Wearing a polo shirt collar correctly involves ensuring a proper fit and choosing a style that suits the occasion, most commonly worn flat and either buttoned or unbuttoned.
Understanding Polo Collar Fit
A key aspect of wearing a polo shirt collar well is ensuring it fits correctly. As noted, one of the defining features of a polo shirt, the collar, should fit comfortably around your neck without being so tight that it feels like it's strangling you, but also not so loose that it looks like you're wearing the wrong size. A well-fitting collar frames the face and lies neatly against the neck and shoulders.
Standard Ways to Style the Collar
Once the fit is right, how you position the collar is a matter of style and comfort. The most common and universally accepted way is to wear the collar laying flat.
Here are the typical ways to wear a polo collar:
- Buttoned: Buttoning some or all of the buttons gives a slightly more formal or tidy appearance.
- Unbuttoned: Leaving one or two buttons unbuttoned is a relaxed and casual approach, perhaps the most popular style for everyday wear.
Buttoning Options
Consider these common buttoning styles:
- Fully Buttoned: Buttoning all buttons presents a clean, minimalist look. This is often preferred for layering under a jacket or sweater, or when aiming for a sharp, modern style.
- Top Button Unbuttoned: Leaving just the top button undone is a classic look that balances neatness with comfort.
- Top Two Buttons Unbuttoned: This offers a more relaxed V-neck shape, suitable for casual settings. Avoid unbuttoning too many buttons, as it can make the collar look sloppy or lose its shape.
Collar Positioning Tips
- Always ensure the collar lies flat against the shirt and doesn't curl awkwardly. A good quality polo shirt with a well-constructed collar is less likely to have curling issues.
- After washing, shape the collar and lay it flat to dry, or iron it carefully to maintain its structure.
Styling Summary
Here's a quick look at standard polo collar styling options:
| Style | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fully Buttoned | All buttons fastened | Formal casual, layering, neat look |
| Top Button Unbuttoned | Top button open, others fastened | Classic casual, smart-casual |
| Top Two Buttons Unbuttoned | Top two buttons open, others fastened | Relaxed casual, everyday wear |
Choosing how to wear your polo shirt collar primarily comes down to personal preference and the specific occasion, always starting with a collar that fits correctly around your neck.
