The Holy Grail of Aloha Shirts: Vintage Kamehameha & the Matson Menu Print

History. Art. Island soul. All in one shirt.

At LOUD VTG, we’re all about vintage fashion that tells a story. And if there’s one shirt that embodies everything we love rare design, cultural depth, and timeless style. it’s the vintage Kamehameha aloha shirt, especially the legendary Matson Menu print.

Let’s take a trip back to where it all started.

Who Was Kamehameha Garment Company?

Founded in 1936 in Honolulu, the Kamehameha Garment Co. wasn’t just a clothing brand—it was a cultural movement. As one of the first companies to produce aloha shirts, they elevated the Hawaiian shirt from souvenir to statement piece.

Their prints were bold, their fabric (usually rayon) was silky, and their attention to detail—like matched pockets and clean seams

Named after King Kamehameha the Great, the brand paid tribute to Hawaii’s heritage while blending traditional imagery with modern style.

The Matson Menu Shirt: Wearable Art with a Nautical Past

In the late 1930s, the Matson Navigation Company operated luxury cruise ships between California and Hawaii. To bring the islands to life for passengers, Matson commissioned artist Eugene Savage to create a series of illustrated menu covers rich with scenes of hula, luaus, native culture, and tropical landscapes.

Kamehameha saw something magical in those menu designs.

So they did something bold: they turned the artwork into aloha shirts.

The result? The Matson Menu shirt a masterpiece of mid-century fashion that blends fine art, travel history, and Hawaiian storytelling in one eye-catching piece.

Why Vintage Kamehameha Shirts Are So Coveted

Original Kamehameha shirts, especially the Matson Menu design, are among the most collectible vintage pieces out there. Here's why:

• Historical significance: They’re part of Hawaii’s fashion legacy.

• Craftsmanship: Made with soft rayon and precise construction.

• Visual impact: Their vibrant prints tell stories, not just trends.

• Rarity: Original pieces are hard to find and highly sought after by collectors.

Today, a well-preserved vintage Matson Menu shirt can fetch thousands of dollars especially in large sizes or rare colorways.

At LOUD VTG, We Celebrate the Legends

Our mission at LOUD VTG is to bring you more than just vintage clothing. we bring you style with soul. That’s why we’re obsessed with pieces like the Matson Menu Kamehameha shirt. It’s not just about the look. It’s about what it represents: a moment in time, frozen in fabric.

Whether you’re a collector, a fashion lover, or just someone who appreciates timeless design, these shirts are more than clothing. they're stories you can wear.