Polo shirts for men
At JACK & JONES, we have a soft spot for the polo shirt. No surprise there – for almost a century, it has occupied the space where a T-shirt and shirt would usually compete: collar yes, tie no. Buttons yes, sleeves kept simple. That easy middle ground is exactly why the polo works so reliably in everyday wardrobes.
In our collection of men’s polo shirts, you’ll find classic cotton piqué, softer jersey, short-sleeve and long-sleeve options, understated core colours and brighter highlights. It is a piece that handles business casual and weekend plans equally well – without demanding much more attention than a straightforward T-shirt.
Where the men’s polo shirt comes from
Originally developed for tennis players, then adopted by polo players and finally absorbed into everyday wardrobes. The combination of collar, short button placket and breathable piqué fabric has barely changed since the 1920s – a good sign that the polo shirt design simply works. Today, a men’s polo shirt is a standard wardrobe piece for anyone who sometimes wants something between a T-shirt and a shirt.
What once counted as sportswear is now a business-casual staple. It has travelled from the court to the office without making much noise. Men’s polo shirts now come in every price point, colour and fit, from reliable basics to more elevated styles.
Cotton piqué in polo shirts: the fabric in detail
Cotton piqué is the classic knit for polo shirts. It has a small honeycomb-like texture, feels more substantial than smooth jersey and remains breathable enough for warm days. Once you have handled cotton piqué, the lightly textured surface is easy to recognise.
Pure cotton remains one of the most popular materials for men’s polo shirts thanks to its natural hand feel, moisture management and durability. Alternatives include interlock jersey, which feels smoother and softer, cotton-polyester blends that help the garment hold its shape, and cotton with elastane for a little more freedom of movement.
For a first purchase, classic cotton piqué is still the safest all-round choice. In our collection, you can find polo shirts across all of these material options.
Colours that make sense for men’s polo shirts
White, navy, black and grey are the four core polo colours that work with almost any pair of trousers.
- Add more range: Beige, burgundy, deep green or a muted shade of blue.
- The exception: Bright prints and bold patterns work best as occasional pieces rather than the default.
- If you’re starting out: Choose solid colours first. A clean tone-on-tone polo looks more considered.
- If you want more: Try mustard or petrol blue. One statement colour per outfit is enough.
Short sleeves or long sleeves?
Short sleeves are the standard and work from spring through autumn. Long-sleeve polos step into the role of a lightweight shirt and sit well under a jumper or blazer in winter.
A long-sleeve polo in navy or grey is one of the easiest, most understated ways to build more options into a cold-weather wardrobe.
How to wear a men’s polo at the office
Business casual is straightforward: a polo in a muted colour, clean trousers and closed shoes. A black or navy polo can easily replace a classic shirt on Fridays when the dress code allows it. Pair it with chinos for a business-casual outfit that looks considered without feeling overdressed.
The top button changes the feel. Left open, it looks more relaxed; fastened, it becomes more formal. If you wear a polo under a blazer, the top button is usually best left open so the collar does not become too prominent. For more traditional office environments, men’s polo shirts in slim or regular fit are the safest choices.
Casual combinations for the weekend
Almost any polo works with regular fit jeans. It also pairs naturally with shorts in summer. When the evening turns cooler, add a sweatshirt or lightweight jacket over the polo and let the collar remain visible. Finish with sneakers and the right trousers for a casual look that works for meeting friends in the park or heading out for an easy dinner.
A brighter polo often makes more sense at the weekend than at the office. If you keep one statement style in your wardrobe, the rest of the outfit can stay calm. Go for lighter short-sleeve polos in summer and long-sleeve polos in muted tones through the transitional seasons.
Sizes and fit for men’s polo shirts
A polo can sit close to the body, but it should never pull. The shoulder seam should finish where your shoulder ends, while the sleeve should sit neatly around the arm without feeling restrictive. If you are between two sizes, the smaller size can often look sharper, as an overly loose polo may quickly feel unfinished. Find more guidance in our size guide.
Patterns, prints and details
If you already own a solid base of plain polos, subtle details are worth exploring: narrow stripes, a small chest emblem or contrast tipping around the collar. Cable textures and stronger prints are statement options, so one standout piece at a time is usually enough.
The pieces to wear with your men’s polo shirts
A polo needs the right trousers, so take a look at our chinos, stretch trousers or shorts for summer. When the temperature drops later in the day, layer a sweatshirt or lightweight jumper over the top. That is the look sorted.
