It’s official - polo shirts are not just for golfers anymore. Over the past few years they have burst into mainstream fashion, thanks to polo shirt fans such as Kate Moss, Cheryl, and the Duchess of Cambridge.
Women’s polo shirts are now a summertime staple, alongside the frayed denim shorts, plain white t-shirt, and the perfect sun dress. And this year, couture brands such as Dolce and Gabbana, Comme des Garcons and Givenchy have picked up the trend, sending models down the catwalk wearing unique and eye-wateringly expensive polos with wide-legged trousers and leather mini-skirts.
As a result, there has never been more choice on the high street, whether you’re looking for a classic white polo or a bold shirt with a modern twist. Cropped or longline, sleeveless or elbow length, patterned or plain – here are our top six polo shirt brands for women.
1. Ralph Lauren
Known for its preppy aesthetic, Ralph Lauren is one of the original champions of the polo shirt trend. If you want a classic, fitted polo that will never go out of fashion, go for the classic fit or skinny fit in the brand’s signature navy. And make sure you show off that iconic pony logo.Wear with... chinos or denim shorts
2. Uniqlo
Uniqlo has one of the best selections of polo shirts on the high street right now. Their ‘Pique’ polos are logo-free, short-sleeved, and available in this season’s hottest colours of lemon, teal and pale pink. If you only wear your polo shirt on the tennis court, check out the ‘Dry Ex’ range, which is made with an extra-breathable fabric.Wear with... a pleated midi skirt
3. Lacoste
The natural habitat of the Lacoste crocodile is on a plain white polo shirt. Lacoste polos have been around since the early 30s. The design has barely changed since then, although the brand is now producing a popular range of sleeveless polos and longer-sleeved ‘Chemise’ polos as well.Wear with... high-waisted jeans for that retro movie star look
4. Kenzo
Kenzo has been quietly playing around with polo styles for years now, and its classic tiger-logo shirts sell out season after season. However, it’s the printed polos that are set to become collectors’ items. This year’s monochrome eye print shirts have proven to be particularly popular with both men and women.Wear with... palazzo pants and spiky shoes
5. Tommy Hilfiger
Some of the most fashion-forward polo shirts are coming from Tommy Hilfiger at the moment. Think white lace, vintage viscose, and embroidered polos in unusual prints and colour combinations. If you want a fresh take on the polo, look no further.Wear with... clashing prints
6. Fred Perry
Fred Perry’s name is synonymous with polo shirts. The late Wimbledon champion single-handedly brought polos to the nation’s attention, and his clothing brand has been serving up new versions of twin-tipped polo shirts year after year. For something a bit different, the Amy Winehouse Foundation Collection offers bold prints with unique details, all finished off with that famous Fred Perry logo and stripy collar.Wear with... an old-fashioned tennis skirt
