A polo shirt is essential for every man's wardrobe and can be worn in various ways. Men should own at least one black or navy blue polo shirt to facilitate a lean and robust wardrobe.
Most men consider polo shirts a spring and summer garment or something for business casual events. This classic wardrobe staple is extremely versatile. With the ever-growing variations of polos offered nowadays, virtually limitless options are available to men of any style preference for wearing and enjoying this timeless shirt.
UNDERSTANDING POLO SHIRTS
A QUICK HISTORY
The polo shirt has a fascinating history that may surprise you. It all began in 19th-century India, where the game of Polo was adopted by England during the colonial period. When Polo made its way over to Europe in 1871, it gained substantial popularity worldwide, and the need for maintaining proper attire and etiquette became crucial.
Initially, players wore shirt-and-jacket uniforms, which was not practical. This led to the evolution of uniforms for Polo players to provide more mobility while maintaining a professional look. The original Polo shirts from India did not resemble the ones we are familiar with today, but the Europeans first introduced a collar to their shirts, which would serve as a stepping stone to the polos we enjoy today.
Later, an American tailor named John E. Brooks of the famed Brooks Brothers encountered the shirt while traveling in England. He brought the inspiration back to America and patented the name, creating the first "button-down polo shirt" in 1896; however, the story doesn't end there.
In 1929, a French tennis player named Rene Lacoste developed and wore the classic short-sleeve Pique polo shirt we know and love today. Lacoste's nickname was "Crocodile," which led to the creation of the classic Lacoste polo and the iconic crocodile logo. Although the shirt was originally designed for tennis, it gained popularity among Polo players worldwide, becoming a staple uniform.
The breathable Pique fabric polo shirt by Lacoste became widely popular during the 1930s, selling over 300,000 shirts each year. Over three decades later, Polo Ralph Lauren launched its version of the Pique polo shirt, gaining a similar cult following.
FABRICS & FITS
Polos are available in various fabrics, including natural and synthetic materials. Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and linen are often breathable and comfortable, making them ideal for summer. Perhaps the most popular and traditional fabric is a double-weave cotton blend called Pique, which is included in Lacoste's original design.
A polo shirt should fit well for both style and comfort. It should be close-fitting but not too tight. The shoulder seams should sit right at the edge of the shoulder bone, and if the shirt has short sleeves, they should end around the middle of the biceps. When viewed from the front, the length of the polo shirt should fall around the mid-crotch area.
TYPES OF POLO SHIRTS
Pique (Left), Performance (Center), Sweater (Right)
With the advancements in modern technology, there are numerous options available for polo shirts these days. These include classic Pique, various types of cotton, synthetic (performance) blends, and even heavier sweater polos that provide extra warmth while retaining the iconic look of a polo shirt.
12 POLO SHIRT OUTFIT IDEAS
OUTFIT #1: GREEN POLO SHIRT, BROWN JACKET & CHINOS
This outfit features a green performance polo, brown Harrington jacket, white chinos, and loafers. It is perfect for spring days when there is a chance of gusty wind or rain.
OUTFIT #2: WHITE POLO SHIRT, BLACK JACKET & CHINOS
This outfit resembles the previous one but includes a white Pique polo shirt, black Harrington jacket, green chinos, and German Army Trainer sneakers (GATs). It is excellent for the spring season and for staying warm and dry.
OUTFIT #3: WHITE POLO SHIRT, NAVY BLAZER & CHINOS
This look is quintessential business casual. It is perfect for spring and summer days at the office (provided that it fits appropriately into your dress code). Of course, pay attention to the choice of fabric, as you might want to opt for something breathable during the warmer months of the year.
OUTFIT #4: NAVY POLO SHIRT, RAIN JACKET & GREEN CHINOS
Wearing a polo shirt under a raincoat is a great choice, especially during spring showers. I love pairing blue and green colors, and the inclusion of the leather white sneakers elevates this simple look to a whole new level.
OUTFIT #5: GREEN POLO SHIRT, CHINO SHORTS & GATS
Here's an example of how to appear a bit more polished and less casual: Tuck in your polo shirt, wear a stylish straw fedora, and opt for more distinctive footwear. Furthermore, pairing colors that complement each other always makes a difference. When in doubt, stick to neutral colors for your outfits (trust me).
OUTFIT #6: NAVY POLO SHIRT, WHITE JEANS & LOAFERS
Navy and white create timeless combinations. I've paired a Pique polo shirt with denim jeans to add flair and visual interest. To complete this stylish look, I've included chocolate leather loafers and a matching leather belt.
OUTFIT #7: BLUE POLO SHIRT, CHINO SHORTS & SNEAKERS
Monochromatic pairings simplify things, and a blue-on-blue combination is a timeless classic. This look is perfect for sunny summer days and great for beach gatherings. Add sunglasses and a hat, and you're ready to step out in style.
OUTFIT #8: BLACK POLO SHIRT, GREEN CHINOS & GATS
Black and green are great colors to pair together. Don't dismiss a pair of green pants until you've tried them. The results can be pretty stylish. Adding GAT sneakers elevates this look, in my opinion. Perfect for a summertime stroll or a night out with friends.
OUTFIT #9: GRAY LONG-SLEEVE POLO SHIRT & CHINO SHORTS
With its deep gray long-sleeve polo shirt, this outfit perfectly embodies a seamless transition from summer to fall: effortless, adaptable, and timeless.
OUTFIT #10: GREEN POLO SHIRT, NAVY HARRINGTON & CHINOS
This outfit is perfect for the autumn months and is a great example of a classic and timeless way for a gentleman to dress. It is the third outfit on this list that features a classic Harrington jacket. Harringtons and polos are a perfect match, like peanut butter and jelly. Pair it with some classic khaki chinos, timeless shades, and elegant suede boots, and you'll be ready to look cool anywhere you go.
OUTFIT #11: NAVY POLO, BROWN LEATHER JACKET & WHITE JEANS
Pique Polo
This is one of my favorite ways to wear a polo for the fall. Leather jackets in various tones of brown look fantastic with a classic navy Pique polo shirt. Depending on your preference, you can choose between traditional leather and suede. Including white jeans makes the outfit even bolder and more sophisticated. It's perfect for autumn date nights with that special woman in your life.
OUTFIT #12: LONG-SLEEVE SWEATER POLO & CORDUROY PANTS
A sweater polo isn't essential for every man's wardrobe, but it can be a great addition when the weather is cooler in the fall and winter. Depending on where you live, it could elevate your style to new heights while adding extra warmth. Pairing it with unique fabrics like corduroy and suede can make you look even more stylish.
PERFECT ALL YEAR LONG
Every man should have at least one polo shirt in his closet—of course, the more, the better. Regardless of the season, there is a type of polo for everyone. However, it's essential to choose wisely, as not all polos are created equal.
When in doubt, stick to the basics. Black, navy blue, earthy green, white, or steely gray are often good choices, especially in a Pique fabric. I hope these polo outfit ideas have given you an idea of the numerous options available with this classic menswear staple.
