17 Modern Ways to Rock the Polo Shirt Sans the 'Dad' Subtext
When it comes to polo shirts, it's not all yacht clubs and school uniforms. A different type of polo—a knit polo, to be exact—swaps out standard cut-and-sew cotton piqué for a looser, sweater-like look and feel. Think: Less country club, more Mad Men California vacation.
These shirts (sometimes ribbed around the waist and sleeve) have a throwback, '70s vibe made modern with slim cuts and breathable fabrics. Here are 17 of the coolest ones.
Dries Van Noten Slim Fit Double Faced Cotton Polo
This Dries Van Noten is everything you could want in an old-school polo. Take note of the burgundy and saffron colors and athletic stripes—everything that's great about retro, done exactly right.
Orley Brooks Striped Merino Wool Polo
Knit polos—sometimes referred to as sweater polos—feel very '70s. This Orley one in olive green and cream really takes you back (without veering into costume territory.)
Prada Slim Fit Jacquard Knit Wool Polo Shirt
Prada's jacquard polo will look sharp paired with a suede jacket, or on its own with your favorite chinos.
Gucci Slim Fit Striped Cotton and Cashmere Polo
If you like the feel of a preppy polo, Gucci's cashmere take is a fresh alternative. Wear it under your navy blazer to give it a little extra personality.
Kent & Curwen Striped Polo Shirt
This jewel-tone striped shirt looks unexpected (in a good way) for summer, and will also mesh easily with your fall wardrobe.
Editions M.R. Ribbed Knit Cotton Polo Shirt
Pretty sure this was the standard in the '70s. We're about it.
Burberry Striped Cotton Blend Polo
You can never go wrong with a navy-and-white striped polo. The linen fabric is great for looking cool in the heat.
Canali Contrast Polo Shirt
Canali's contrast polo manages to be bold without using any over-the-top colors or patterns.
Dsquared Stripe Open Collar Polo
Dsquared2's wide open collar and thick stripe feels vintage, and the thin cotton will keep you cool.
Orlebar Brown Felix Polo
Pack this lightweight polo for every beach weekend trip.
Maison Margiela Short Sleeved Cotton Weave Polo
Pair it with black trousers and minimal sneakers—the pattern is interesting enough to stand on its own.
Rag & Bone Jason Cotton Polo
Try it with chinos in a dusty earth tone and a pair of slip-on sneakers.
Selected Homme Pink Ribbed Knitted Polo
Pink might not be the first color polo you'd go for, but you should consider it. This rusted shade wears more like a neutral, too.
Thom Browne Boat Patterned Knitted Wool Blend Polo
Nautical, but in a cool way. Pair this polo with bright white sneakers to make the sailboat detailing pop.
Tod's Color Block Knitted Cotton Polo Shirt
The wave finish on this Tod's shirt brings a little something extra to the simple color blocking.
Tomorrowland Contrast Stitch Cotton Polo
The ribbing around the bottom of this polo is a subtle detail that elevates it to a whole new level.
The White Briefs Maier Cotton Polo Shirt
The simplicity and accessible price make for an easy alternative to your favorite T-shirt.
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com.
* Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.
