Palaka Fabric – A Historic Symbol of Hawaiian Culture 

 

Originally worn by Hawaiian plantation field workers in the 1900s, palaka fabric is a thick, checkered-patterned cloth that has become a staple of Hawaiian heritage. With its durability and classic look, palaka was widely embraced, evolving into an everyday work shirt and later, an iconic fashion statement.

 

As Hawai‘i embraced its laid-back island lifestyle, palaka shirts played a key role in changing fashion norms. During an era of high-fashion formality, the palaka shirt was one of the first to be worn untucked, setting the stage for the relaxed, casual style that would define Aloha Fridays.

 

While the rise of the aloha shirt, with its vibrant prints and cooler rayon fabric, eventually took center stage for both locals and tourists, palaka remains a cherished symbol of Hawaiian tradition—a fabric that once clothed a kingdom and shaped an island’s style. Pictured here is a sample of the Car Seatbelt & Handle Cover Set.  So U'i!