The Polo Shirt is an indispensable garment in any man’s daily wardrobe. Depending on its design, it can be worn in many combinations, from casual to business casual. Believe it or not, the shirt began being used in the second half of the 1800s by enthusiasts of equestrian sports (polo). Since then, this new piece—initially cut loose from cotton—has gone on to conquer the world.
In 1933, tennis player René Lacoste first launched the collared polo shirt on the market. Initially, this type of shirt was monochrome (white) and worn with the collar up—a style that is making a comeback today. From the polo shirt, the polo blouse emerged in the 1950s. By the 1960s, it became popular streetwear thanks to printed slogans. Since the 1990s, brands consistently at the top of the global polo shirt market include Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, and U.S. Polo Assn, while for a more exclusive clientele, Giorgio Armani, John Smedley, and James Perse stand out.
In today’s article, we’ll reveal 3 ways you can incorporate the polo shirt into your outfit for an unmistakable look. The third one will even surprise you!
Polo Shirt with Pants
This is the most common combination in the warm season—and probably why many men get it wrong. The simpler a combination seems, the more secrets it hides. Tip #1: avoid wearing a polo shirt with shorts anywhere but the beach! Secret #2: the best options are washed jeans, chinos, and even loose-cut dress pants. Suggestion #3: if you tuck the shirt into your pants, avoid a belt as much as possible. Idea #4: despite the temptation, don’t wear the collar popped up! Recommendation #5: steer clear of overly tight shirts, oversized logos, or bright colors like candy pink, electric blue, or neon green.
Polo Shirt with a Blazer
Remember: if you have an elegant or overly extravagant blazer in your wardrobe that you’re too timid to wear, just pair it with a polo shirt underneath! It instantly transforms an attention-grabbing outfit into something wearable. Add your favorite pair of jeans and some brown suede loafers—or white sneakers—and you’re good to go! For a casual look, it’s more stylish to wear the shirt over pants, though tucking it in is also acceptable depending on the occasion. Don’t forget a pocket square or, if desired, a subtle lapel pin.
Polo Shirt with Heavy Outerwear
This may be the chicest pairing. Why? Few men think to combine two garments with such different functionalities! A winter jacket, double-breasted coat, overcoat, or even a trench coat are excellent options for making an impression. Plus, if you know it will be warm where you’re going and you’ll need to remove layers, this mix ensures a refined look outside while preventing overheating indoors.
In conclusion, the polo shirt has earned a lasting reputation. It won’t be dethroned anytime soon from the gallery of truly versatile pieces. It can be worn in both warm and cold seasons. The art isn’t in choosing when to wear it, but in pairing it in ways that highlight your outfit. Have you discovered its full potential?
