What is a Guayabera — and why my husband wanted one.
The Guayabera is a lightweight, breathable shirt — usually made from cotton or linen — featuring distinctive vertical pleats (often called alforzas), a straight hem to be worn untucked, and several large patch‑pockets. Depending on the version, Guayaberas may have short or long sleeves; many are in light colors (like white or pastel), though vibrant modern interpretations are increasingly common. Because of its comfort and style, the Guayabera works beautifully in warm climates or especially for people that run warm.
The origins of the Guayabera are a bit hazy — a few legends online include:
One popular story traces it back to 18th‑century rural Cuba: a farmer’s wife sewed extra pockets into her husband’s shirt so he could carry guavas (guayabas) from the field, giving the shirt its evocative name.
Other theories connect the design to Southeast Asia — especially a traditional Filipino shirt, brought to the Americas via Spanish trade routes. Over time, the Filipino design was adapted to local materials and sensibilities.
By the 19th and 20th centuries, the shirt had become common across the Caribbean, Latin America (especially Mexico, the Yucatán, Gulf Coast, and more), and eventually the United States — carried by migration and cultural exchange.
While we have seen them periodically in our travels, we really saw locals wearing them during the parades and festivals here. Peter has really gotten into linen since we spent the summer in Tokyo a few years ago, so we decided to look for one. We began the search in casco viejo and while we found many shops with them, they were pricy! About $200 for a short sleeved nice one. We decided to just keep our eyes out and his birthday was coming up in November. Making the trek out to Albrook mall in search of a black Panama soccer jersey for our son, I came across the guayabera’s shop! Prices here were about $50 cheaper for the same quality product!
After trying on a few, he decided on a long sleeve version with more understated pleating on one pocket and fancy buttons. So, if you are looking for one of these shirts - head out to the mall - it is a short 15 minute uber ride from casco viejo, so even if you are on a cruise for a day-trip, you can make it in plenty of time!
