Polo shirt

Polo Shirt Basic Pattern

Tennis-shirt-lacoste

Chakravarty Cup 2008

File:Polo Ralph Lauren logo.png

Polo Ralph Lauren logo

Polo shirt, also known as a golf shirt or tennis shirt, is a form of shirt characterized by a collar, a placket with typically two or three buttons, and an optional pocket. Polo shirts are usually made of knitted cotton (rather than woven cloth), although synthetic fibers and blends are also common. The design of the polo shirt was originally inspired by the attire worn by polo players, which was adapted to reduce the discomfort and impracticality of wearing long-sleeved shirts during physical activity.

History

The origins of the polo shirt can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with its design being significantly influenced by the sport of polo. Initially, polo players wore long-sleeved shirts made of heavy materials. The modern polo shirt was popularized by French tennis player René Lacoste in the 1920s, who sought a more comfortable and practical alternative to the long-sleeved, starched shirts traditionally worn by tennis players. Lacoste's design featured a shorter sleeve length, a softer collar, and was made from a lightweight, breathable piqué knit fabric. The shirt was also marked by the now-iconic crocodile logo, making it one of the first examples of branded clothing.

Design and Features

The classic polo shirt design includes several key features:

• Collar: Polo shirts have a soft, ribbed collar that can be turned up to protect the neck from the sun.
• Placket: The neckline typically has a two or three-button placket, though some designs may have a zipper instead.
• Sleeves: Sleeves are usually short, making the shirt suitable for warm weather or physical activity. Some polo shirts have a ribbed band at the sleeve ends.
• Fabric: Traditionally, polo shirts are made from piqué cotton, a material known for its durability and breathability. However, variations may include silk, merino wool, synthetic fibers, or blends.

Variations

Over time, the polo shirt has evolved into various styles and has been adopted by different subcultures and fashion movements. For example, the preppy look of the 1980s was synonymous with the polo shirt, often paired with a sweater tied around the shoulders. In addition to casual wear, polo shirts are also used as uniforms in many service industries and as casual business attire.

Cultural Impact

The polo shirt has had a significant impact on fashion and culture. It has transcended its athletic origins to become a staple of casual wear, admired for its versatility, comfort, and understated elegance. Brands like Lacoste and Polo Ralph Lauren have elevated the polo shirt to a symbol of leisurely sophistication and status.

See Also

• T-shirt
• Henley shirt
• Rugby shirt