The polo shirt is the most versatile piece in a man's wardrobe — smart enough for the office, relaxed enough for the weekend. But not all polos are equal. This buying guide walks you through fabric, fit, and styling so you can choose a polo that looks refined rather than generic.
Polo Shirt Fabrics Explained
Fabric is the single biggest factor in how a polo looks and feels. Here's how the main options compare.
Piqué cotton
The classic. Piqué's textured weave is breathable and holds its structure, making it the most versatile year-round choice. The Como Classic Piqué Polo is a textbook example — ribbed collar, clean geometry, easy to dress up or down.
Fine-gauge knit
A knit polo drapes softly and reads more elevated than standard cotton. The Ashford Fine Knit Polo shows how a relaxed knit can look quietly luxurious.
Linen
Unbeatable in heat. Linen breathes better than any other fabric, with a natural texture that signals summer refinement. The Casablanca Linen Polo is woven from 100% linen for exactly this reason.
Wool
For autumn and winter, a wool knit polo regulates warmth and adds substance. The Arundel 100% Wool Knit Polo extends polo season into the colder months.
Shop the Look
Find Your Perfect Polo
From breathable piqué to refined knit and pure linen — explore the full range and find the fabric that suits you.
Getting the Fit Right
A good polo skims the body without clinging. Check three things: the shoulder seam should sit exactly at the edge of your shoulder; the sleeve should end mid-bicep and sit close, not loose; and the hem should fall around mid-fly, so it looks clean untucked. If any of these are off, size around the shoulders first — everything else can be adjusted more easily.
Collar Styles and Details
The collar changes the whole character of a polo. A classic ribbed collar is the safest, most versatile option. A half-zip placket, like the Ridgeway Half-Zip Polo, gives a cleaner, more modern neckline. Contrast trim, as on the Saint-Tropez Contrast Trim Polo, adds a refined sporting accent. And a mandarin collar offers a quietly formal alternative for a more distinctive look.
How to Style a Polo
For a smart-casual office look, pair a piqué or knit polo with tailored chinos and loafers. For weekends, a linen or Breton-stripe polo with light trousers works effortlessly. The rule of thumb: keep the palette muted and let the polo be the anchor of the outfit.
Which Polo Should You Buy?
If you want one do-everything polo, choose piqué cotton. For hot climates, go linen. For an elevated, dressed-up feel, choose a fine knit. And for winter, wool.