The camp collar shirt, also known as the Cuban collar or cabana shirt, has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. Originating in Cuba, these shirts were designed to keep men cool in the hot, humid climate. The distinct collar, which lies flat and open, was a departure from the traditional button-down style and allowed for better air circulation.
As the shirt gained popularity, it became associated with the relaxed, vacation-inspired style of the 1950s and 1960s. Hollywood icons like Elvis Presley and Montgomery Clift were often seen sporting camp collar shirts on and off the screen, cementing the style’s place in fashion history. Today, the camp collar shirt remains a summer staple, offering a laid-back, retro-inspired look that’s perfect for warm weather occasions.
What to Look for When Shopping for Camp Collar Shirts
When shopping for the perfect camp collar shirt, consider these key features:
Fabric: Look for lightweight, breathable materials like linen, cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, or blends that will keep you cool and comfortable in warm weather.
Fit: Camp collar shirts typically have a relaxed, slightly boxy fit. Make sure the shirt drapes well without being too loose or tight.
Collar: The signature feature of a camp collar shirt is the open, flat collar. Ensure the collar lies smoothly and doesn’t curl up or appear misshapen.
Prints and patterns: While solid colors are versatile, don’t be afraid to experiment with bold prints, tropical patterns, or unique textures that capture the summer spirit.
Versatility: Consider how the shirt can be styled for various occasions. Many camp collar shirts can be dressed up with slacks or dressed down with shorts for a more casual look.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best camp collar shirts for men this season.
Made in USA
This unique camp shirt from Gitman Vintage features a deadstock Japanese dobby fabric in a rich navy color. The textured material adds visual interest, while the camp collar, short sleeves, and relaxed fit maintain the classic summer style.
The Normal Brand Freshwater Camp Shirt
This camp collar button-up is made from a lightweight cotton-linen blend that’s breathable and comfortable. The clean lines and desert styling add character, while the relaxed fit and straight hem provide an easy-wearing silhouette.
Todd Snyder Sea Soft Irish Linen Camp Collar Shirt
This breathable and versatile linen camp collar shirt is ideal for warmer summer days. The relaxed fit pairs well untucked with chinos or unbuttoned over a tank with shorts for an effortlessly cool look.
Taylor Stitch Tulum Shirt in Midnight Stripe
Crafted from lightweight 4-oz organic cotton, the Tulum shirt embodies the breezy spirit of its Mexican namesake. Eye-catching retro piping details adorn the collar, sleeves, and chest pockets, while the tailored fit and shorter length make it perfect for wearing untucked on sun-soaked adventures.
Banana Republic Soft Camp Shirt
Crafted from a soft jacquard fabric with excellent drape and lightweight feel, this camp shirt is ideal for warm weather. Details include a camp collar, two hip pockets, short sleeves, and a straight hem for a classic, versatile look.
Made in USA
Imogene + Willie The Serra Camp Shirt in Sunbleached Stripe
The Serra Camp Shirt from Imogene + Willie showcases a sunbleached stripe pattern that evokes a vintage, lived-in feel. The lightweight fabric, short sleeves, and relaxed fit make it a comfortable choice for summer, while the unique pattern sets it apart from traditional camp shirts.
Buck Mason Wornwell S/S Camp Shirt
Buck Mason’s take on the classic midcentury style uses lightweight mercerized cotton that’s garment washed for a soft, broken-in feel while maintaining structure. Mother-of-pearl buttons, a spade chest pocket, and clean-finished seams elevate this timeless warm weather essential.
rag & bone Avery Resort Tencel Shirt
The Avery Resort Shirt from rag & bone is made from lightweight and breathable TENCEL™ Lyocell fabric. The embroidered diamond pattern adds a touch of personality, while the camp collar, short sleeves, and relaxed fit create a comfortable and stylish summer look.
Madewell Camp Collar Knit Polo Shirt
This unique take on the camp collar shirt combines the relaxed style with the comfort of a knit polo. The striped pattern adds a touch of nautical flair, while the cotton blend fabric ensures breathability and ease of movement.
Flint and Tinder Dobby Camp Collar Shirt
The Dobby Camp Collar Shirt from Flint and Tinder features a distinctive dobby weave fabric that adds visual interest and texture. The lightweight cotton blend is perfect for summer, and the tailored fit ensures a polished look, whether worn tucked or untucked.
Bonobos Linen Riviera Cabana Shirt
Made from 100% linen, this cabana shirt from Bonobos is a stylish choice for hot summer days. The vibrant sangria color adds a pop of personality, while the camp collar and relaxed fit create a laid-back vibe.
Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Nautical Print Camp Shirt
This classic-fit camp shirt from Ralph Lauren showcases a playful nautical print featuring sailboats and anchors. The lightweight cotton fabric is breathable and comfortable, while the camp collar and short sleeves make it a perfect choice for summer gatherings and beach trips.
Made in USA
Hiroshi Kato The Wrench Jacquard Stripe Shirt in Light Gray
Hiroshi Kato’s take on the classic short-sleeved aloha shirt features a slimmer cut than vintage Hawaiian shirts while still providing enough room for comfort. The intricate but subtle jacquard stripe weave adds style and enhances breathability, while the wooden catseye buttons complete the vacation-ready look.
Everlane Linen Short-Sleeve Camp Shirt
This Everlane camp shirt combines linen’s breathability with a classic black-and-white striped color scheme. Its relaxed fit, short sleeves, and chest pockets with flaps give off a more casual vibe.
Marine Layer TENCEL™ Linen Resort Shirt
This resort shirt from Marine Layer is crafted from a blend of TENCEL™ Lyocell and linen, resulting in a breathable, drape-friendly fabric with a laid-back vibe. The relaxed resort collar and custom prints make it a standout choice for beach days and summer gatherings.
Brooks Brothers Irish Linen Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Sport Shirt
Crafted from premium Irish linen, this Brooks Brothers sport shirt offers a refined take on the camp collar style. The navy color is timeless and versatile, while the short sleeves and relaxed fit ensure comfort in warm weather.
J.Crew Short-Sleeve Textured Cotton Camp-Collar Shirt
Crafted from textured cotton fabric, this J.Crew camp collar shirt offers a subtle twist on the classic style. The khaki color is versatile and pairs well with a variety of summer outfits, while the relaxed fit and short sleeves provide comfort in warm weather.
L.L.Bean Men’s Tropics Shirt, Short-Sleeve Print
Made from a lightweight, quick-drying fabric, this tropical-inspired print shirt from L.L.Bean is perfect for warm-weather adventures. The short sleeves, camp collar, and relaxed fit provide comfort and style, while the unique print adds a touch of personality.
Filson Rustic Short Sleeve Camp Shirt
Filson’s take on the camp collar shirt is designed for rugged outdoor adventures. Made from a durable cotton blend, this shirt features a unique fishing scene from front to back, two chest pockets, and a relaxed fit that allows for easy layering over a t-shirt or henley.
Levi’s Sunset Camp Shirt in Western Toile Vintage Indigo – Blue
Crafted from soft, lightweight, and breathable TENCEL™ Lyocell, this Levi’s Sunset Camp Shirt is a summer essential. The roomy fit, point collar, and short sleeves create a relaxed vibe, while the Western Toile Vintage Indigo print adds a unique touch to this stepped-up alternative to a T-shirt.
Alex Mill Camp Shirt in Madras
Alex Mill’s take on the classic camp shirt features a patchwork of madras plaids, creating a distinctive and eye-catching summer look. The relaxed fit, real shell buttons, and lightweight fabric make it a comfortable choice for warm weather, while the design team suggests double cuffing the sleeves for added style.
Gap Linen-Cotton Shirt
This signature linen-cotton blend shirt from Gap offers a soft hand feel and airy-light texture, making it a naturally cool piece you’ll wear forever. The straight silhouette, classic fit, point collar, short sleeves, and patch pocket at the chest create a timeless and versatile style suitable for various occasions.
Rhone Camp Collar Shirt
Rhone’s Camp Collar Shirt is designed for comfort and style. It features lightweight Italian fabric that’s garment-dyed for a unique look. The relaxed fit, camp collar, and short sleeves provide a laid-back vibe, while the coconut buttons add a touch of detail. This versatile shirt can be dressed up or down, making it a go-to choice for summer.
Outerknown The BBQ Shirt in Marine Tropical Flora
This lightweight button-up from Outerknown is perfect for summer, featuring a relaxed fit, natural corozo nut buttons, and a breathable, buttery-soft organic cotton fabric. The modern cut and tropical flora print add a fresh, new-school vibe to your wardrobe.
This comfortable short-sleeve shirt features a smooth silky jacquard fabric in an eye-catching dark brown floral print. The relaxed fit, resort-style camp collar, and straight hem create a laid-back vibe perfect for summer occasions.
Patagonia Men’s Pataloha® Shirt
Made from 100% organic cotton dobby with a linen-like texture, Patagonia’s Pataloha® Shirt is cool and comfortable in hot and humid weather. The notched collar, coconut buttons, single left-chest pocket, and straight hem with side vents stay true to Hawaiian custom, making it perfect for any celebration.
3sixteen Vacation Shirt in Plum Hand Stitch
3sixteen’s Vacation Shirt is crafted from a lightweight, breathable cotton fabric featuring a unique hand-stitched pattern in a rich plum color. The camp collar, short sleeves, and relaxed fit create a laid-back summer style, while the custom print adds a distinctive touch.
Final Thoughts
Camp collar shirts have surged in popularity this summer, and it’s easy to see why. These versatile, retro-inspired shirts offer a perfect blend of style and comfort, making them a go-to choice for warm weather occasions. Whether you’re dressing up for a summer wedding or keeping it casual for a backyard barbecue, a well-chosen camp collar shirt can elevate your look while keeping you cool and comfortable. With a wide range of fabrics, patterns, and styles available from both iconic and emerging brands, there’s never been a better time to add a camp collar shirt to your summer wardrobe rotation.
