Bamboo polo shirts for men and when they are smarter than a T-shirt
Short answer: A polo is basically a T-shirt with a collar. The collar makes all the difference, because it gives an edge at the neck and lifts the look without making the outfit formal.
The collar does the work
A collar that stands up frames the face and makes the top read as smarter than a T-shirt. It is a small detail, but it moves the shirt from leisure to something you can wear to dinner, meetings and visits. See bamboo polo shirts for men.
When the polo is the right choice
The polo suits days when a shirt feels like too much and a T-shirt too little. That could be lunch out, a client meeting in summer, a family party in the garden or an office day with a relaxed dress code. It goes with chinos, jeans and shorts and looks good under a jacket.
When to choose a T-shirt instead
On warm days with no need to look smart, an ordinary T-shirt is cooler and more comfortable, because there is nothing around the neck. For training, gardening and a day at the beach, the collar brings no benefit. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
A fit that looks good
The shoulder seam should sit on the shoulder joint, and the sleeves should end halfway down the upper arm. The polo should fit closely enough not to flap, but loosely enough that the placket does not pull. It should reach past the waistband so you can wear it untucked without showing your stomach.
Buttons open or closed
Most people wear a polo with the top button open. It looks relaxed and lets air in. With every button done up, the look becomes neater and more modern, but the collar has to sit well. Under a knit, it looks tidiest with the buttons closed.
Plain colours last longest
Plain polos in navy, white, grey or black can be worn for years without looking dated. Stripes, large logos and loud colours tie the shirt to one season. With two or three plain polos, you have a good base that works with most of your wardrobe.
Bamboo in the heat
Bamboo viscose moves moisture away from the skin and feels cool on warm days. That makes the polo comfortable all day, even when you sit for long periods or walk a lot. Sweat marks under the arms show less and dry faster than in a dense cotton polo.
Caring for the collar
Wash the polo at 30 to 40 degrees inside out. Hang it with the collar raised while it is damp. If it lies folded while wet, the fold sets in the collar and stays. Avoid high heat in the dryer, which can make the collar ripple. See washing and care.
Storage
Hang your polos or fold them loosely with the collar laid flat. Pressed into a full drawer, the collar can get creases. A hanger with broad shoulders also keeps the shoulders in shape, so the shirt is ready to wear straight from the wardrobe without ironing.
Frequently asked questions
Is a polo smarter than a T-shirt?
Yes, the collar gives an edge at the neck that reads as more dressed up. At the same time, a polo is just as easy to wear, so it suits days when a shirt would be too much.
Why does the collar go flat?
Because it lacks reinforcement, or because the shirt is folded while it is wet. Hang the polo with the collar raised after washing, and it will keep its shape for longer.
Can a polo be worn to work?
In most jobs, yes, as long as it is a plain colour and the collar sits properly. Pair it with chinos or dark jeans and perhaps a jacket, and it looks neat all day.
