Tucked away in a corner of a parking lot off 17th Street in Costa Mesa, right behind a record store and a local tavern, is a hidden gem: Dirt Cheap Plants & Hawaiian Shirts. Run by Nik Wassilew, this shop is more than just a store – it’s a celebration of heritage, style, and the spirit of Aloha.
Born to Russian immigrants who settled in Orange County in the 1950s, Nik’s early years blended cultural richness with California cool. Growing up surfing the legendary waves at Doheny Beach alongside icons like Corky Carroll, Phil Edwards, and Mike Hynson, he naturally embraced a free-spirited lifestyle.
He first stepped into retail at 16, working at Montgomery Ward, and later at Guy Livingston's Fashion Square store in Santa Ana, where he discovered our Aloha shirts. Inspired by his father, a horticulture professor, Nik launched his own plant and flower business in the 1980s. But his love for surfing and his knack for spotting unique finds never faded.
Over the years, Nik became a regular at swap meets, always on the lookout for rare Spooners. His growing collection led him to add a dedicated rack of Spooners to his shop. Over time, he realized the shirts were more popular than the plants, and the store transitioned into a mecca for those who love vintage Aloha shirts.
When asked about where he finds his Spooners, Nik said, "I work really hard at it. Also, many of my long-time customers have written me into their wills, knowing I’ll be a good steward for their Spooner collection."
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out in the world of Aloha shirts, be sure to stop by Nik’s shop if you love vintage Spooners and the stories behind them. It’s your chance to pick up a piece of our history!
Visit Nik: Dirt Cheap Plants & Hawaiian Shirts
440 E 17th St. Ste A, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Open Daily: 10 AM – 6 PM
Call: (949) 331-2803
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