The Glenmuir Guide to Polo Shirts

A brief history

The original polo shirt was more like a regular dress shirt than the iconic design we know and love today. It was created, so legend has it, when the British military witnessed a polo game in Manipur, India in the mid-1800s. These shirts were long-sleeved with a buttoned-down collar to stop it flapping as they galloped.

This original design was then taken on by Brook Brothers. But it wasn’t until the French tennis legend Rene Lacoste came along in the early 1900s that it started to look like the modern version with its short sleeves.

Lacoste not only changed the sleeves but he also brought it the ‘tennis tail’ (a longer back that stays tucked in), a more relaxed collar and the piqued cotton to aid breathability. Ironically, this new, sportier design was then spotted by polo players and taken on board.

It wasn’t until the 1950s that the shirt was embraced by the golfing world after US President Dwight Eisenhower wore one while playing golf. It was quickly added to many golf clubs’ lists of approved attire.

While there have been various designers since then claiming to have created the definitive polo shirt, it was Lacoste who brought it to the main stream.
   

How to wear polo shirts

Collar up or down? With a t-shirt or without? We answer your polo shirt style conundrums…

Single layer

A polo shirt should be fitted to your body. Therefore, there will be little room underneath for a t-shirt. The shirts are designed for sports - adding another layer can lead to the shirt moving out of place and becoming uncomfortable.

Collar down

You might have got away with it in your teenage years, but you’re an adult and should probably dress like one. Polo shirt collars should always be worn down.

Embrace the colours

Maybe it’s their Indian history or simple design, but polo shirts are one garment to which you can add a splash of colour, without looking garish. But don’t be tempted to go for outlandish designs or over-sized logos.

On the course

A golfing polo shirt will be slightly different to your regular fashion version – mainly in the type of material. Professional players often prefer a mix of cotton and synthetic fabrics to improve the shirt’s breathability and movement.
   

Buying guide

What should you be looking for when buying your next polo shirt?

Get a selection

As they come in a range of prices and colours, it’s worth picking out a few different styles - some for the course, others for the club house. Bright colours work well in the summer or on holiday, while navies and darker colours work well in the winter.

Casual and sports

While it’s fine to wear casual polo shirts on the course, wearing your sports polo shirt down the pub might look a little strange. Pick a selection of each.

Look for details

While the design is simple, there’s a lot of detailing that goes into a design. Look at the quality of buttons, whether it has been taped inside the shoulder seams and the stitching quality. These can be a reflection of the overall quality and how long it will last.

Check the collars

Soft, rounded collars can quickly look old and start to turn. Look for collars that are closer to a shirt collar or have some form of support to prevent curling.

Find your perfect shirt

Once you’ve found your perfect shirt (and there will be one out there for you) stick with it. It’ll be a great staple to have in your wardrobe and you’ll be able to order online once you know your perfect size.