As the days go by in our work-from-home reality (with seemingly no end in sight), it’s becoming increasingly difficult to wear anything other than sweats and bathrobes (no judgment). But if you want to feel comfortable, and still look presentable for your Zoom calls or midday errands, might we suggest throwing on a polo shirt. After all, the collared staple has a storied reputation as a stylish and utilitarian garment, dating back to the 19th century as a thick, long-sleeve uniform for British polo players in India. Decades later, a streamlined silhouette with shorter sleeves was worn by tennis players, then transitioned from sportswear to streetwear.
Nowadays, it’s almost as ubiquitous as a t-shirt, is available in countless styles, and looks fantastic on anybody. Ahead, we highlight our favorites to buy now.
Lacoste Sport Breathable Anti-UV Piqué Polo
We can’t do a roundup without including the OG of the modern polo shirt (aka tennis shirt). Lacoste updates its classic short sleeve shirt in a lightweight polyester that looks great on and off court.
Rhone Delta Pique Polo
Just like their winning workout shirts, Rhone’s polos provide plenty of utility, style, and comfort thanks to their proprietary fabric that’s moisture-wicking, and can keep your body from getting too hot or cool. We love a multitasker.
Kuyigo Long Sleeve Polo Shirts Casual Slim Fit Cotton Shirts
This long sleeve polo will keep you stylish and warm during these cooler months, and are just as easy to throw on (and off) as your favorite hoodies.
Devereux Monaco Polo
A buzzy athleisure upstart, Devereux makes some durable threads that will last year for years to come, and this moisture wicking polo is no exception.
William Murray Golf Shots Dots Polo
Leave it to Bill Murray to add vibrant patterns to your wardrobe with his new, colorful golf apparel, particularly this cheeky, dotted polo.
Mack Weldon Vesper Polo
Featuring a breathable fabric and a seemingly unflappable collar, there’s a lot to like with Mack Weldon’s shirt.
Cuts Polo Curve Hem
We’ve got plenty of love for Cuts, a new clothing brand that specializes in no-nonsense tops. This polo, which has a curved hem and a proprietary lightweight fabric, works well for formal and casual occasions.
The Row Nahor Cotton-Piqué Polo Shirt
This timeless silhouette pairs well with khakis, shorts, or under a blazer. Costing as much as a plane ticket, it’s a choose-your-own sartorial adventure.
Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Polo
Lululemon is a purveyor of active wear that feels like a second skin, so it’s not surprise that the brand’s polos are equally comfortable.
Saint Laurent Black and White Striped Polo
You don’t have to be a rocker to work Saint Laurent’s bold, striped polo.
J. Crew Linen-Cotton Tipped Polo Sweater
The quintessential Don Draper polo for the 21st century.
Aether Knit Polo
This is made with 100% supima cotton, which means it’s lighter and more durable than traditional cotton.
How a Polo Shirt Should Fit
Before you cop a polo, you need to make sure it fits correctly. A shirt that’s too slim can make you look like a tightly packed sausage. You should be able to pinch about two inches of fabric around your sides. Like suit jackets, there should be no puckering at the shoulders of your polo, and the sleeves should fall on the lower half of your bicep. You have a bit more leeway with your hem, but ideally it should end an inch or two below your waist.
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