How to Wear a Polo Shirt?

It polo shirt is a classic that every man should have in his wardrobe. It is versatile, stylish and can be worn casually or dressed up. But how do you really wear a polo shirt properly? In this blog we delve deep into the world of polo shirts and give you tips and tricks to wear them correctly. And as icing on the cake, you will discover a surprising fact about the polo shirt at the end. So read on!

What is a polo shirt?

A polo shirt is a knitted shirt with a collar, usually with short sleeves and three buttons on the front. It was originally designed for tennis players in the 1920s, but it soon became popular with other sports such as polo (hence the name) and golf. Today it is a favorite item of clothing for all kinds of occasions.

Different styles of polo shirts

1. Casual Polo: This is the most common style and perfect for everyday wear. Combine it with jeans or chinos for a relaxed look.
2. Formal Polo: These polos are made of high-quality materials such as merino wool or silk and often have a tighter fit. They can be worn under a blazer for a smart-casual look.
3. Sporty Polo: Ideal for active pursuits, made from breathable fabrics such as polyester or a cotton blend. Wear these during exercise or an active day outside.

Tips for wearing a polo shirt

1. Fit: Make sure your polo fits properly. It should be tight enough to accentuate your physique, but loose enough to be comfortable. The sleeves should fall halfway between your biceps and the bottom of the polo should reach no further than halfway between your back pockets.

2. Collar: The collar of your polo must be neat. Avoid curly or stand-up collars. An ironed collar gives a neat look.

3. Layers: Polo shirts can easily be layered. Wear a cardigan or blazer over your polo for a more dressed-up look. Make sure that the collar of the polo stays in place under the layers.

4. Color and patterns: Classic colors such as white, navy, and black are always a safe choice. But also dare to experiment with colors and patterns. Stripes, checks or even a subtle print can make your outfit more interesting.

5. Undergarments: Do not wear a t-shirt under your polo shirt. It looks messy and the polo is meant to be worn directly against the skin.

6. Tuck or Untuck?: This depends on the occasion. For a casual look you can wear your polo shirt untucked. For a neater look, you can tuck the shirt into your pants, especially if you combine it with a belt and smart pants.

Styling options

1. Casual Day Out: Combine your polo with light jeans and white sneakers. Add sunglasses for an extra touch.

2. Work or Business Occasion: Wear your polo under a neat blazer, with dark-colored chinos and leather shoes.

3. Sporty look: Choose a sporty polo and combine it with joggers or sports shorts and your favorite sports shoes.

Caring for your polo shirts

To keep your polo shirts in top condition, follow these simple tips:

1. Washing instructions: Always follow the washing instructions on the label. Most polos can be washed in the washing machine, but some materials such as merino wool require hand washing.
2. Drying: Avoid using a dryer as this can damage and shrink the fabric. It is better to let your polos air dry.
3. Ironing: Iron your polo shirt at a low temperature to keep the collar and body neat.

Surprising fact

Did you know that the famous crocodile logo on the Lacoste polo shirt actually comes from the nickname of the founder, René Lacoste? He was known as "The Crocodile" because of his fierce playing style on the tennis court. This logo became one of the first brand emblems to appear on a garment.

Conclusion

The polo shirt is a versatile and timeless piece of clothing that every man should own. Whether you go for a casual, formal or sporty look, there is always a way to wear your polo shirt in style. Don't forget to pay close attention to the fit, collar and layers for the perfect outfit.

At EcoGents we have a wide range vintage and second hand polos for men. Visit our store in Tilburg or shop online in our webshop for the best deals and unique pieces. Discover your perfect polo at EcoGents!