When it comes to men’s fashion, polo shirts are undeniably a wardrobe staple and timeless piece. They are dressier and classier than the basic t-shirt and given the many variations you can find; they can be used for several occasions. With the collar, buttons, and sleeves, you can never go wrong with the classic polo shirt. Whether you are going for a casual or more polished look, you can style the piece and turn it into a suitable outfit.
With the many men’s polo shirts to choose from, it can be tricky to shop for them. As versatile as they can be, they also come in varying styles, colours, fabrics, and fits; so much so that you have to take your time choosing the right pieces. So, check out this quick guide to make the decision much easier and simpler!
- Fit
Much like other clothes, the key to wearing a polo shirt is to get one with the right fit for you. No matter what design, style, or colour you end up choosing, these will not be appropriately highlighted if you get a very loose fit. This is one of the reasons why some choose to get custom fits if they have to wear polo shirts for important events.
The first consideration would be length since men’s polo shirts are designed differently, and sizes can cause differences in length. Generally, the bottom hem should not go lower than halfway down your pants’ back pockets but should also not be higher than the hip. Your goal is to find a shirt that you can tuck in comfortably if needed, but also one that can be worn untucked without looking too long or loose.
- Sleeves
The second consideration would be the sleeves. Short sleeve polos give off a more casual look, and long sleeve polos are more suitable for colder months and formal occasions. Short sleeves should hit around midway down your bicep, while long sleeves should be no more than ⅔ of the upper arm. As a whole, the shirt should fit well, but make sure it is not skin tight.
- Fabric
Fabric choice can also be difficult, but this can affect the quality of your shirt. Blended fabrics contain a mix of durable synthetics and typically come at an affordable price. However, they are not the most comfortable and may be sensitive to sweating.
Pure cotton is a top choice for many since it offers breathability, moisture-wicking capabilities, and durability. While cotton polo shirts are the most popular in the market, they still vary in quality since there are different kinds of cotton. For example, cheaper variants like short-staple cotton will be comfortable but can also lead to pilling after a few uses. Naturally, more expensive cotton will lead to better quality shirts.
Polyester, on the other hand, is resistant against stains and shrinking. However, it is not the most comfortable fabric since it does not offer much breathability and can be prone to sweating. Generally, polyester is not the best fabric for polo shirts, so it is recommended that you opt for other fabrics.
Buying a polo shirt is much more challenging than it sounds, but with the right criteria in mind, you can find the right pieces to add to your wardrobe. While polo shirts are highly versatile and fashionable, they may not look the best if you choose the wrong fit or fabric.