Founded in 1936, Kahala holds the distinguished title of being the oldest continuously operating apparel company in Hawaiʻi. This iconic brand, known for its vibrant Aloha Shirts, has now teamed up with renowned designer Todd Snyder for an exclusive collaboration that celebrates Hawaiian heritage and style. The limited-edition collection features prints inspired by vintage kimonos, classic cocktails, and more, offering a fresh take on the timeless Aloha Shirt.
To put these extraordinary pieces to the test, the brands turned to Cameron Campbell, a talented pianist and composer, who sported the Todd Snyder x Kahala Aloha Shirts while warming up for a gig at Tribeca’s Django Jazz Club. The shirts not only exuded laid-back sophistication but also captured the essence of the Hawaiian islands.
The Todd Snyder x Kahala Aloha Shirt in Green Floral stands out as a true gem from the collection. Crafted from a unique rayon filament developed in collaboration with Japanese mills, this shirt offers a lustrous feel reminiscent of traditional silk. Its silhouette embodies the classic Aloha Shirt with short sleeves, an open collar, and a loose fit designed to be worn untucked. The archival Polynesian pareo-style print from the 1930s, featuring an oversized green-and-blue floral pattern of Hawaiian flora, adds a touch of vintage charm.
Kahala’s rich history traces back to its co-founder, George Brangier, who fell in love with Hawai’i after meeting legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. In 1936, Brangier and his partner, Nat Norfleet, established the clothing brand known as Branfleet, later renamed Kahala Sportswear. They were pioneers in factory manufacturing of the Aloha Shirt, and to this day, the company continues to operate, embodying the spirit of Hawai’i.
The Todd Snyder x Kahala collaboration extends beyond the Green Floral shirt. The collection also includes the Todd Snyder x Kahala Aloha Shirt in Natural Tiki, Teal Fish, Japanese Coral, and Blue Floral, each priced at $228. These shirts showcase Kahala’s commitment to quality, featuring 100% Rayon Filament, a boxy fit, matched front and pocket, and a one-piece camp collar. Every garment is proudly made in Hawai’i, where the brand’s legacy began.
In case you missed it, see Billy Reid’s Slub Cotton Shorts.