When René Lacoste introduced the polo shirt to the tennis scene in 1926, he revolutionized sportswear, offering a sleek alternative to the loose-fitting shirts and ties that athletes were stuck with back then. Originally crafted for the court, the polo shirt now embodies a blend of timeless elegance and relaxed sophistication. While it skews casual, it’s a garment steeped in tradition, and it deserves to be worn with care. 😉
Here are five common blunders to avoid when donning a polo shirt - consider these tips your style arsenal.
Popping the Collar
The collar on a polo shirt is designed to lend it the refined air of a dress shirt, serving as one of its standout features. So, let’s ditch the collar antics, shall we? 😢
If you’re looking to style it like Kanye West or David Beckham, know that even they have moved past the popped collar phase. It’s clear: popping your collar doesn't enhance the shirt’s appeal.
Choosing the Wrong Fit
A polo shirt should find that sweet spot - not too tight, not too loose. Whether you're built like a linebacker or more on the slim side, the fit matters. The sleeves should gently hug your biceps without strangling them. Aim for a sleeve length that falls around the midpoint of your bicep or adjusts within a centimeter or so.
Unbuttoning All the Buttons
A polo shirt is the ideal blend of laid-back comfort and polished style. If you’re itching to showcase your chest, save that for a dress shirt with the top couple of buttons undone. Prefer a more understated vibe? Go for a classic crew neck.
For polo shirts, strike a balance. Don't button it all the way up, nor should you go full-on beach mode with all the buttons undone. If your polo has three buttons, keep the top one open while buttoning one or two below it.
Overdoing Prints and Patterns
If your goal is a refined, understated look, stick to solid, simple shirts whenever possible. Avoid getting lost in oversized pockets, massive logos, or loud prints. While they may be trendy, remember that classic styles stand the test of time.
Layering Under a Polo
Layering is an art, but let’s keep it simple: don’t cram anything under your polo shirt 😂.
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