Designed as a practical shirt for playing tennis in during the 1920s, the polo has been through some transformation. It is now a staple in men's wardrobes all over the world, with it being equally at home for work or play, providing the wearer with the almost perfect smart-casual mix. There are many styles of polo available, and we have highlighted a few of the best looks for you below.
Mod revival
The mods were arguably the first group to really take the polo on as one of their own during the 1960s. Paired with a bomber jacket, turned-up slim jeans and a pair of Dr. Martens, you will have the modern, smart-casual mod look down to a tee. The classic combination pairs navy bomber and dark blue jeans with a red or burgundy polo, but any combination of darker jeans and jacket with a colourful polo should do the trick.
Layers
Whereas a standard tee hides under a warm winter jumper, trying to give everything it has to give through the couple of millimetres protruding at the neckline, the polo shirt is much more in your face and assertive with its collar standing proudly above your sweater. The added coverage for the neck will also be appreciated during winter. A polo works equally well with a cardigan too, with the extra real estate on the chest perfect to showcase the button-up collar of your polo.
Relaxed formality
Instead of wearing a standard long-sleeve button-up shirt every day, a long-sleeved polo shirt could make a refreshing change. The extra fabric creates a layer of understated formality, so it will feel perfectly at home when paired with a dark overcoat and black, polished shoes. This also helps to provide added warmth during the current colder months, without having to resort to layering up as described above.
Draper style
In the last few series of Mad Men, the unconquerable Donald Draper has been spotted swapping his slim-cut suits and tie clips for the humble polo. Usually opting for a blue polo with white trim around the collar and breast pocket, the Don pairs his offering with neutral slacks for summer evening drinks and relaxing away from the office. We can all afford to be a little more like Don, so follow his lead with this look too.
Mod revival
The mods were arguably the first group to really take the polo on as one of their own during the 1960s. Paired with a bomber jacket, turned-up slim jeans and a pair of Dr. Martens, you will have the modern, smart-casual mod look down to a tee. The classic combination pairs navy bomber and dark blue jeans with a red or burgundy polo, but any combination of darker jeans and jacket with a colourful polo should do the trick.
Layers
Whereas a standard tee hides under a warm winter jumper, trying to give everything it has to give through the couple of millimetres protruding at the neckline, the polo shirt is much more in your face and assertive with its collar standing proudly above your sweater. The added coverage for the neck will also be appreciated during winter. A polo works equally well with a cardigan too, with the extra real estate on the chest perfect to showcase the button-up collar of your polo.
Relaxed formality
Instead of wearing a standard long-sleeve button-up shirt every day, a long-sleeved polo shirt could make a refreshing change. The extra fabric creates a layer of understated formality, so it will feel perfectly at home when paired with a dark overcoat and black, polished shoes. This also helps to provide added warmth during the current colder months, without having to resort to layering up as described above.
Draper style
In the last few series of Mad Men, the unconquerable Donald Draper has been spotted swapping his slim-cut suits and tie clips for the humble polo. Usually opting for a blue polo with white trim around the collar and breast pocket, the Don pairs his offering with neutral slacks for summer evening drinks and relaxing away from the office. We can all afford to be a little more like Don, so follow his lead with this look too.
Comments