How to Style Vintage Tiki Bowling Shirts for a Retro Summer Look

The Return of the Tiki Bowling Shirt

Tiki bowling shirts are making a comeback in a big way. These vintage shirts with their bold, graphic prints and vibrant colors hearken back to the 1950s and 60s when tiki bowling shirts were popular casual wear. Now, modern style icons and influencers are bringing these retro shirts back into style.

The History of the Tiki Bowling Shirt

The tiki bowling shirt has its origins in Hawaiian shirts, which became fashionable among tourists visiting Hawaii in the 1930s. They were known for their colorful prints and use of bold Hawaiian motifs. In the 1950s, the shirts became popular among American bowlers. Bowling was a beloved pastime, and leagues sprouted up all over the country. The sport's casual nature made the Hawaiian shirt a perfect team uniform. Thus, the tiki bowling shirt was born.

The shirts often featured stylized Polynesian masks, palm trees, hula dancers, pineapples, and other tropical designs. They were made of rayon or other lightweight, breathable fabrics ideal for bowling's active pace. Big brands like Brunswick and Aloha churned out eye-catching bowling shirts that echoed the craze for Hawaiian culture and tiki pop art in the postwar era.

How to Style a Vintage Tiki Bowling Shirt

Vintage tiki bowling shirts may seem tricky to style at first. Their bold prints and colors aren't for wallflowers. However, you can easily incorporate them into modern casual looks.

• Pair with neutral basics - Let the shirt be the focal point by keeping the rest of your look simple. For women, try high-waisted denim, white jeans, or khaki shorts. Throw on some white sneakers or sandals. For men, wear dark wash jeans and casual sneakers.
• Lean into the retro vibe - Style your tiki shirt with other elements from past eras. On women, a poodle skirt or high-waisted shorts with crop tops or knotted button-ups exude 50s-60s flair. Men can wear cuffed jeans, leather jackets, and oxford shoes.
• Choose complementary colors - Tiki shirts come in a rainbow of hues. Pick solids in similar shades. A blue shirt pops with light blue denim. Red complements deeper shades like maroon or pink. Keep patterns to a minimum.
• Layer with light jackets - Varsity jackets, denim jackets, and cardigans tone down loud tiki shirts while adding warmth on cool summer nights. Avoid thick layers that hide the shirt's design.
• Accessorize - Don't overdo it with jewelry or bags that compete with the shirt. Stick to simple metals, leather bracelets, and woven handbags or totes.

When to Wear a Tiki Bowling Shirt

It's best to save your vintage tiki bowling shirt for casual summer activities and environments. The shirts pair perfectly with sunny weather and a laidback vibe.

Wear them for:

• Backyard BBQs, lawn parties, and outdoor concerts
• Beach coverups and poolside lounging
• Picnics, hikes, and outdoor exploring
• Running errands like trips to the farmer's market or grocery store
• Vacation or cruise wear
• Bowling nights and recreation league games

While tiki shirts work best for casual settings, you can dress them up a bit too. For gals, pair with a midi skirt and wedges for a fun date-night look. Guys can wear an unbuttoned tiki over a tank with black jeans and boots for drinks at the bar.

Finding the Perfect Vintage Tiki Bowling Shirt

Authentic vintage tiki bowling shirts from the 1950s-1970s can be found online through eBay, Etsy, Depop, and other reseller platforms. If you want the vintage look without the hunt, many brands now make modern takes on the tiki shirt.

When shopping vintage, inspect any photos closely to check for holes, stains, and other damage. Look at the seller's reviews to ensure they provide accurate descriptions and handle transactions smoothly.

For new tiki shirts, J.Crew, Old Navy, Target, and Tommy Bahama offer lots of options. Or explore small boutiques and brands that bring back original tiki designs!

Caring for Your Tiki Bowling Shirt

Follow these tips to extend the life of your vintage (or new) tiki bowling shirt:

• Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hot water can fade prints.
• Hang dry only - avoid the dryer's heat.
• Use color-safe bleach if needed.
• Iron inside-out on low heat.
• Store folded in a cool, dry place.
• Spot clean stains immediately with a damp cloth.
• Take to a tailor for mends and alterations that retain original seams.

With the right care and styling, your vintage tiki shirt will keep you looking and feeling cool all summer long!

FAQs

Where did the tiki bowling shirt originate?

The tiki bowling shirt grew out of Hawaiian shirts worn by tourists in Hawaii in the 1930s. In the 1950s, the colorful Hawaiian shirts were adopted by American bowling teams and leagues, becoming known as tiki bowling shirts.

What types of prints and designs are on tiki shirts?

Tiki bowling shirts feature Polynesian motifs like masks, palm trees, and hula dancers. They also often have tropical designs including pineapples, flamingos, and island scenery. The prints are colorful and eye-catching.

How should women style vintage tiki bowling shirts?

Women can pair tiki bowling shirts with high-waisted denim, white jeans, khaki shorts, or poodle skirts. Wear with white sneakers or sandals for a casual look. Dress it up with wedges and midi skirts for a retro date-night outfit.

Can men wear tiki bowling shirts?

Absolutely! Men should pair tiki shirts with cuffed jeans or dark wash denim for a vintage look. Wear an unbuttoned tiki over a tank tucked into black jeans and boots to dress it up. Sneakers also pair well for a relaxed vibe.

Where can I buy an authentic vintage tiki bowling shirt?

You can find vintage tiki bowling shirts from the '50s-'70s online through sites like eBay, Etsy, Depop, and other resale platforms. Check seller reviews and inspect photos closely for damage before purchasing.