Elvis Presley: Blue Hawaii Style, 1961

1 May 2023

The 1961 film ‘Blue Hawaii’ not only signalled a defining moment in the King of Rock and Roll’s legendary career, it also provided the Pretty Green design team with the style inspiration behind our new Pretty Green X Elvis collaboration. Throughout the film the iconic Mr Presley (AKA Chad Gates) can be seen in a variety of shirts that each perfectly match the tropical location and feel good vibes of what would go on to be his most popular on screen role.


Having earned its place in popular culture, this sun soaked film also brought a much more laid back and colourful look to a new generation of young Americans. All of whom were keen to enjoy their leisure time dressed like their rebellious rock and roll hero rather than Mom and Dad. Let us take you through some of the key pieces from this exclusive new collection.




1. THE STRIPED POLO


Alongside denim and (blue) suede shoes, the striped polo was a key part of Elvis’ rebellious look during the early days of his career. Eschewing the formal suit and tie combination of the day, this sporty open-buttoned look really ruffled feathers amongst parents whilst simultaneously sending their teenage kids wild with excitement. Featuring branded corozo buttons and Elvis signature embroidery to the chest, Pretty Green’s take on this Ivy League classic has been constructed from a soft cotton jersey with a button down collar.






2. THE CAMP COLLAR HAWAIIAN SHIRT


Originally known as the Aloha Shirt, the Hawaiian Shirt first became popular with servicemen who were stationed on the islands before becoming the ultimate fashion statement for the newly emerging surf scene of the early sixties. Inspired by the shirts worn in the film, the Pretty Green design team have worked on several different bold and colourful prints using a range of floral and paisley patterns. Each of the shirts also feature relaxed and unstructured camp collars alongside a single chest pocket and branded mother of pearl buttons.








3. THE TOWELLING POLO SHIRT


As with the Hawaiian Shirt, leisure and sportswear made from sumptuous towelling material first became popular with jet-setting tourists in the Polynesian islands during the 1950s. Initially worn over bathing suits, the luxurious look gained popularity with both American playboys as well as British modernists. Inspired by the ones worn by Elvis, the Pretty Green Towelling Polo features a slim fit with an open ‘V’ neck collar and an embroidered signature just above the chest pocket.




Shop the full collection now online and in-store