THE JOURNAL
Most dress codes tend to loosen up come summer. While this is largely a cause for celebration, it does come with its own predicaments. Such as: what on Earth do you wear when a plain T-shirt is too casual, but a button-up shirt too formal? Enter the polo shirt – a versatile, now-classic silhouette that has cemented itself as a bona fide smart-casual staple of men’s style since it was first popularised in the 1920s. Aside from instantly elevating any outfit without feeling too stuffy, the polo shirt is a subtle way to mix things up a bit and play with textures and depth. Here are some of our favourites, but there are plenty more good ones where these come from.
01. The everyday Mr P. style
Mr P.’s collections are designed with seasonality in mind but crafted for longevity – which means that you’ll be able to wear this classic polo for many summers to come. The tactile organic-cotton piqué taps into the silhouette’s sporting roots, while a flat camp collar and single button make it date night or indeed work-party appropriate.
02. The sun deck-ready Missoni polo
Since its introduction in the 1960s, Missoni has made its knitwear “space dye” technique something of a calling card. The resulting tonal blue, purple and grey mottled effect of this polo shirt recalls the shades of the sea, so it sure won’t look out of place on a yacht in the Med this summer.
03. The preppy Thom Browne pick
Designed in signature Thom Browne style – with a sharp collar and four collegiate stripes on the left sleeve – this polo shirt will add a touch of visual and textural interest to your summer outfits. Be it the contrasting burgundy-on-white colourway, or the Milano stitch, which gives it a nuanced yet smooth finish.
04. The retro Gucci shirt
05. The Rhude team rep
Rhude’s polo shirt is a stylish way to hop on the retro football trend without wearing an actual kit. It comes courtesy of brand founder Rhuigi Villaseñor’s collaboration with Como 1907, the Italian Serie A football club, which he became chief brand officer of last season. Wear yours with faded jeans and low-profile sneakers.
06. The Row’s minimalist must-have
Nobody does understated luxury quite like The Row. So, if you’re into the kind of pared-back yet luxe staples that truly transcend trends and seasons, the New York-based brand should be your go-to. This polo shirt is a case in point – the wool blend is light and breathable, while the open placket gives it a relaxed, contemporary feel.
07. The AMI PARIS smart long-sleeve style
AMI PARIS’ wool and silk-blend polo is the kind of thing you can throw on with any pair of trousers and immediately look more expensive. Thanks to its light handle and refined design, it will smarten up casual shorts and jeans. Equally, it will tone down tailored trousers. A genius trans-seasonal piece, too, knot it over your shoulders on vacation, then layer it beneath a blazer once you’re back in the office.
08. The Frescobol Carioca sand-hued version
If you’ve got a beach getaway on the cards, it’s only right you pick up a staple that goes well with your surroundings, both in colour and handle. The piqué weave of this Horacio polo shirt, achieved with a light blend of modal and linen, will keep you cool – and smart – even in the scorching heat. Plus, this piece meets our Consciously Crafted criteria, putting the planet first.
The people featured in this story are not associated with and do not endorse MR PORTER or the products shown