The polo is perhaps the most versatile summer piece in your wardrobe: more refined than a t-shirt, easier than a dress shirt. Whether you're heading to the office, a terrace or a dinner — a good polo always works. Below you'll find the brands, materials and styling tips.
Short answer: choose a polo in a beautiful cotton quality (piqué or soft jersey), in a neutral colour and with a neat collar that holds its shape. A good fit around the shoulders and arms makes the difference between casual and polished.
Why the polo works
The polo combines the ease of a t-shirt with the more refined look of a collar. This makes the piece endlessly versatile: with shorts it looks relaxed, with chinos or trousers it immediately looks polished.
A polo in a neutral colour is an investment you'll wear all season long. Plain styles are the most versatile; a subtle stripe or contrasting collar adds just a little more character. Think Valenza, Stone Island, Drôle de Monsieur, Casablanca and C.P. Company. Browse the full range of men's polos.
Material and quality
The fabric determines how a polo hangs and feels. Classic piqué cotton is sturdy, breathable and holds its shape; a soft jersey or cotton mix hangs more smoothly and wears lightly. Look for a neat, double-stitched collar — it shouldn't become loose too quickly.
Premium polos stand out in the details: clean finishing, solid buttons and a collar that stands upright. You see and feel this in how long the piece stays looking good.
- Wash your polo inside out and dry it on a hanger, so the collar holds its shape.
Fit and colour
A good polo fits neatly at the shoulders and hangs smoothly along the body, without pinching or being too loose. The sleeve ends halfway down your upper arm; too long or too loose quickly looks sloppy.
Start with neutral colours — white, navy, olive, beige — that go with everything, then build from there with a seasonal colour. Plain shades are the easiest to combine.
How to style your polo
For a relaxed summer look, wear the polo with shorts and clean trainers. Want something smarter? Combine with chinos or linen trousers and loafers, and tuck it loosely in for a polished silhouette.
Keep the rest low-key so the polo does the work. One piece with colour or print is enough; the rest can stay neutral.
What to look for when buying
- a beautiful cotton quality (piqué or soft jersey)
- a neat, sturdy collar that holds its shape
- a fit that fits at the shoulders without pinching
- a neutral colour for maximum versatility
- solid buttons and clean finishing
A few good polos in neutral shades will carry you effortlessly through the summer — from beach bar to dinner. Quality over quantity: a premium polo stays beautiful for years.
At Eleganza you shop with an official retailer with free shipping, fast delivery and easy returns.
Frequently asked questions
How should a polo fit?
A polo fits neatly at the shoulders and hangs smoothly along the body, without pinching or being too loose. The sleeve ends halfway down your upper arm.
What colour polo is most versatile?
Neutral shades such as white, navy, olive and beige go with almost everything and are therefore the most versatile base.
