The polo shirts that will make you look effortlessly cool
Our pick of the best polo shirts on the planet for timeless style
Words: Zak Maoui
The polo shirt has come a long way since seven-time Grand Slam tennis champion René Lacoste designed a lightweight alternative to his existing and cumbersome tennis attire.
And, from being adopted by polo players to meaning business in the boardroom, this missing link between casual clothing and formalwear has since been seen on screen, catwalks and sports fields alike.
Here are our picks of the best polo shirts you can buy, items that will stand the test of time, keep you comfortable, and ensure you look effortlessly cool.
Luca Faloni polo shirt
Fitted yet comfortable, Luca Faloni's short-sleeved polo is made in Brescia, Northern Italy, with a super soft and breathable Italian premium cotton piqué. The luxury textile ensures a lightweight finish, while the mother of pearl buttons and the ribbed collar add a subtle edge. Meanwhile, it has been finished with Luca Faloni's 'tinto-capo' process of garment dyeing shades.
Paul Smith polo shirt
Made from 100 per cent organically grown cotton-piqué and cut in a regular-fit, Paul Smith's polo shirt is a universal item that speaks to the very essence of the brand. The Origins Stripes are synonymous with Paul Smith and have been part of the designer's collections since he started working in the 1970s, and here they're presented on the brand's classic Zebra logo.
Brioni polo shirt
Sea Island cotton is the rarest and most luxurious cotton in the world. Exceptionally soft and smooth against the skin, its extremely sought after. And that's why Brioni, the Italian luxury label known for its timeless seperates and excellent suiting, uses it to construct its polo shirts. It's ultra chic to say you're wearing it, but it's even better to feel it on your body.
Paul and Shark polo shirt
This polo shirt from Paul and Shark is crafted from pure Pima cotton, which has an extra-long, fine fibre that offers superior performance in terms of strength, softness and resistance to pilling. It has a light weave, which makes it ideal for warmer climes.
Love Brand & Co polo shirt
Founded upon a deep-rooted affection for the Bahamian islands, Love Brand & Co is owned by husband-wife team Oliver and Rose Tomalin. It's built on island-worthy gear, such as this polo shirt, which is light, airy and ideal for kicking back on the beach.
Mr Marvis polo shirt
Mr Marvis is all about sleek seperates, and this knitted polo is exactly that. Timeless and cut from a burgundy-dyed organic cotton, it will serve its purpose in your everyday wardrobe.
Hackett polo shirt
The garment-dyeing technique used on this cotton jersey knit polo shirt provides an intense colour, making it totally unique. Featuring a practical chest pocket, it's made using a traditional polo shirt design.
Like this? Read aboutCrockett & Jones: the beating heart of proper British footwear
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