valuable addition to your Hawaii packing list. Continue to pack light tops, shorts, and sundresses, along with your hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Water shoes will still be useful for water activities.

A comfortable daytime outfit could be a top with shorts and tennis shoes. For beach days, pack a swimsuit and cover-up, along with your sunscreen in your beach bag.

November is the month of the Hawaii International Film Festival. While there is no strict dress code, you can never go wrong with a nice aloha shirt or a floral dress to celebrate in Hawaiian style.

What to Wear in Hawaii in December

Shop on Amazon: LIGHT SWEATER | RAIN JACKET | SHIRT | SHORTS | SHOES | SWIMSUIT | COVER-UP | BEACH BAG | FLORAL DRESS

December is the start of Hawaii's rainy season, with temperatures ranging between 19-26 degrees Celsius (66-78F). Pack a light sweater and rain jacket in case of cooler temperatures or sudden showers. Hawaiian shirts, shorts, and sun dresses should still be mainstays in your Hawaii outfits. Don't forget your hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect from the sun, and water shoes for any water activities.

A daytime outfit could consist of a light sweater, khaki shorts, and tennis shoes. For beach days, keep a swimsuit and cover-up in your beach bag.

The Honolulu Marathon takes place in December, so if you plan on attending, go with your comfortable Hawaiian shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes. For slightly dressier events, a floral dress would be a great choice.

Accessorize Appropriately

We all know that the right accessories can turn a simple look into a head-turning ensemble. And in Hawaii, well, they're not just about the glitz and glamour, they’re all about that perfect balance of style and comfort too.

Dive into our curated guide of accessory must-haves:

  1. Chunky Jewelry - Nothing says tropical diva quite like some chunky, statement-making jewelry, darling. Add a touch of wild island flair to your outfit!
  2. Hats - Whether you're rocking a wide-brimmed straw or a sassy fedora, hats are a girl's best friend in the Hawaii sun. And let’s be honest, they're super chic too!
  3. Statement Jewelry - Go bold or go home, right? Make waves with some fabulous statement jewelry. It’s all about being unapologetically you!
  4. Earrings - From subtle studs to glamorous hoops, earrings can transform your look in a heartbeat.
  5. Sunglasses - Protect those beautiful eyes from the sun, and do it with style, darling! With the right pair, you can make the beach your runway.

Now, let's throw the spotlight on our fabulous Crossbody Purses and Fanny Packs selections. They’re trendy, they’re convenient, and they’re oh-so-Hawaii-ready!

Can we also talk about the allure of our Boho Accessories and Black Purses? They scream effortless chic, the perfect balance between casual and classy. They are just waiting to be added to your vacation-style story.

Final Thoughts

Remember, while looking fabulous is always the goal, the real magic is in living your best life, feeling confident, and embracing the aloha spirit. Let your style tell your story, and let Hawaii be the backdrop for your fashion adventure.

So pack those bags, dress to impress, and get ready to slay in paradise. Hawaii is waiting, mamas, and it's time to shine! I can't wait to see all the fabulous styles you're going to rock. Enjoy every moment and remember—you're not just dressed for Hawaii, you're dressed for you. Show 'em what you've got!

Live, love, and always stay stylish, ladies! Aloha and shine bright.

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