The polo shirt dates back to the 1800s, when polo players first wore the style as sporting attire. Now sometimes called a golf shirt or tennis shirt, polo shirts are most commonly seen at country clubs and on casual Fridays.
Characteristics
The polo shirt is a pullover shirt, usually made from a pique knit fabric. It features a ribbed collar, extra-long shirttail and a short button placket at the collar.
Origins
A long-sleeved polo shirt was first worn in the 1800s by polo players. In 1926, tennis player Rene Lacoste created a short-sleeve version to wear while playing tennis.
Brands
After retiring from tennis in 1933, Lacoste began selling polo shirts in France, but they weren't available in the United States until the 1950s. In 1972, Ralph Lauren debuted his classic polo shirt, available in 24 colors.
Fashion Trends
The polo shirt has become a classic fashion item. Over the years, it has been trendy at times to wear several polo shirts at once or to "pop the collar." Polo-style shirt dresses have been created for women.
Misconceptions
It's sometimes thought that the term "polo shirt: comes from Ralph's Lauren's Polo brand. Although Ralph Lauren is well known for his polo shirts, the name comes only from the shirt's origins as clothing for polo players.
Tags: polo shirt, polo players, polo shirts, Ralph Lauren
