Here’s a style fact no one can deny: polo shirts are a closet staple year-round. They’re timeless, versatile and work for a variety of occasions. Think less casual than a t-shirt but less dressy than a button down. But please don’t pop the collar and put 5 on at a time; follow our breakdown to see your best options and style the look with confidence.
Polo shirts have been around for decades. And, true to its name, the shirt was designed to be worn during polo matches. While the traditional polo uniform during the mid-to-late 1800s included long-sleeve cotton shirts, the polo shirt as we know it today was developed to resolve the common issue players faced when the collar on the original design flapped in their face during the game.
Time has proven this shirt isn’t going out of style anytime soon. Closet get ready: here are a few men’s performance polos and cotton polos you need to add to your shopping list.
Cotton Polo
Considered the OG of polos, the cotton polo is the closet basic you need in a variety of colors. It's like the white tee of the polo family. We recommend always owning core colors like white, navy and black than rotate in pops of color each season. The soft-yet-sturdy cotton fabric and classic fit pair great with khaki pants for business casual attire or with khaki shorts for a weekend look.
Performance Pique Polo
Who says a polo can’t be practical? Whether you’re hitting the links or playing a game of cornhole, rest assured that you’ll look sharp while staying comfortable in a performance pique polo. Why pique: it is the original fabric cotton polo shirts were made from. A pique polo tends to have a bit more structure, meaning it has an inherently polished look. With a woven pattern, the cotton-made fabric has weight and texture without feeling too heavy. With breathable fabric and moisture-wicking technology, this shirt will keep you cool and dry.
Heathered Performance Polo
Heathered - interwoven yarns of mixed colors producing flecks of alternating colors. Add in active features like quick-drying fabric that’s UPF 50+ rated and you get a performance polo perfect for an active day in the sun. Make a move, lose the sweat and up your style.
The Ultimate Performance Polo
Have you heard about brrr cooling technology? We are pretty damn excited about it and for good reason. To get technical about it: Brrr performance polos are built with natural minerals, quick dry fabric, and active moisture wicking. This shirt is proven to keep you cooler and looking (and feeling) fresh all day.
Striped Polo
When a solid seems too basic, opt for a striped polo in vibrant shades. With a classic fit and stretch fabric, a striped polo is a piece that looks both timeless and modern, as well as ultra-comfortable. Don’t underestimate the details on this one, either. A contrasting solid collar makes for an eye-popping accent, or a small chest pocket can give the shirt a slightly more laid-back look. You definitely won’t regret adding this classic piece to your wardrobe.
There are so many ways to style a polo shirt and so many different styles to choose from. From solid performance polos to slim fit polos with modern prints, there’s bound to be a style (or three) that will fit in flawlessly with your wardrobe. The bottom line? With a polo, the possibilities are endless.
