Modern fashion is all about rehashing style: taking old ideas and making them new. However throughout the years, the polo has managed to hang on. Although it was never really en vogue (aside from the 70’s), this garment is now no longer reserved for the weekend. More lax dress codes in the work place has allowed for an increased freedom of self-expression through your outfits. The polo is one item that is finding itself now being worn mid-week.
See how you can get more wear out of this classic staple below.
But first, where did the polo come from? There are some common misconceptions on the origination of the garment. It first appeared in Manipur, India back during the 19th century. However, in 1926 Jean Rene Lacoste was actually the first to put a brand on it (you may have seen shirts with an alligator on the chest). Being a polo player himself, the invention came out of a need for practicality. In addition to the redesign, he is also credited for introducing pique cotton which is still in production today. “The Tennis Shirt” quickly became popular with golfers and polo players alike. Ralph Lauren did not invent the polo, but he certainly did popularize it and officially christened the garment during the 1970’s.
Now in 2018, thanks to these predecessors in fashion, sports clothes are no longer reserved for athletes. Polos have found their way into mainstream menswear and they don’t seem to be leaving anytime soon. So how can you incorporate it into your outfits?
The main err in pairing up a polo with a more structured outfit such as a suit is the flimsy collar on the shirt. This creates an instantly more casual effect, but with the right combination you can make it work.
Option #1: Clean but casual
You want to look put together, but still feel comfortable in high temps. Tuck your polo into a pair of fitted chinos or even a linen blend pant. The key to elevating the look is the right accessories. A nice watch with a colorful strap, classic belt, and matching loafers all fit the bill of looking put together without overdoing it. You’d also be able to get away with the right pair of sneakers for this look, if the mood strikes.
Option #2: A step up
Need to step it up a notch? Throw on a blazer or sport coat on top of the outfit idea above. Fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk will work best as they are less structured than traditional wool jackets. We recommend a polo in a neutral color, but keep this rule in mind: if you go light with the shirt, do the opposite for the outerwear (and vice versa). This keeps the look grounded. Always remember no-show socks to maintain the laid-back styling.
Option #3: Let me upgrade you
Depending on your job’s dress code restrictions, this next look may push the traditional envelope. But hey, rules were made to be broken (or at least bent) right? You may have seen an uprising in the “polo with suit” trend thanks to celeb stylists, so we say why not give it a go! A lighter color suit lends itself to being interpreted as more casual right off the bat. Light grey, tan, and even light blue suits are good matches for your polo. Upgrade your look with a nicer link watch, darker brown belt and keep your polo buttoned up (although European styling may have something to say about that last bit). Want to be more adventurous? Tuck in a pocket square and change the belt out for suspenders. Finish off the look with some designer shades or a straw fedora.
You may think polos are thick and heavy, but custom polos from Artful Tailoring are anything but. Our’s are soft and rich, yet breathable with moisture-wicking technology. Place an order today and get styling!