How to Style Polo Shirts

A polo is a wardrobe staple. It is a classic, yet diverse shirt that can be styled in a multitude of ways. First, find a polo that fits your body and sense of style. You can go for a plain, single colored polo, or choose a patterned polo for a unique flare. Once you've chosen your polo, decide if you want to dress it up or go for a casual look.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Choosing a Polo Style

A classic cut is the most common polo you will find. Typically, the classic cut polo is a more relaxed fit, but it is not baggy. It looks straight up and down on the torso, rather than getting tighter at the waist. The sleeves come about halfway down the bicep, although this is common with most polos. This polo is ideal if you're dressing up and wanting a classy, clean look.^{[1]XResearch source}
A custom cut polo will be labeled as a “custom fit” rather than being tailored to your specific measurements. A custom provides a snug fit. It is also a bit shorter than a classic cut polo in both the arm and shirt length, which makes it the best choice for not tucking your shirt in.^{[2]XResearch source}
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The slim cut polo is similar to the custom cut in fit, though it is a bit more fitted. It is also slightly shorter in length than the custom cut. This is a good choice for a casual outfit.^{[3]XResearch source}
A basic polo is usually solid colored and in a neutral color—like navy blue, black, white, or beige. It is also usually plain in a design. It doesn't have a pattern or large logo. This is a great choice for a diverse style. You can pair it with a dressier outfit, though it can easily be styled casually.^{[4]XResearch source}
You could wear a striped, flowered, or just a bright pink polo. This type of polo is usually paired best with a more casual outfit—like with a pair of jeans or shorts.^{[5]XResearch source}
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Dressing up a Polo

1
Wear your polo with a suit for a work-ready look. Choose a basic polo that pairs well with the color of your suit. For example, you could pair a white polo with a navy blue suit. Or, you could go for a more fun and unique look by pairing a red polo with a white pinstriped suit. A pair of loafers or other dress shoes would work best for either look.^{[6]XResearch source}
- You could also pair a basic polo with solid colored pants and a patterned jacket. For example, you could wear a beige polo with brown pants and a brown jacket with a paisley pattern.
2
Try it out with a mid-length skirt for a dressy and fun look. Dress up an outfit and add a feminine touch by pairing a polo and skirt together. Go for a basic polo—like black or any other neutral color. Then, put on a nice, mid-length skirt. You can wear a cream colored silk skirt with a black polo. Or choose, a white polo with a patterned skirt.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Choose an accessory, like a pair of earrings, a light scarf, or both to pull the look together.
- Wear a pair of heels or loafers to keep the look dressed up.
3
Pair your polo with dress pants and a belt for a dinner outfit. A polo with a pair of dress pants and a belt is ideal for work or a dinner. Go for a basic polo in a neutral color, and make sure it is long enough to be tucked in. For example, you could wear a beige polo with black pants and black leather belt.^{[8]XResearch source}
- Wear a pair of loafers or other dress shoes that match your belt and/or pants.
- You could also wear a pair of beige dress pants with a brown leather belt and a light blue polo.
4
Layer a polo under a sweater in colder weather. You can keep the look dressier by wearing a nice, plain sweater with a basic polo, dress pants or skirt, and a nice pair of shoes—like loafers or high heels. Make sure to pull the collar out over your sweater so that your layers are noticeable.^{[9]XResearch source}
- You could also pair a warm scarf with your sweater and polo. Wear the scarf loosely so that the collar of your polo still shows through.
- Make sure the color of the polo pairs well with the sweater. For example, a white shirt would look great under a navy sweater. But, a white shirt might not look as good with an off-white sweater.
5
Wear your polo with a blazer and jeans for a laid back, yet sharp look. Put on the polo of your choice with a blazer, pair of nice jeans, and nice sneakers. A pair of ripped jeans would be a bit too casual for this look, but a pair of dark denim would be a good choice. As far as sneakers, look for a pair that aren't dirty or made for sports. A clean pair of leather sneakers would be a great choice.^{[10]XResearch source}
- For example, you could wear a green blazer, with a black polo, dark denim jeans, and black sneakers.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Going Casual

Polos are also great to wear as a casual look during the summer. Pair any polo with a pair of shorts and sneakers or slip-ons. Go for a preppy look by wearing a pastel colored polo and a pair of white or navy blue shorts and sandals. Make your look more unique by wearing a patterned shirt, like a floral print, with a pair of denim shorts and sneakers.^{[11]XResearch source}
2
Pair it with a mini skirt and boots for an edgy look. Choose a polo that is shorter in length in any style and color. You can choose a striped polo or a solid colored polo. Pair it with a mini skirt and a pair of combat boots or Doc Martens. This will make a typically preppy shirt have an edgy flare.^{[12]XResearch source}
- For example, wear a black pleated skirt, black boots, and a black polo with colored stripes.
This is a quick and easy look to put together. Choose any polo, whether it is basic, patterned, or brightly colored, and add a pair of jeans. Put on sneakers and sandals and you are good to go.^{[13]XResearch source}
Choose a polo in a neutral color—like black or white. Pair it with a tennis skirt and sneakers. You don't actually have to play tennis, though. This is a great look for a day out running errands or hanging out with friends.^{[14]XResearch source}
5
Choose accessories like beanies in colder weather. A casual look isn't just ideal for warm weather. For cold weather, throw on a beanie and a scarf. You can also wear a leather jacket or a bomber jacket to keep your look stylish and warm, yet casual.^{[15]XResearch source}
- For example, wear a brown leather jacket, with a blue polo, jeans, sneakers, and a beanie.
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Community Q&A

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How many buttons should I button up?
Community Answer
I think two is perfect. If your polo has three buttons, then definitely fasten two. If your polo only has two buttons, then just do up one. In any case, fasten all the buttons except for the top one.
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Tips

If your polo has buttons, fasten at least one of them. This will give your polo a sharper, cleaner look.^{[16]XResearch source}
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Tuck your polo in for a more formal look. Leave it untucked for a casual look.^{[17]XResearch source}
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Warnings

Don't wear an undershirt unless necessary. A polo meant to be worn as single layer, although it's okay to wear them under a sweater.^{[18]XResearch source}
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Don't pop the collar on a polo.^{[19]XResearch source}
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