A polo shirt is the most versatile shirt model any man can have in their wardrobe. From sporting attire to leisurewear, polo shirts can be paired with many wardrobe items. Before we get to our guide for the best polo shirt for men models and features, first let’s look at the origins of the polo shirt.
The polo shirt design we know today, also known as a golf shirt or tennis shirt, was invented in the early 20th century by French tennis player René Lacoste. He designed a lightweight, short-sleeved shirt with a buttoned placket and collar, which he began wearing on the tennis court. The shirt quickly became popular among tennis players, and later golfers, as it was comfortable and allowed for a full range of motion. The shirt was eventually named the "polo shirt" due to its popularity among polo players, although it was not originally designed for that sport. Over time, the polo shirt has become a staple in casual and business casual attire, and it is now worn by people of all ages and professions.
What is the Polo Shirt Etiquette
There are a few rules to wearing a polo shirt that will keep you looking stylish rather than sloppy.
Don’t Layer The Polo Shirts
Polo shirts are typically worn as a standalone piece of clothing, rather than as a layering piece. The classic look of a polo shirt is a collared, button-up shirt worn with a pair of slacks or khakis. Layering a polo shirt under a sweater or jacket can detract from the clean, classic look of the shirt and is generally not considered good etiquette. Additionally, layering a polo shirt can make it appear too bulky and lose its elegant fit. Wearing a polo shirt on its own, with the collar popped, can create a polished and put-together look that is appropriate for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
Wear Them Fitted Rather Than Tight
When wearing a polo shirt, it is important to ensure that the shirt fits well. A properly fitting polo shirt should be fitted, but not tight. It should be snug enough to accentuate the wearer's shape, but not so tight that it is uncomfortable or restrictive. A polo shirt that is too loose will also look unkempt, and may also create an unflattering appearance.
A good rule of thumb is to select a size that allows you to comfortably move your arms and shoulders without the fabric pulling or bunching. Also, the collar should lay flat against the neck and not gap open.
Consider Your Height and Proportions
When selecting a polo shirt, it is important to consider your height and proportions in addition to the fit. A shirt that is the right size in terms of width and length can still look ill-fitting if it is not proportionate to your body.
For example, a taller person may find that a regular-length polo shirt does not fully cover their torso, while a shorter person may find that a tall-length polo shirt hangs too low. Additionally, a person with a longer torso may find that a regular-length polo shirt rides up and exposes their waistline, while a person with a shorter torso may find that a long-length polo shirt bunches up at the waist.
It is a good idea to try on different lengths and styles of polo shirts to find the one that fits your body best. Tailoring a shirt to your exact measurements is also an option if you want to ensure the perfect fit.
Popping The Collar Trend is Over
Popping the collar on a polo shirt is a fashion trend that has come and gone over the years. While it may have been popular in the past, it is generally considered poor etiquette to pop the collar on a polo shirt today.
Popping the collar can create an arrogant or overly casual look that is not appropriate for many occasions. It can also make the shirt appear too bulky and lose its elegant fit. Additionally, it can cause the collar to lose its shape over time.
A polished and put-together look is achieved by keeping the collar laying flat against the neck, this can be achieved by making sure that the collar is not too tight around the neck and the collar is not pulling up. A well-fitting, properly ironed polo shirt can create a classic and sophisticated look without the need to pop the collar.
Polo Shirts Don’t Go Well With Blazers
Polo shirts are considered to be casual or semi-casual attire, and as such, they are not typically worn with a blazer. A blazer is a more formal piece of clothing that is typically worn with dress pants or a suit. Pairing a polo shirt with a blazer can create a mismatch of formality levels and can appear uncoordinated or inappropriate for the occasion. A sports coat is a more casual alternative to a blazer, it is less formal and can be paired with a polo shirt to give a more polished look.
You Can Tuck Your Polo in If the Situation is Appropriate
In general, a polo shirt should be worn untucked when it is being worn as a casual or semi-casual attire. However, there may be situations where tucking in your polo shirt is appropriate. For example, if you are wearing a polo shirt to a more formal occasion, such as a wedding or a business meeting, it is best to tuck it in. This can create a more polished and put-together look that is more appropriate for the occasion. Additionally, if you are wearing a polo shirt that is too long and falls below the hips, tucking it in can help to create a more proportionate and streamlined look. However, a tucked-in shirt that is too tight can create a bulky or unflattering appearance.
You can always check out our Sacoor Brothers stores or simply visit at www.sacoorbrothers.com to explore the best options for polo shirts that will give you the ultimate comfort and style.
