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MEN'S POLO SHIRTS: 5 TIPS TO PICK THE RIGHT ONE

Written by Menswear Style in Essentials on the 28th August 2024

Polo shirts are adaptable and should be a staple in any man's collection. The Polo, with its hybrid style that combines elements of both a t-shirt and a dress shirt, makes it ideal for occasions that do not call for full formal attire. Unlike the average t-shirt, which only ever shouts "casual," this apparel item is perfect for any occasion. When choosing a polo shirt, you want it to fall just perfectly on your body without snagging or drawing attention away from your figure, but there are numerous options out there. So, how does one go about selecting a polo shirt that complements their style? Here are 5 tips to help you find the right polo shirt for you.

1. Get the Perfect Fit and Size

When shopping for polo shirts, many people make the rookie mistake of not getting the right size. Clothing that is the appropriate size or fits you well can make any body type seem great. Besides looking respectable and fashionable, it has many other positive effects on your personality. Pick a polo shirt that doesn't cling too tightly to your body. One easy way to tell whether something is the proper size is if you can comfortably slide two fingers beneath the sleeve. Try on several different polo shirts before you buy one. Also, make sure the length of your polos is proportional to your height. Your shirt's hem should fall just below the waistline.

2. Check Shoulder and Sleeve Length

Just as with formal shirts, the widest part of the shoulder should rest on the bone. The best situation is when you have two inches of additional cloth on each side to stretch. On the other hand, short men's polo shirts should have sleeves that fall halfway down the bicep and not extend more than two-thirds of the way down your upper arm. Longer or shorter sleeve lengths than these will give the impression that you are wearing someone else's clothing.

3. Fabric Quality Matters

Picking out the correct fabric is essential when shopping for your preferred polo shirt. Nowadays, you can get polos made from a range of fabrics, including synthetic and natural ones. For sports apparel, synthetic textiles are usually the way to go. Polo shirts with a silky blend aren't ideal for active use. They are more likely to lose their colour fast and show perspiration quickly. Shirts made of polyester or a cotton/polyester combination will last longer. The downside is that they don't allow as much air circulation, so any unpleasant smells you may have could be carried on by your shirt. Since polo shirts are often worn in warmer climates, it is best to choose a 100% cotton material that is both comfortable and breathable. If you're looking for a shirt fabric for both day and night, this is it.

4. Colours

When you're just starting out with polo shirts, go with solid colours. Consider experimenting with muted hues as well. The most adaptable colour palettes are black, white, grey, and navy blue, which complement a wide range of complexion tones and body shapes. When you're ready to branch out, consider other available polo shirt styles, colours, and patterns. Choose a shade that complements your hair and skin tone rather than one that draws attention to itself. Keep in mind that not everyone looks well in bright colours like fuchsia or yellow; but if you feel confident, then wear them nonetheless!

5. Keep Shape and Avoid Bulkiness

Pocketed polo shirts tend to balloon out of form after a while. The visible contents of the pocket can also give the impression of extra weight to the shirt, affecting the shirt's overall appearance. If you want to look your best, buy a polo shirt without pockets and a smooth front. Keep your polo shirt untucked unless you're a professional golfer and are wearing a jacket. You can tuck the front of the shirt to hide part of your belt if you wear a coat over the polo. It's highly recommended since it subtly enhances the overall look.

Conclusion

Polo shirts are perfect for every occasion, whether you're going for a more formal or informal look. But, like with any article of apparel, the most crucial factor is the fit. Even the most exquisite and costly thing will be rendered useless if it does not fit correctly. On the other side, you'll look great in what fits properly. With the help of the above tips, you are guaranteed to find a polo shirt that brings the best out of you.