Why every wardrobe needs a knitted polo shirt

What does ‘knitted’ really mean?

The word knitted literally means ‘knitted’. So a knitted polo shirt is a polo made from knitted fabric, rather than the classic piqué fabric you’ll know from many standard polos. Thanks to its knitted structure, the fabric often feels softer and gives the shirt a more luxurious, refined look. That makes a knitted polo a stylish choice that sits between casual and formal.

What can I expect from a knitted polo shirt?

• Comfort and ease
  Knitted fabrics move with you and often feel softer on the skin than cotton. They also crease far less, making them ideal for your suitcase or a long day at the office.
• Refined silhouette
  Thanks to the fluid drape and clean finishing, your silhouette looks more streamlined. Solid styles in dark or neutral tones in particular create a slim, modern effect.
• Relaxed look
  The collar of a knitted polo usually sits softer and drapes more naturally than that of stiffer cotton polo shirts, giving you a more effortless look.

What should I look for when choosing?

To enjoy your purchase for years to come, a few details are crucial:

• Check that the sleeves and hem of the polo are finished with a sturdy ribbed cuff. This helps the polo sit neatly on the hips and arms, creating a more refined silhouette.
• Pearl buttons or horn buttons are often a sign of higher quality than plastic alternatives. Also check that they’re securely attached.
• The fit can be close, but not tight. Make sure the shoulder seam sits exactly on the edge of your shoulder.

How to wear a knitted polo?

The strength of a knitted polo lies in its versatility. Here are three ways to style it:

• Modern Office look
  Swap your business shirt for a fine-knit polo in a neutral shade like navy, anthracite, or beige. Wear it with a smart chino or a flannel tailored trouser. Tuck the polo into your trousers for a streamlined silhouette and finish with a pair of refined loafers or minimalist white sneakers.
• Riviera Casual look
  Go for a polo with an open collar (no buttons) and a substantial ribbed cuff at the sleeves, in a standout colour or with vertical stripes. Pair it with lightweight linen trousers or shorts that fall just above the knee. For a truly sporty vintage vibe, you can subtly turn up the sleeve cuff once.
• Layered winter look
  You can also wear a longsleeve knitted polo as a stylish alternative to a turtleneck. Wear a merino wool version under an overshirt or a denim jacket. The collar sitting over your outer layer instantly adds an interesting dimension to your outfit.

Care tips for knitted polos

• Always check the care label first for specific instructions.
• Turn the polo inside out to protect the outside from friction, wear and fading.
• Wash at max. 30–40 °C on a low spin (max. 600 rpm) and use a mild detergent.
• Dry knitted polos flat and store them folded in your wardrobe to prevent the fit from stretching.
• Preferably use a (handheld) steamer to remove creases.