THE JOURNAL
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Our Favourite New-Season Polo Shirts (And What To Wear Them With)
Words by Emma Pradella
10 May 2022
The polo shirt is a mainstay in any self-respecting man’s wardrobe. If any staple deserves the term “essential”, this is surely it. First introduced by the enterprising tennis player Mr René Lacoste in the mid-1920s, it quickly gained popularity among sports enthusiasts and became a favourite of the world’s most stylish men shortly afterwards. But what makes it so enduring? The neat collar? The breathable, subtly textured cotton-piqué, perfect for sunny days? The timeless smart-casual appeal? More likely it’s a combination of all three – and now is the best time to invest. Here are our favourite new-season styles and how to wear them.
01.
The sunny style Mr P. polo
We can’t think of a better way to salute sunnier days than with Mr P.’s yellow polo. The different colour threads will highlight the intricacy of the honeycomb knit and add textural interest to an otherwise simple outfit.
02.
The sky-blue Loro Piana classic
A polo shirt by fabric expert Loro Piana is exactly what we have in mind when we think of elevated basics. Cut from breathable cotton-piqué, this sky-blue shirt has been garment-dyed to enhance the colour and soften the fabric.
03.
The lightweight Jacquemus knit
Do you have a barbecue, beach wedding or poolside lunch on the cards? This Jacquemus polo shirt is the business for just about any summer event. It’s knitted in a slightly loose stitch and finished with contrasting white on the collar and hem, which makes it a little smarter than classic styles.
04.
The enduring Brunello Cucinelli design
Last year, we reported that our appetite for wearing green was expanding and this Brunello Cucinelli polo seems to confirm that the age of sage is still in full swing. If muted colours are your bag, this deserves a spot in your summer wardrobe. You’ll appreciate the breathable fabric and slim fit.
05.
The statement Acne Studios piece
Had this Acne Studios polo shirt been on MR PORTER’s shelves when we compiled 20 fun ways to wear pink, it would definitely have made the cut. Sitting on the more casual side of things (it’s made from cotton-jersey, rather than the standard cotton- piqué), it’s cut for a relaxed fit and garment-dyed to make the hot-pink hue look lightly faded.
