Polo shirt

File:Polo Ralph Lauren logo.png

Polo shirt
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Type	Shirt
Material	Cotton, polyester, or blends
Origin	Country or culture of origin
First use	Historical period or date of first use
Typical use	Formal, casual, ceremonial, etc.
Availability	Widely used, traditional, etc.
Related items	Other related clothing items

A polo shirt is a form of shirt with a collar, a placket neckline with two or three buttons, and an optional pocket. Polo shirts are usually short-sleeved; they were originally used by polo players during the 1920s. Today, they are worn in a variety of settings, from casual to semi-formal.

History

The polo shirt was first designed in the 1920s by René Lacoste, a French tennis player who sought a more comfortable alternative to the traditional tennis attire of the time. Lacoste's design featured a soft, unstarched collar, a buttoned placket, and a longer tail at the back, which helped keep the shirt tucked in during play. This design was revolutionary and quickly adopted by polo players, leading to the name "polo shirt."

Design and Features

Polo shirts are typically made from knitted cloth, usually piqué cotton, or less commonly, interlock cotton, silk, merino wool, or synthetic fibers. The piqué knit gives the fabric a textured surface, which is both durable and breathable, making it ideal for sports and casual wear.

Collar

The collar of a polo shirt is usually made from a ribbed knit fabric, which helps it maintain its shape. The collar can be worn up or down, depending on the wearer's preference.

Placket

The placket is the opening at the neck of the shirt, which typically features two or three buttons. This allows the wearer to adjust the fit and ventilation of the shirt.

Sleeves

Polo shirts are most commonly short-sleeved, but long-sleeved versions are also available. The sleeves often have ribbed cuffs, which provide a snug fit around the arms.

Hem

The hem of a polo shirt is usually straight, but some designs feature a "tennis tail," where the back of the shirt is slightly longer than the front. This design helps keep the shirt tucked in during physical activity.

Uses

Polo shirts are versatile garments that can be worn in a variety of settings. They are popular in casual and business casual attire, often paired with khaki pants or jeans. In some workplaces, polo shirts are part of the uniform, especially in industries where a more relaxed dress code is acceptable.

Cultural Significance

The polo shirt has become a staple in many wardrobes around the world. It is associated with preppy fashion and is often worn by those who wish to project a smart-casual image. The shirt is also a popular choice for company uniforms, as it can be easily branded with logos and is comfortable for all-day wear.

Also see

• T-shirt
• Button-down shirt
• Sweater
• Casual wear
• Business casual