The classic polo shirts have been around for almost a century, but they have never gotten old. They now come in different materials, designs, and fits to suit modern fashion needs while retaining originality.
If you’re buying a polo shirt for the first time, it might seem simple enough to pick one in your desired color and wear it. But there's a lot more to it. You must learn what makes a polo shirt outstanding, including its structure, details, fit, cut, and other characteristics.
We've created a complete guide to polo shirts to help you find the right one in 2024.
The Structure of a Polo Shirt
The structure of a polo shirt relies on three elements: the collar, the placket, and the sleeves.
Collar
Traditionally, polo shirt collars are made using a ribbed knit fabric. This allows them to retain their shape and stand up against the neck without curling up or getting floppy over time.
An outstanding polo shirt collar would be firm yet flexible, able to maintain its shape even after multiple washes. The collar should lie flat when unfolded and look neat and crisp when popped up.
Placket
The placket is the part of the polo shirt that holds the buttons—the opening where your head passes through. A high-quality, reinforced placket will maintain its structure and alignment so the shirt doesn’t lose shape with wear.
Such a placket is typically made from a sturdier fabric than the rest of the shirt and contains two to three buttons. The stitching around the placket is crucial; it should be evenly spaced and tight to prevent puckering or stretching.
Sleeves
A polo shirt's sleeves are short and end halfway up the bicep. They also often feature ribbed armbands that hug the arm snugly without restricting movement.
The sleeves should be set in with a precise seam that smoothly transitions into the body of the shirt. This seam will allow for comfortable arm movement without being too baggy or tight. The same attention to fit and detail applies to long-sleeved polo shirts. The cuffs should comfortably leave room for any watches or bracelets.
The Materials of a Polo Shirt
What is the perfect polo shirt made of? Does the material even matter? Let’s get into it.
Different Fabrics
High-quality polo shirts are typically made from cotton, often blended with other fibers.
A common blend is cotton–polyester, which combines the breathable and soft feel of cotton with the wrinkle resistance and durability of polyester. Another option is a cotton-elastane blend, which adds stretch for better shape retention.
Above all, it should withstand repeated washing and wearing without losing its shape or color. Polyester blends are durable enough—resistant to wrinkling and fading. Reinforced seams and high-quality stitching also add to the longevity.
Fabric Weight
The fabric’s weight is the most important aspect of the shirt's feel and durability.
You should look for a medium-weight fabric, around 180-220 grams per square meter (GSM). This is the perfect balance between being heavy enough to drape well and still being comfortable.
Regardless of the weight material, the polo shirt needs to be breathable. This is absolutely crucial for sports polo shirts, which need to regulate body temperature and prevent sweat buildup.
Fabric Finish
Polo shirts can be treated with certain finishes for better performance.
For example, a mercerized finish can be applied to cotton fibers for better strength, luster, and color retention. Meanwhile, moisture-wicking finishes, such as those with Drycell technology, are used on polyester blends for performance and athletic polos.
The Fit and Cut of a Polo Shirt
Finding the right fit and cut is the secret to having a polo shirt that looks like it was made for you. Watch out for these features in your shirt:
- Shoulder Seam Placement: The shoulder seam should align with the edge of your shoulder. This creates a proper fit and prevents the shirt from looking too big or small. If the seam hangs over the shoulder or sits too far inward, it will create an unflattering silhouette.
- Sleeve Length: The sleeves should hit just above the midpoint of your bicep. This way, you can easily move your arm without the sleeves being ill-sized. Sleeves that are too short can make the shirt look juvenile, while too-long sleeves will just look sloppy.
- Body Length: The shirt's hem should fall around mid-hip level – just enough coverage without being too long or too short. The right length will keep your shirt tucked in when you need it to, but it can also be worn untucked without looking unkempt.
- Tailoring around the Torso: A well-fitted polo shirt should gently follow the body's contours without clinging too tightly. The last thing you want is for it to constrict around the midsection. High-quality tailoring around the torso will create a more flattering silhouette without sacrificing your comfort.
The Details of a Polo Shirt
When it comes to the quality of a polo shirt, the proof is all in the details. Here’s what you can’t overlook.
- Buttons: Instead of cheap plastic buttons, a good-quality polo shirt features buttons made of mother-of-pearl. These buttons have a natural iridescence and durable build.
- Logos: Logos on high-quality polo shirts are typically embroidered rather than printed. Embroidery lasts longer and is also resistant to fading or peeling over time.
- Labels: Satin labels are a major indicator of high-quality garments. Satin labels aren’t just luxurious but also feel soft against the skin. Other materials typically start to pinch and pin at your skin after a while. Plus, satin labels are durable and less prone to fraying!
- Stitching: Neat and precise stitching is a must-have. Each stitch should be uniform and secure, whether it's the seams, collar, or cuffs. This attention to detail is the key to the shirt’s durability and overall quality.
Buying a Polo Shirt: Tips To Make a Happy Purchase
Now, considering a polo shirt's structure, fit, and materials, what type of shirt should you go for? Here are some tips to make the most of your shopping experience:
- A quality polo shirt comfortably fits any body size. It could be a slim fit for a modern look or a classic fit for more room. Ensure the fit is just right without feeling too tight or loose.
- Check the quality of the polo shirt’s material. It should feel soft and breathable against the skin for everyday wear. The best options are those with cotton blends and moisture-wicking treatments.
- Watch out for the reinforced seams, particularly at stress points like the collar and cuffs, to prevent stretching or distortion.
- Details matter. Check the shirt’s stitching and buttons to ensure they look neat, secure, and durable.
- Go for a shirt that can easily shift from casual to semi-formal. A versatile color palette and timeless design make it easy to pair with jeans for a laid-back look or chinos for something more business casual.
- Functionality is key if you live an active lifestyle. Look for features like UV protection, odor resistance, and quick-drying properties.
- Lastly, convenience is also important. Everybody wants a polo shirt that is easy to care for. Machine-washable fabrics and wrinkle-resistant finishes save time and effort in the laundry routine.
Conclusion
Polo shirts effortlessly blend modern, casual, and semi-formal looks in one piece of garment. The quality ones are super-soft, breathable, and gentle to the skin, ideal for everyday wear.At Custom Corporate Shirts, we use outstanding polo shirts to design easy-to-wear, top-notch-quality corporate apparel. With a wide range of designs and colors, we have everything you need to update your business’ uniform with polo shirts.