What is a “Cuban shirt”? Focusing on short-sleeved items that give your summer coordinate a cheerful tropical feel and a relaxed atmosphere.

Like the aloha shirt of Hawaii and the kariyushi shirt of Okinawa, the ” Cuban shirt ” is treated as formal wear in Cuba and Mexico, and is characterized by a cool, rough, tropical atmosphere. Its unique look has gained popularity in Japan as well. In this issue, we focus on the Cuban shirt and introduce a selection of recommended items from models developed by various brands!

Hot Summer Clothing Topics

The Cuban shirt, also known as the “guayabera,” is a traditional garment that originated in the Caribbean and is a popular item, especially in tropical regions such as Cuba. Its distinctive design is characterized by breathable materials (linen and cotton), vertical tucks on the front, and pockets placed on the chest and abdomen. These designs combine comfort and practicality, making them ideal for hot climates.

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A balance between formal and casual!

The most distinctive features of the Cuban shirt are the four work-inspired pockets and the vertical tuck design. Those details provide functionality and comfort. The short-sleeved design is common and works well at resorts and in casual business settings, as well as being comfortable in warmer climates. Some say that they were originally the work clothes of sugar cane plantations and the clothes of the working class, but the Cuban shirt’s sense of balance between formal and casual, where the cleanliness and formality are not compromised while still providing functional beauty, is an appeal unique to the Cuban shirt.

Characteristics of the Cuban Shirt 2: MaterialsBreathable and quick-drying material!

The Cuban shirt was originally intended to be “formal wear for surviving the heat. That is why natural fibers such as linen and cotton are used for the material, which is highly breathable and quick-drying. Recently, for fashionable use, there are also wrinkle-resistant linen and polyester blends and rayon blends with a glossy, resort-like appearance.

Characteristics of the Cuban shirt 3: How to wear itA versatile shirt that fits perfectly in town or at the resort

The Cuban shirt was the formal wear in Cuba and Mexico, and many brands are now releasing it as a fashion item. The silhouette is slightly boxy, so it looks good even without tucking in the hem, making it compatible with casual wear with wide pants or shorts. If you choose the long-sleeved type and match it with a tank top or T-shirt as an inner layer, you can enjoy it from early spring to early fall.

8 Recommended Cuban Shirts for Men

Here are some recommended Cuban shirts! We have picked up shirts that have a strong heritage of traditional Cuban shirt design, as well as modern shirts that have been reconstructed to fit in with urban life, so be sure to check them out.

Cuba Shirt Men's Recommended Item 1

Originally, Cuba shirts are characterized by embroidery, tucks, and other decorations, but in this work they are daringly eliminated. By keeping decorations low and creating a simple appearance, this shirt blends in naturally with the brand’s clean and elegant style. It can be worn in a resort-like style, of course, but it can also function as an offshoot of a dressier look when worn with trousers and leather shoes.

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Cuban Shirt Men's Recommended Item 2Donde Esteban 'Guayabera Shirt'

Donde Esteban’s brown Cuban shirt features a small collar. It is also made of 100% rayon knit, making it perfect for a more resort-like look.

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Cuba Shirt Men's recommended item 3

The Cuba shirt is a special order by BEAMS for the long-established workwear brand “UNIVERSAL OVERALL” from Chicago. The Cuban Shirt is made by Beams and is finished with an urban air. The mesh paneling on the elegant seersucker fabric not only ensures excellent breathability, but also adds a visual accent to the shirt. A special orange “U” embroidery on the right back hem and the BEAMS logo, not CHICAGO, on the neck.

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Cuba Shirt - Men's Recommended Item 4

ENGINEERED GARMENTS has been working on a long-sleeved Cuban shirt since this season. Four pockets are stacked on top of the tucks on the front, and the back is also tucked. The yoke of both the front and back are decorated with buttons, which is interesting. The material is a blend of 60% linen and 40% cotton.

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Cuba Shirts Men's Recommended Items 5

The Cuba Shirts of “SEEALL” pursue universal craftsmanship inspired by the inheritance and reinterpretation of world craftsmanship and subcultures. The denim fabric base is decorated with geometrically arranged patterns and vase-like motifs, making it one of the brand’s most distinctive pieces.

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Cuba Shirt Men's Recommended Item 6

FREAK’S STORE’s Cuba shirt is a soft and light cotton linen fabric from South India from South India and woven on an old-fashioned loom for a rustic look and feel. The tucks on the front and back are not separate parts, but are made from the body itself. The reasonable price is a good point.

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Cuba Shirt - Men's Recommended Item 7Schott 'BRAID CUBA SHIRT'

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Cuban Shirt Men's Recommended Item 8 UNITED TOKYO 'Smocking Embroidered Shirt L/S'

The last item introduced here is the modernly reconstructed Cuban shirt from “UNITED TOKYO,” which upholds the “ALL MADE IN JAPAN” policy. The minimalist atmosphere with pockets and decorations purposely stripped away is accentuated by the vertical lines of embroidery. The material is a combed polyester with supple bounce and firmness. It is stretchable, wrinkle-resistant, washable, and quick-drying, all of which make it ideal for everyday use.

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