How to Style Polo Shirts

How to Style Polo Shirts

The polo shirt is one of the most versatile pieces
a man can own. Worn well, it bridges casual, smart casual and even business casual.

We love polos because they adapt so easily: pair one with tailoring for a modern office look, wear it under knitwear when the weather cools, or keep it simple with chinos at the weekend.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to style polo shirts for work, smart casual events, and off-duty days. Proving just how versatile this classic really is.

Why are Polo Shirts a Wardrobe Essential?

The polo shirt is a perfect middle ground: more refined than a T‑shirt, less formal than a dress shirt. It offers:

  • Comfort and breathability
  • Simplicity and polish when styled correctly
  • Flexibility: can lean casual or smart, with minimal adjustment

A well‑chosen polo does a lot of heavy lifting in a wardrobe.

Fit, Fabric & Features to Prioritise

Aspect What to Look For Why It Matters
Fit Slim or tailored through the chest and waist, shoulders aligning with seams; sleeve length hitting mid‑bicep (neither too loose nor too tight); hem length that just covers the belt if tucked, or mid‑hip if worn untucked. Good fit ensures the polo enhances your silhouette rather than looking sloppy.
Fabric Cotton piqué or jersey, knit polos, performance blends; weight matched to the climate - lighter for summer, denser or knit versions for cooler weather. Fabric affects comfort, drape, appearance (knits look richer, piqué holds shape).
Collar & Details Structured collar where needed; neat buttons; minimal branding/logos; good seaming. These details decide whether the look feels smart or too casual. Subtlety often works best.

What to look for in a Polo Shirt?

Colour and texture give your polo personality. Choosing complementary tones in trousers, jackets, or shoes helps pull the outfit together.

  • Classic neutrals: white, navy, charcoal, black. Safe and versatile.
  • Rich / earthy tones: olive, burgundy, rust, deep greens. Great for autumn / winter.
  • Pastels / lighter shades: sky blue, peach, or stone are ideal for spring / summer.
  • Textures & patterns: knit polos, fine stripes, subtle checks or contrast collar/trim. Adds interest.

Polo Shirt Outfit Ideas by Occasion

Occasion Outfit Suggestion Styling Tips
Weekend / Casual Solid or lightly patterned polo and denim jeans or chino shorts with white sneakers or clean casual shoes. Untucked or a light front‑tuck. Keep accessories minimal; favours relaxed, breathable fabrics.
Business Casual / Smart Casual Polo tucked into slim chinos or tailored trousers; optional blazer or unstructured jacket; loafers or suave sneakers. Choose darker colours, minimal prints. Use a belt, and ensure shoes are clean and polished.
Evening / Dressed Up Looks Knit or long sleeve polo in a rich tone (navy, burgundy) and dark trousers with a blazer or leather jacket. Pair with chelsea boots. Avoid loud logos; ensure polish in accessories. Could consider a watch, pocket square or belt as finishing touches.
Transitional Weather / Layering Polo under a lightweight sweater, cardigan, or jacket; or long‑sleeve polo beneath a coat; layer colours/textures so you can adjust for temperature. Let collars show, use layering to balance warmth with polish.

Common Polo Shirt Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

  • Wearing a polo that’s too boxy or too tight. Both extremes kill polish.
  • Overdoing logos or loud prints when a more restrained look would serve better.
  • Choosing the wrong collar type. Floppy collars look messy under jackets.
  • Wearing casual sneakers with smart looks; mismatch in polish level.
  • Keeping the polish. Wrinkles, unkempt collar, messy shoes undermine effort.

Polo Shirt Styling FAQs

Is a polo shirt acceptable in a business casual setting?

Yes, but it should be a fine knit or smooth cotton, in a neutral colour, fitted well, and paired smartly (chinos, clean shoes, perhaps with a blazer). A pique polo is better for smart casual occasions, and sportier polos should be avoided for both business casual and smart casual.

Can I tuck in a polo shirt, or should it be untucked?

Both are possible. Tucked in for smarter looks; untucked or front‑tucked for relaxed styles. Hem length matters here.  If it doesn't look right untucked, try tucking it in.

Long sleeve vs short sleeve polos, when to choose which?

Short sleeve works in warm weather or layered; long sleeve or knit versions give more formality and warmth.

How to care for polo shirts?

Wash cold or per care label; as with most clothes, avoid tumble drying; reshape the collar; hang or fold properly; maintain colour (wash inside out, avoid strong detergents).

T.M. Lewin Polo Shirt Picks

  • Classic cotton polo in navy or white.  Your perfect base pieces.
  • Knit polo or long sleeve polo for smarter / colder settings.
  • Rich‑tone polos like burgundy for seasonal depth.
  • Slim trousers or chinos to pair with polos.
  • Blazers and jackets for layering.

Summary

Polo shirts strike a unique balance: enough structure to elevate, enough relaxation to feel easy-going. When fitted well, in good fabric, with thoughtful complementing trousers, shoes and accessories, they work across most settings, from weekend plans to business casual engagements. T.M. Lewin’s fabrics, colours and tailoring give you all the tools to make polos a defining piece in your wardrobe.

Read next: The Smart Casual Style Guide

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