The authentic and timeless world of Ralph Lauren
June 2025
RL/Men

There’s More Than Just One Polo Shirt

The Polo shirt—a standard in the Ralph Lauren stable since 1972—is more relevant than ever in a world of relaxed and diversified dress codes. That’s why it’s important to consider how these three variations, with their distinct cuts and fabrications, factor into a working summer wardrobe
By Eric Twardzik
1.

THE STRETCH MESH POLO SHIRT

The stretch mesh used to make this Polo shirt is inspired by oxford cloth and has a similarly open weave and feel. But it benefits from a small percentage of elastane in its blend, making it more forgiving than our original 100 percent cotton mesh. The texture remains sporty, but its cool, tonal stripes and slightly finer feel give it the versatility of a more finished, elevated piece.
Look Nº 1
A mesh Polo shirt can be worn the same way you might wear a button-down, i.e. with something as classic as chinos and a navy blazer, enhanced by the addition of a choice accessory like a polka-dot silk pocket square. At the same time, it’s right at home on the weekend over a pair of cotton shorts and canvas sneakers.
Maestra Calfskin Penny Loafer
$548.00
Salinger Straight Fit Chino Pant
$175.00
Polka-Dot Silk Pocket Square
$98.50
Look Nº 2
A neutral-tone stripe provides the foundation for a great off-duty combination—a tan suede jacket and white denim. The effortless sophistication of such a dialed-back color scheme is a useful reminder that less can be more.
Heritage Round Sunglasses
$240.00
The Iconic Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater
$498.00
Maestra Calfskin Penny Loafer
$548.00
2.

THE LONG-SLEEVE POLO SHIRT

A long-sleeve Polo shirt made with breathable, 100 percent linen mesh with a spread collar is a worthy substitute to the traditional white dress shirt, especially on summer days when the temperature remains cool or drops after sunset. It’s also easy to pack and layer, which makes it a travel staple.
Look Nº 1
The sharp yet relaxed appeal of the long-sleeve Polo shirt makes it an ideal piece to bridge the formal/casual divide, like a sport jacket paired with faded jeans and a comfortable pair of tassel loafers. And whenever the temperature—or the situation—calls for it, you can always cast off the top layer and roll up the sleeves.
Maestra Tassel Calfskin Loafer
$548.00
Linen Mesh Polo Shirt
$198.00
Heritage Round Sunglasses
$240.00
Varick Slim Straight Jean
$125.00
Look Nº 2
Long-sleeve Polo shirts are also fair game with a suit. And when you’re not in the mood to wear to wear a tie, follow the way of the cowboy with your favorite cotton bandanna.
Maestra Tassel Calfskin Loafer
$548.00
Linen Mesh Polo Shirt
$198.00
Heritage Rowing Stripe Round Sunglasses
$200.00
3.

THE JOHNNY-COLLAR POLO SHIRT

Meet the Johnny-collar Polo shirt, so named for having a short, open placket and a single, concealed button. This one is loosely knit from pure linen, and is banded at the sleeves and waist. In other words, it’s intended to be worn untucked yet always looks put-together.
Look Nº 1
The visual presence of its rib-knit construction allows this Polo shirt to take the place of a dress shirt in a suited look. And it can just as easily be worn with a pair of tailored pants, no tucking in required, even if club rules say different.
Polka-Dot Silk Pocket Square
$98.50
Heritage Round Sunglasses
$240.00
Linen Suit Trouser
$398.00
Maestra Tassel Calfskin Loafer
$548.00
Look Nº 2
It’s smarter than a typical Polo shirt, but rich enough in texture to be worn casually with denim. As part of a denim-on-denim look, it strikes a note of contrast in fabric and feel.
Denim Trucker Jacket
$198.00
Leather-Trim Suede Belt
$98.50
Maestra Calfskin Penny Loafer
$548.00
Look Nº 3
When putting together a tonal ensemble, the trick is to vary the textures. Here, the fine weave of a lightweight linen suit makes a pleasing contrast with the more open, ribbed knit of the Polo. The subtle elegance of a silk pocket square is the finishing touch. A look of tonal simplicity gets a lift with a bit of textural attention.
Polka-Dot Silk Pocket Square
$98.50
Heritage Round Sunglasses
$240.00
Linen Suit Trouser
$398.00
Maestra Tassel Calfskin Loafer
$548.00
Eric Twardzik is a writer with a deep reverence for things that get better with age, from tweed jackets to single-malt Scotch. He has written for GQ, Esquire, and Condé Nast Traveler and is the deputy editor of Wm Brown. He lives in New England with his family and owns too many ties.
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