The guayabera and the best tips to wear it with style

The guayabera shirt is the perfect combination of comfort and style, especially when the temperature exceeds 27ºC, as it is a garment that always keeps us cool. Not for nothing is it one of the basics that any man needs for the summer. However, no one can deny that it is a garment that causes a lot of controversy. First of all, there are endless stories about its place of origin and that is why it remains a mystery to this day.

While some claim that its origin lies in our country, specifically in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are many others who state that this light shirt was created in Caribbean countries or even in the Philippines. On the other hand, many men are confused because they just don't know how to use it. They believe that its use is exclusive for a beach wedding and period, stop counting. At once we tell you: BIG MISTAKE.

If you are a follower of men's fashion, surely you have noticed that for several years the guayabera shirt has been gaining prominence in men's wardrobes. Because it's made from cool fabrics like linen and cotton, it's a great fit for hot, tropical climates. It is a must have, if you want to dress formal during the heat, well let's not forget that it is still a shirt (whether with long or short sleeves) that can be buttoned and that gives us a serious and elevated look.

If you have a guayabera hidden in your closet or if you are willing to buy one, there are several points to consider for its correct use:

1. It should not be ultra tight. The cut of the guayabera favors a certain space between the body and the shirt, making it a comfortable and fresh garment.
2. It is not used with jacket or tie. It covers the etiquette requirements on its own. You don't need anything else.
3. It is not tucked in… Because it usually has details on the lower peaks of the garment.

the cloth

Synthetic fabrics not only look bad, they are also somewhat uncomfortable and generate more heat. To avoid sweating a lot, the recommended ones are linen or linen-cotton blends. In addition to being the most common, they have a better fall. NOTE: The best quality linen wrinkles so easily that you probably do just by looking at it.

The colors

1. The everyday: bright and cheerful colors like peach and pastel yellow.
2. The elegant ones: dark tones such as navy blue or military green or opt for sober colors such as light grey.
3. The usual ones: white and beige.

Where to buy it?

The ideal is to have one made to measure and that is why today there are several brands specialized in guayaberas that are dedicated to the exclusive manufacture of this garment. However, there are also several commercial brands such as Mango, Zara or Ermenegildo Zegna that already have their own version of this iconic piece.

How to use it?

1. The most obvious: use it to dress in style at a beach wedding. The recommendation is that your guayabera does not have pockets on the chest or on the skirts. Make it long-sleeved and have a double cuff for the cufflinks. White is the most elegant and used color, but you can also lean towards other neutral or pastel tones. Remember that the pants must be linen and matching in light colors (except white) and moccasin-type shoes (not black) without socks. If your event is at night, the most recommended colors are dark. Although we already said it, don't even think about wearing it with a tie and/or jacket.
2. For a work meeting. Corporate meeting in Acapulco and you don't know what to wear? Choose a long-sleeved guayabera (with or without pockets) in white or light tones and combine it with dark chinos.
3. For an informal event. The best decision will be those with short sleeves, as they are the most comfortable. Whatever color you use, be it pastel, bright or neutral, you must keep in mind that they must match the pants you are wearing.