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Types of Polo Shirt Fits, Fabrics, & Styles Explained

The polo shirt has been around for years, but it has undergone many changes. With its origins placing it firmly in the sporting world (source), it has adapted to become a wardrobe staple for both men and women.

Today, we want to discuss how polo shirts have evolved and are now available in various styles, colors, and fits.

Let’s dig in.

Polo Shirt Fit

polo shirt fits

For a polo shirt to look good, it must fit well. This is determined by the cut of the shirt and your body type. When shopping for polos, you’ll find them available in various fits. Here’s a summary of what’s available:

  • Classic Fit: These shirts have a relaxed fit and are neither tight nor baggy. They’re ideal for those who don’t like their clothes to be too fitted.
  • Slim Fit: As the name suggests, slim-fit polos are tighter than classic-fit shirts. They follow the contours of your body and are ideal for men who have a toned physique.
  • Athletic Fit: Athletic-fit polos are designed for, you guessed it, athletes! These shirts are form-fitting and allow freedom of movement, particularly on the shoulders, chest, and arms.

The Honest Tailor Says: When buying a polo shirt, the fit is everything. It doesn’t matter how much you pay or if it is made from the finest materials; it will look bad if it doesn’t fit properly. Try a few different fits before settling on the one that looks best on you.

Neck Style

polo two button placket

Nearly all polos have a signature two or three-button placket at the neck. The most common style is the two-button placket. This is the classic polo shirt style and looks good on everyone. You could try a three-button placket if you want something a little different. However, this style is generally reserved for more formal occasions.

Some trendy polos may have a quarter-zip or mock neck closure. However, these are less common.

The Honest Tailor Says: Go with two buttons; it’s a timeless look that will never go out of style.

Sleeve Length

polo long sleeve

Most polos have short sleeves, but you can also find long-sleeved versions. Long-sleeved polos are ideal for cooler weather or if you want a more formal look.

A long sleeve polo can also be a great addition to your golf wardrobe if you are hitting the links in the early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.

The Honest Tailor Says: Less than 10% of all polos made are long-sleeved, so go for this style if you want something different. Otherwise, stick with the classic short-sleeved look.

Material

Nearly all polos will be made from some knit fabric. The most common materials are cotton, polyester, or a blend of the two. Here’s what you should know:

  • Cotton: This natural fiber breathes well and is very soft. It’s ideal for warmer weather as it will keep you cool and comfortable. While cotton can wrinkle, the heavier weight of the fabric used in polos will reduce wrinkles from occurring.
  • Polyester: This synthetic fiber is very strong and doesn’t wrinkle. It’s a good choice for those who want a low-maintenance shirt. The moisture-wicking properties of polyester make it a good choice for athletes or if you will be spending time outdoors in the heat.
  • Spandex: This may be added to a cotton or polyester shirt to give it some stretch. It’s ideal for those who want a fitted polo as it will conform to your body.

What’s the Deal with Piqué?

Piqué is a weaving style that features raised parallel cords or fine-textured yarns (source). The Piqué weave gives the polo shirt its signature textured look. Piqué is usually made from cotton or a cotton blend and can be either solid-colored or have stripes.

The Honest Tailor Says: If you plan on wearing your polo shirt for casual occasions, then cotton is the way to go. However, if you need a more durable or moisture-resistant shirt for light athletic activities, then polyester is the better choice.

Brands

Here are a few popular brands that make polo shirts:

BrandHeadquartersYear Founded
NikeBeaverton, OR1964
Mizzen+MainDallas, TX2012
AdidasHerzogenaurach1924
Ralph LaurenNew York City, NY1967
EverlaneSan Francisco, CA2010
UNIQLOTokyo1949
LacosteTroyes1933
Tommy HilfigerAmsterdam1985
BonobosNew York City, NY2007
Luca FaloniMilano2014
PercivalLondon2009
ReissLondon1971
Todd SnyderNew York City, NY2011
Peter ManningNew York City, NY2012

If you are looking to add a new polo shirt (or two) to your wardrobe, then be sure to check out our roundup of the best polos for men.

The Honest Tailor Says: Countless brands make polo shirts. It really comes down to personal preference. Do some research and find the brand that fits your style and budget.

Price

Polo shirts are available at a wide range of price points. For example, you can find cheap polos for under $20 or high-end designer shirts that cost over $100. The price will be determined by the quality of the materials, construction, and brand name.

The Honest Tailor Says: When shopping for a polo shirt, focus on the material and fit. A well-made shirt from a mid-range brand will look better than an ill-fitting shirt from a designer label.

How to Wear a Polo Shirt

Polo shirts are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down to suit any. Here are a few tips on how to wear a polo shirt:

  • For a casual look, pair your polo with jeans or shorts.
  • Pair your polo with dress pants or chinos for a more formal look.
  • To dress up your polo, add a blazer or sports coat.
  • To dress down your polo, wear it untucked with shorts or jeans.

Common Questions about Polos

Are Polo shirts still in style?

Yes, polo shirts are still in style. They have been a wardrobe staple for men for over half a century and show no signs of going out of fashion.

Can I wear a Polo shirt to work?

It depends on your workplace. A polo shirt is perfectly acceptable if you have a casual office environment. However, if you work in a more formal setting, you may need to stick to dressier shirts.

How long do polo shirts last?

With proper care, a polo shirt should last you several years. The key is to wash it in cold water and hang it to dry. You should also avoid putting it in the dryer, as this will shorten its lifespan, especially made from synthetic fibers.

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Adam Williams

As the lead editor of Tools of Men, Adam is an expert in all things men's grooming and style. When you don't find him reading up on the latest style trends, he likes to go jogging, attempt to distinguish the differences between IPAs, and play sports with his kids.