Polo Shirts Through the Decades with Ralph Lauren

The polo shirt, a short-sleeved collared partial button-up, was invented in the 19th century to be worn by tennis and polo players during their games. Its breathable cotton construction and short sleeves made it a more comfortable option for players, but the style also caught on in fashion circles, especially as the decades progressed.

The polo shirt has waxed and waned in popularity over time, being embraced in different ways by shifting generations. Let Ralph Lauren take you on a journey through the decades, and find new ways of wearing them, too.

1920s

The 1920s saw the popularization of the polo shirt through French tennis legend René Lacoste, dubbed “the Crocodile” by the media, who wore tennis whites composed of bermuda shorts and a white polo shirt when he was on the courts. Even if you’re not a tennis player, you can recreate the 1920s take on the polo by wearing it in an all-white ensemble, tucking the shirt in, and topping the look off with a flat cap and tennis shoes.

1950s

In the 1950s, men’s fashion was about appearing strong, solid and masculine. The quintessential American dad wore a bespoke suit to the office, but when the weekend came and it was time to roll up the grill, a polo shirt was the top choice for family fun. Style your polo the 50s way by tucking it into chinos, leaving the top mostly unbuttoned, and, if there’s a chill, topping with a plaid blazer.

1980s

In the 80s, prep style was at its all-time high in an era of economic prosperity and high-speed living. The polo, due to its roots in blue-blooded sports like tennis, golf and polo, retained a natural preppy heritage that was embraced by the buttoned-up youth of the world. To get the 80s polo look, pair it with a big-shouldered navy blazer and relaxed-fit khakis.

2000’s

Remember the days of popped collars? Well, it’s time to bring them back. Turning the collar of a polo shirt up was a trend that took the world by storm in the aughts, leading some to even layer on 2 or more shirts to achieve a multi-dimensional collar pop. To update the look, wear a military jacket on top and pop its collar too.

Today

Today’s polo look is less prepster, more hipster. Buttoned all the way up and worn with skinny pants and brogues, the polo gives a slim and sophisticated look to any body type. Go sophisticated in navy or grey, or funk it up with a patterned take to bring the polo into the new age.

Ralph Lauren’s classic polos have transcended time to become a closet staple. Learn how it’s been worn over the years and then find your own take on the style.

Ralph Lauren’s polos stand the test of time.

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