Buying Guide

The Camp Collar Isn’t Going Anywhere

It’s the unofficial uniform of cool guys during the summer months. A shirt with many names, the camp collar shirt is sometimes called a Cuban collar shirt, a cabana shirt or simply a “vacation shirt”. Laidback and a bit louche, there's a rakish yet refined charm to these shirts—which is why they're not only easy to wear but also look good on just about everyone. It's that signature collar that lays flat against your upper chest to create a V-shaped neckline—just how deep is determined by how many buttons you fasten.

And while the breezy tropical prints of the classic Hawaiian shirt have reigned supreme for the last few years—and they're not really going anywhere—the latest batch from brands big and small offers a fresh perspective. They're a touch wilder and more graphic, with some throwback appeal to them. The fabric is drapey and the silhouette a little boxy, giving them an even more relaxed fit and feel.

As you probably already know, there's really no wrong way to wear them. Layer it over a T-shirt and wear it open with some washed jeans or your favorite shorts. Toss one on with your swim trunks. Some fresh ways to wear it this summer include tucking it into some high-waisted, wide-leg pants or with your lightweight summer suit (with that collar out over the jacket's lapels). Whatever you decide, just make sure you've got one or more of these shirts in your wardrobe rotation.