Polo: A History Rich in Twists and Turns

The polo shirt, that iconic garment that's both sporty and chic, occupies a special place in our wardrobes. A symbol of casual elegance, it has conquered the fashion world thanks to its versatility, allowing you to transition from a casual look to a more sophisticated style with ease. But do you really know its history? From its distant origins to its status as a fashion icon, the polo shirt has spanned eras and cultures, adapting to trends while retaining its essence. Let's dive into the fascinating history of this timeless garment.

From Persian Origins to Indian Polo Grounds

The history of polo begins long before the appearance of the garment itself. The game of polo has its roots in Persia, around the 6th century BC. This equestrian sport was later discovered by the English during the colonial period in India, where it quickly gained popularity before spreading throughout the world.

Contrary to what its name might suggest, polo (the garment) did not originate on Western polo fields. Its history dates back to 19th century India, where British polo players stationed in Manipur discovered the uniform of the local players. Observing the practicality of this garment, British officers quickly incorporated it into their own attire for this sport. They wore lightweight, short-sleeved shirts made from a breathable cotton fabric, ideal for the region's hot and humid climate. Seduced by the comfort and practicality of this garment, the British officers adopted it and brought it back to England.

At that time, the polo shirt was a loose-fitting garment with a round neck and short sleeves, a far cry from the version we know today. It was often made of striped jersey, inspired by the attire of Indian aristocrats. This garment, originally designed for equestrian sport, quickly became associated with the British elite and royalty.

The invention of the button-down collar

A notable development came in the late 19th century when John E. Brooks of the famous American brand Brooks Brothers noticed that polo players were fastening their collars with pins or buttons to prevent them from flapping in the wind. Returning to the United States, he introduced the button-down collar to his dress shirts, launching the first widely marketed button-down polo shirt in 1896.

From Tennis to Fashion: The Rise of Modern Polo

While polo has its roots in equestrian sport, it owes its worldwide popularity to tennis. In the early 20th century, tennis players wore long-sleeved shirts and ties, an impractical outfit for the sport. In the 1920s, renowned French tennis player René Lacoste found traditional tennis outfits too stiff and uncomfortable. Inspired by a polo-playing friend, the Marquis of Cholmondeley, he designed a short-sleeved pique cotton shirt with a flat collar and button placket. This lighter and more breathable design offered players greater freedom of movement.

Lacoste added his personal touch by embroidering a crocodile on the chest, a nod to his nickname "The Crocodile." This iconic logo has become synonymous with the Lacoste brand, which marketed the polo shirt across Europe and North America since the 1930s.

At the same time, Lewis Lacey, a Canadian merchant and polo player, began producing polo shirts embroidered with a polo player's emblem, a design originating from the Hurlingham Polo Club near Buenos Aires. This initiative also contributed to the popularization of polo.

Over the decades, the polo shirt has evolved into a fashion item in its own right. In the 1950s, it was considered a status symbol, worn by athletes and celebrities. Icons like James Dean and Paul Newman helped popularize the polo shirt, giving it a rebellious and laid-back image.

Polo in Popular Culture

The polo shirt has also influenced popular culture, appearing in film, music, and art. Iconic figures such as Steve McQueen, Pelé, and Prince William have been photographed wearing polo shirts, reinforcing its timeless and versatile image. Music groups such as One Direction and artists such as Gwen Stefani have also incorporated the polo shirt into their style, influencing fashion trends.

Polo Today: A Classic Reinvented

Today, the polo shirt is a staple of both men's and women's fashion. Its versatility allows it to adapt to any occasion, from casual looks to more sophisticated styles. Ready-to-wear brands offer a wide variety of polo shirts, available in a multitude of colors, materials, and cuts. These include short-sleeved and long-sleeved polo shirts.

Current trends emphasize oversized polo shirts, slim fits, innovative materials, and unique details. Polo shirts are made from a variety of materials, from traditional cotton and polyester to breathable, UV-resistant technical fabrics. Polo shirts can be worn with jeans and sneakers, as well as chinos and loafers. They can be paired with a blazer for a more formal look or worn with shorts for a casual summer outfit.

The polo shirt has become a key element of the "athleisure" trend, which blends sportswear with more formal pieces to create a look that is both comfortable and stylish.

The polo shirt, born on the sports field, has conquered the fashion world to become a must-have garment. Its eventful history is a testament to its ability to adapt to the times and trends. A symbol of relaxed elegance, it can be used to create a variety of looks, from the most casual to the most sophisticated. Today, the polo shirt continues to reinvent itself, offering a variety of styles for all tastes and occasions. Whether you're a fan of the classic look or a trend-setter, the polo shirt will find its place in your wardrobe.

Do not hesitate to discover our polo shirt collection on our e-commerce site to find the model that suits you!