Are you wondering if polo shirts are in style? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Polo shirts have been around for over a century and have come in and out of style over the years.
For many people, polo shirts are a wardrobe essential that is worn on nicer occasions or as apart of a business casual outfit. With trends always coming and going, it can be hard to know if Polo shirts are in still style.
Which raises the question…
Are Polo Shirts in Style?
In short, yes polo shirts in style. Men can wear polo shirts to work, on nice occasions and on the golf course. For years, polo shirts have been a men’s wardrobe essential as they look good and they’re comfortable. Polo shirts come in a variety of colors, which makes them easy to wear with different outfits.
In this post, I share the history of the polo shirt, what to look for in a polo shirt and the 5 best polo shirts for men.
This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The History of The Polo Shirt
The original polo shirt was created by seven-time french Grand Slam champion René Lacoste. Originally, tennis players wore “tennis whites” which were long sleeve button-up shirts.
However in 1926, René Lacoste created a loosely-knit, cotton piqué, short sleeved shirt. This was the first polo shirt and it changed the way tennis players dressed forever.
The polo shirt was more breathable, comfortable and durable than the traditional tennis whites.
In 1927, René Lacoste placed a crocodile emblem on the left breast of all of his shirts. This is how the iconic look of the Lacoste polo shirt was created.
in 1933, after René Lacoste retired from playing professional tennis, he teamed up with his good friend x and began marketing his polo shirt.
They created the company Chemise Lacoste and began producing Lacoste polo shirts with the iconic crocodile on the left side of the shirt.
From there, the polo shirts continued to gain popularity in Europe as well as North America. Polo shirts were worn by tennis players, golfers and polo players.
Now, some of the most popular brands in the world make polo shirts. Brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Burberry, Hugo Boss and more all design polo shirts.
What to Look For in a Polo Shirt
1. Fit & Style
When it comes to buying a polo shirt, the fit and style are super important. There are a few different styles of polo shirts like long-sleeved polos, zipper polo shirts and the classic polo shirt.
Polo shirts will either be made in a classic fit or a slim fit. If you prefer a tighter fitting shirt, go for the slim fit whereas if you prefer the look of a classic polo shirt, a classic fit is a good choice.
Another thing to consider when buying a polo shirt is that every brand has a different fit. Certain brands may fit tighter around the arms, shoulders and chest, whereas other brands will have a looser fit.
If you’re unsure which polo shirt will look best on you, try a few different styles and brands. This way, you will be able to buy the polo shirt that fits you best.
2. Color & Design
Another thing to consider when buying a polo shirt is the color and design. Some men prefer the classic look of a white polo and others like the look of a polo shirt with vertical stripes.
Most clothing brands that make polo shirts have a wide range of colors and designs. The color and design that you choose is all based on preference since polo shirts have a timeless look.
A polo shirt with neutral colors is the most versatile shirt a man can own. A polo shirt looks great with dress pants or jeans and it’s perfect for casual occasions or nicer occasions where you have to dress up a little more.
If you don’t have any polo shirts in your wardrobe, getting a polo shirt that is a neutral color is your best bet. This way you will have a versatile shirt in your wardrobe.
Related: What Not to Wear For Skinny Guys – 10 Fashion Mistakes to Avoid
3. Material
The material of your polo shirt is another thing to consider. If you’re wearing your polo shirts for nicer occasions, then a cotton polo shirt will be good.
If you plan on wearing the polo shirt for golfing, tennis or another sport, you’re going to want a polyester polo shirt. A polyester polo shirt dries fast and is good for if you sweat a lot.
A polyester polo shirt will be comfortable to wear in casual situations. If you don’t already have a polyester polo shirt, you may want to get one as they are perfect for a hot and sunny day.
4. Brand & Price
It’s no secret that the brand and price of the polo makes a huge difference in the quality of the shirt. As someone who has owned both affordable and expensive polos, I can say that there is a huge difference in the fit and quality.
A cheaper polo shirt won’t last as long and the collar will get ruined after being washed a few times. Whereas a polo shirt from a quality or luxury brand like Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste will last longer.
Lacoste and Ralph Lauren polo shirts are my favorite as the quality is really good, the color doesn’t fade and they are super comfortable. If you’re someone who wears polo shirts a lot, paying the extra money for a nicer brand is very much worth it.
There are other brands that make good polo shirts, however in my experience they just don’t last the test of time. If you’re on a tighter budget, Nautica is a decent alternative.
Related: Is Polo in Style or Is the Brand Passed it’s Time?
AMAZON PRIME FREE TRIAL
Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, check out the FREE 30 day trial.
Amazon Prime 6 Month Trial for Students – This offer comes with exclusive deals and promotions for college students.
5 Best Polo Shirts For Men
1. Polo Ralph Lauren
If you’re looking for a polo shirt that will last for a long time, check out the Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Shirt. This shirt is super recognizable and has a very nice fit.
When it comes to men’s polo shirts, Ralph Lauren makes some of the best ones on the market. The shirts come in many different colors and they are super comfortable.
Recommended: Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Shirt (see price on Amazon)
2. Lacoste Polo Shirt
When you buy a Lacoste Polo Shirt, not only are you wearing a stylish shirt, you are also wearing a piece of history. Lacoste makes the perfect polo shirt as it fits amazingly and it’s a recognizable brand.
If you’re looking to make a statement, wearing a Lacoste Polo is a good idea. Wearing a Lacoste polo shirt represents wealth and success.
Recommended: Lacoste Polo Shirt (see different colors on Amazon)
3. Nautica Polo Shirt
If you’re on a tighter budget, check out the Nautica Polo Shirt. Nautica is a well known brand that makes nice clothing at reasonable prices.
The Nautica Polo Shirt is 62% cotton and 38% polyester which makes it a very soft shirt. This shirt has a classic fit so if you like the classic look of a polo shirt, you will love the Nautica Polo Shirt.
Recommended: Nautica Polo Shirt (see over 3,800 positive reviews on Amazon)
4. Hanes Polo Shirt
The Hanes Polo Shirt is an extremely affordable polo shirt. If you don’t care about the brand and you’re just trying to add a polo shirt to your wardrobe, the Hanes Polo Shirt is a great option.
This shirt is machine washable and comes in many different colors. This is a great shirt to wear under a bomber jacket or to wear with jeans or dress pants.
Recommended: Hanes Polo Shirt
5. Nike Polo Shirt
In recent years, Nike been known for making some of the best polos for golfing and tennis. If you’re into sports, a Nike Polo Shirt is a great option.
These shirts are made with 100% polyester which makes it more breathable and comfortable to wear while playing sports.
Recommended: Nike Polo Shirt (see different colors on Amazon)
Related & Popular Posts:
- The Best Men’s Shoes – Complete Guide
- Why Girls Like Guys with Long Hair
- Best Sweatpants for Big & Tall Guys – Complete Guide
- 25 Things Guys Find Attractive in a Girl – Guys Perspective
- Gifts That Gen Z Actually Wants in – By a Gen Zer
Final Thoughts on Are Polo Shirts in Style?
Polo shirts are a wardrobe essential that every guy should own. The polo shirt has been around for nearly a century and has been a casual staple in many men’s wardrobe for the longest time.
Not only are polo shirts being worn by men on casual occasions, they are still being worn on the tennis court by the biggest tennis stars in the world. This goes to show that polo shirts are classic pieces that are always going to be in style.
In this post, I shared the history of the polo shirt, what to look for in a polo shirt and the 5 best polo shirts for men.
Do you like the look of a polo shirt? Please let me know in the comments below.