How should polo shirts be worn?
Polos have been a staple in men''s fashion for over a century. The collared shirt, featuring a buttoned placket and short sleeves, was invented by French tennis player René Lacoste in 1926. Since then, polo shirts have evolved to become a versatile clothing piece that can be dressed up or down. However, there are still some rules to follow when wearing a polo to look stylish and put-together.
**Fit
The most important aspect of any clothing item is its fit. This is especially true for polo shirts, which can easily look sloppy if too loose or tight. When buying a polo, make sure it fits snugly around your chest and shoulders but is not tight around your stomach. The sleeves should hit at the mid-bicep, and the shirttail should end at the middle of your fly. Avoid polo shirts that are too long or too short, as these can completely throw off the balance of your look.
**Color and Pattern
Polo shirts come in a range of colors and patterns, from solids to stripes to graphics. When choosing a color, consider what will complement the rest of your outfit. Classic hues like navy, white, and black are versatile and easy to match. Brighter colors can add a pop of personality, but be careful not to overload your look with too many bold hues. In terms of patterns, stripes and small prints are the most common and traditional. However, if you want to make a statement, go for a larger or more graphic pattern, but keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the shirt be the focal point.
**Material
Polo shirts are typically made from cotton or a cotton-blend material. While cotton is breathable and comfortable, it can also wrinkle easily. Look for a blend of cotton and synthetic materials like polyester or spandex, which can help the shirt retain its shape and reduce wrinkles. Additionally, a thicker material will look more polished and durable than a thin material.
**Styling
Polo shirts can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual look, pair your polo with chinos or shorts and classic sneakers or loafers. If you want to dress up your polo, opt for trousers or dark jeans and dress shoes. Adding a blazer or cardigan can also elevate your look. When layering, make sure the collar of your polo is neatly visible above the collar of your outerwear.
**Accessories
To add some personality to your look, accessorize your polo shirt with a belt, watch, or bracelet. However, avoid wearing a tie with a polo shirt, as this can look awkward and out-of-place. If you want to wear a jacket over your polo, choose a bomber or unstructured blazer instead of a formal suit jacket.
**Etiquette
While polo shirts are casual in nature, there are a few etiquette rules to abide by when wearing them. First, always tuck in your polo if you are wearing it with dress pants or jeans. This creates a more polished and put-together look. Second, avoid wearing a brand logo that is too prominent or aggressive. Instead, opt for a more subtle or classic logo. Finally, don''t wear a polo shirt to a formal occasion like a wedding or job interview, as this can come across as inappropriate or unprofessional.
In conclusion, polo shirts are a versatile and timeless clothing piece that can work for any occasion. By following these guidelines for fit, color, material, styling, accessories, and etiquette, you can elevate your polo shirt look and feel confident in any setting.
