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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

Mastering the Polo Shirt Look: Style Rules Every Guy Should Know

By now, the polo shirt needs no introduction. A versatile upgrade from the basic tee, it’s polished enough for various settings while keeping a relaxed vibe. In my book, it’s the ideal choice when you want comfort that doesn’t sacrifice style.

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Yet, pulling off a polo isn’t as simple as throwing it on - get a few details wrong, and you’ll end up looking out of place. So, let’s dive into the essentials of wearing a polo the right way.


Getting the Hem Right

Classic polos made from pique cotton often have a longer back hem, intended for an easy tuck. Here's the rule: if the back hem hangs more than halfway over your back pocket, it’s too long. Aim for a tailored look, not a makeshift tunic.

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The back hem is typically longer than the front hem.


Navigating the Placket

Once the length checks out, the placket is next. Polos with a deep placket can look messy if you leave the bottom button undone, especially around the collar and shoulders.

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Leaving the bottom button undone on a long-placket polo can make the look feel sloppy.


For a cleaner style, go with polos that have a shorter placket, especially if you’re on the shorter side - it helps avoid visually “cutting” your torso in unflattering ways.

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If the placket is short, you can skip buttoning the last one.

Nailing the Sleeve Fit

One defining feature of the polo is the ribbed sleeve cuff. Ideally, this cuff should lightly hug your biceps, highlighting your build without constricting it.

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Don’t go for anything too tight - a polo isn’t supposed to “compete” with your arms.

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Trying a Knitted Polo

For a more classic aesthetic, the knitted polo is your go-to. Often, these come with a subtle elastic waistband, which can help create a slimming effect.

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When styling a knitted polo, avoid low-rise pants to prevent an awkward break in the silhouette - mid or high-rise pants are the way to go.


Styling Essentials

Once you’ve chosen your perfect polo, a few key style rules apply. Skip the undershirt; extra layers can bulk up your look and disrupt the clean lines.

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Also, since polos are usually form-fitting, ensure you’re taking care of potential underarm stains, especially on lighter colors - hand-washing the underarm area of white polos can keep them looking fresh.

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And a final word on the collar: leave it down unless you’re shielding yourself from the sun. Popping it up doesn’t add style points - it’s all about practicality, not a statement.


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