What To Wear To A Polo Match
Sophie Diego
Table of Contents
The ‘what do I wear?’ dilemma is typically associated with first dates, Instagram photoshoots, and extravagant ceremonies.
We can’t say the same for athletic games, given that players are usually focused on winning rather than fashion. That being said, clothing plays a big role in forming the players’ image while enhancing their performance.
Efficiency, speed, and movement are important when it comes to finding athleticwear.
On the other hand, style also plays a pivotal role, given that you want to look composed for the final team pic. And this is especially true for horseback ball games. So this leaves many competitors wondering what to wear to a polo match.
Save your brainstorming energy; you’ll need that for the game. We’ll show you what to wear to a polo match using 11 outfit ideas.
Hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll have the answers to these questions:
- What is polo?
- What are some classic polo outfits?
- Where can I buy polo outfits men can wear?
- What types of women’s polo attire can I buy?
What Is A Polo Match?
Polo is a horseback ball game that consists of two opposing teams competing against each other. Players must score by hitting a small ball with a mallet into the other opponent’s goal.
Instead of running, competitors have the advantage of a trained horse. Polo is typically called a gentleman’s sport and is played in several countries—such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and France.
History Of Polo
The origins of polo date all the way back to the 6th century in Persia, Iran. At the time, it was far from glamorous, given that it was used as a training regimen for the king’s cavalry.
As the sport developed, soldiers and spectators found potential in polo. As a result, it became a national game played by the nobility. Thanks to immigration and globalization, this competitive pastime reached the likes of China and Japan.
Today, most associate polo with the United Kingdom. But this country didn’t start playing polo until the 19th century.
British tea planters in Assam, India, were the first to play the sport. Soon enough, informal matches were held between the two opposing countries.
England and polo quickly became intertwined, and the game developed a prestigious image. Now associated with the elite, this ancient pastime is almost like a ‘quaint cup of tea’ for many esteemed athletes and fans.
What To Wear To A Polo Match
Given that most players compete in teams, it’s only natural to assume that organizations supply their athletes with uniforms.
Professionals and amateurs aren’t given much freedom in terms of fashion, since they’re required to wear pants, simple tops, and riding boots only. Sorry, trendsetters—it looks like you’ll have to sit out on this one.
But for those looking to add some style to their traditional uniform, we suggest you stay tuned. We’ll teach you what to wear to a polo match using various outfit ideas.
11 Outfit Ideas To Wear To A Polo Match
Modernized sportswear is typically stripped of class. Bright neons and ugly graphics can easily go out of style, which is why we recommend sticking to traditional silhouettes.
For instance, this vintage-inspired look is emblematic of Victorian dress and old-school nobility.
It features a series of white shirts, black coats, leather belts, and a simple pair of brown riding boots.
To those unfamiliar with the sport, it may seem counterintuitive to wear white for field games. But hey, don’t forget that polo is generally known as a gentleman’s sport.
There’s an element of romance found in the polo sport. The thought of galloping through the rural British countryside on horseback is a fantastical image, one that requires a stylish set of clothes.
If you’re looking to channel your inner prairie girl, we recommend this outfit for casual games only.
Composed of a white collared tee, matching pants, black riding boots, and a decorative headscarf, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ contender is strictly reserved for leisurely strolls.
Polo classic attire usually consists of a tweed jacket, form-fitting pants, and a white collared shirt underneath. If you prefer vintage clothing over modernized silhouettes, we highly recommend this number.
The coffee cream trousers paired with the espresso coat exude professionalism and class, which is what you’d want as an elite athlete. The cream cravat and the riding boots act as the final cherry on top since they help balance out the brown tones of the outfit.
Most players don’t have to worry about what to wear to a polo match. As previously stated, sports organizations will usually supply uniforms for their athletes.
But in the event that you’re geared up for an informal competition, there’s no harm in opting for the old English look.
This sophisticated OOTD features a fitted blazer, a white shirt, tie, cream pants, and brown riding boots. Classy in aesthetic, this is the kind of outfit to wear for post–game photoshoots.
Not fond of stiff blazers and ties? Thank god for spandex and elastane, as modernized athleticwear has evolved past tweed and wool. If you’re looking to up your performance, you can never go wrong with a simple tank top and a pair of fitted pants.
Complemented with traditional riding boots, this is what to wear to a polo match if you’re just warming up. We highly recommend wearing an equestrian helmet to help complete the final look.
In every professional game, there’s at least one dark horse lurking around. They typically reserve their strength and speed until the end of the match. If you consider yourself an underdog on your team, we suggest this mysterious ensemble.
Outfitted with a black zip-up top, fitted pants, and riding boots, this OOTD is definitely a far cry from the traditional white garb worn by many elite players. Obviously, finding a ‘matching horse’ is not a requirement, but can you imagine this look paired with a black stallion?
Obviously, we couldn’t exclude Prince Harry in our ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide. He’s a fan of the sport, so it’s only natural that he’d show up in his best uniform.
Outfitted with a color-blocked polo shirt, white pants, and a pair of brown riding boots, it’s a refreshing option compared to the stiff and stark nature of royal attire.
Accessories are not encouraged for sports, but you can probably get away with an enamel pin of your team mascot.
Classic in silhouette, a good majority of polo match attire is form-fitting. It’s not for vanity purposes—it’s because tailored clothing is less likely to drag. But, for fashion’s sake, the snug fit complements your figure nicely.
This ‘what to wear to a polo match’ contender is no exception, as it features a black graphic tee, white pants, and an equestrian hat. Assumably worn with riding boots, you can’t get more traditional than this.
British weather is notoriously known to be muggy and dull. That said, this isn’t an excuse for players to get a raincheck.
If the day calls for slight mist and light sprinkles, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide recommends a simple windbreaker.
Waterproof in material, this outfit can help you keep dry in wet climates. Of course, you don’t need to worry about footwear, given the advantage of being on horseback. So a regular pair of riding boots will do.
Perfect for late fall, this outfit features a gray collared shirt, white pants, and a pair of brown riding boots. It’s a simple ensemble to don, especially if you’re not fond of uptight blazers and ties.
Accentuated with a vintage duffle bag, it’s a more glamorous option compared to outdated sports jerseys and track pants. This ladies and gentlemen is what to wear to a polo match if the game happens to fall on hump day.
Black is the safest option when it comes to outfit coordination. It’s known to blend with any aesthetic, such as equestrian attire. This OOTD is no exception, as it features a cable-knit turtleneck, trousers, riding boots, and matching equipment.
Considered a great ensemble for autumn, this look can help you seem mysterious and professional while out on the field.
What Type Of Polo Outfits Can You Get?
Finding the perfect polo outfit heavily depends on your performance style and current aesthetic. In most cases, sports teams are usually unified through fashion, which doesn’t provide much room for clothing diversity.
But for those who are given freedom in terms of outfit coordination, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide will share some trendy OOTDs worth considering.
- The team jersey look: Considered the go-to uniform for many professional players, reputable organizations will typically supply outfits for athletes to wear. This usually includes a pair of white pants.
- The tailored equestrian: Outfitted with a black blazer, white pants, and a clean button-up shirt, this professional ensemble screams elegance and class.
- The Vogue look: This specific outfit is not usually worn during serious polo matches, but it does make for a great Instagram pic. If anything, designers take inspiration from traditional uniforms but typically leave performance and practicality at home.
How To Choose The Best Polo Outfits
As previously mentioned, players don’t have to concern themselves when it comes to outfit coordination. Matching sets are common in sports teams, especially if you’re representing an organization or country.
Obviously, there’s a clear difference between a casual set of workout clothes and professional attire. If you’re gearing up for training, we’ll discuss some factors to consider when shopping for performancewear.
Material quality, comfort, design, performance, and price play a pivotal role in athleticwear. Let’s discuss fabric choice first.
Polo outfits are typically form-fitting and flexible to help allow movement. Textiles such as spandex, elastane, nylon, and polyester are used by many reputable brands in place of traditional cotton.
As you’ve probably already noticed, some of the ensembles we featured are quite stiff in nature, since those are reserved for exclusive games and serious matches held by the nobility.
If you happen to compete in these events, then you’re probably on the lookout for tweed and wool.
Comfort depends heavily on material composition. Compared to other sports, polo requires the least amount of movement.
Most players use their upper body strength to perform tasks, so arm and torso flexibility is crucial. With that in mind, it’s important to find a top that feels easy to move around in.
Design is typically considered an afterthought for many elite players. Nevertheless, it may play a pivotal role in forming an athlete’s image and reputation.
We recommend sticking to traditional colors such as brown, white, and black. Bright hues and busy patterns are typically not worn in polo sports, as this competitive pastime is often seen as elegant and sophisticated.
Unfortunately, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide can’t provide an accurate estimate on price. It honestly depends on what you require, your personal budget, and the brand itself.
How To Style Polo Outfits
Accessorization is not considered a priority for many professional athletes. That said, we understand if you’re not fond of the ‘matchy-matchy’ aesthetic.
For those in need of a bit of spice, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide will provide some styling tips for trendsetting players.
- Riding gloves: Considered a great way to protect your hands from rope burn, it’s also a glamorous accessory for equestrian-based trendsetters.
- Cravats: If you really want to go old-school, we recommend swapping your traditional tie for a decorative cravat. We suggest opting for basic white instead of patterns.
- Headscarves: Gearing up for a casual match? If so, you can never go wrong with a stylish headscarf in place of a baseball cap.
- Enamel pins: Loose jewelry is typically discouraged for sports matches. But for those in need of some additional bling, we recommend a decorative enamel pin instead of a necklace.
- Embroidery: Personalized logos, quotes, and images are considered an excellent way to differentiate yourself from the team.
- Stud earrings: Chandeliers and hoops are not traditionally worn in polo matches. However, a pair of diamond studs can act as a more secure substitute.
Fashion Tips To Avoid With Polo Outfits
Grass fields are no runway. When it comes to polo sports, most players stick to simple garments in place of showy outfits.
At first glance, it’s a rather boring assortment of clothes—but it’s plain for a reason. Loose accessories, dragging skirts, and unnecessary frills can easily hinder an athlete’s performance.
In need of some additional specifics? If so, this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide will share some fashion tips to avoid.
- Loose jewelry: Necklaces, dangling earrings, bracelets, and multiple rings can easily get lost during polo matches. If you’re insistent on wearing accessories, we recommend tight-fitting alternatives such as stud earrings.
- Dresses: There’s a good reason why most players prefer pants over skirts. Long gowns are at risk of getting dirty. On the other hand, minis have a tendency to ride up.
- Sneakers: Riding boots help protect the player’s feet from the abrasive nature of the saddle. So, we don’t recommend donning your streetwear shoes on horseback.
- Revealing clothing: Plunging necklines, off-the-shoulder tops, and spaghetti straps are not worn for serious polo matches.
- Bright colors: As previously mentioned, polo is typically known as a gentleman’s sport. Also known for its sophisticated tweeds and button-ups, it’s considered poor taste to turn up in rave orange.
- Streetwear: This fashion tip seems self-explanatory, but we thought to include it for those unfamiliar with the sport. Jeans, hoodies, flip-flops, and other ‘casual’ garments are not worn for polo matches.
How To Take Care Of Polo Outfits
Serious players will often reuse their uniforms for future matches. With that in mind, it’s important for athletes to implement a care and maintenance routine when it comes to clothing.
Below, we’ll provide some tips and tricks on how to clean your performance wear.
- Brush off excess dirt with a microfiber cloth: This applies to leather boots and helmets.
- Separate colors from whites: Unless you love faintly dyed creams, we recommend dividing your clothes by hue before throwing them in the washing machine.
- Wash in cold water with gentle detergent: Harsh solutions such as hot water and bleach may ruin the quality of the fabric.
- Air dry or tumble low: We encourage you to double-check the laundry tag to see if the garment is machine-friendly.
Best Places To Buy Polo Outfits
Before this ‘what to wear to a polo match’ guide ends, we’d like to leave our readers with a few store recommendations.
- Ralph Lauren
- Amazon
- Simons
- Sporting Life
- Nordstrom
Final Thoughts
In all seriousness, you really shouldn’t have to worry about what to wear to a polo match. Instead, you should direct all of your concerns to the game itself.
That said, we don’t recommend opting for just any old outfit. Performance and confidence depend heavily on clothing, which explains the high demand for peak athletic wear on the market.
From tailored blazer coats to slim-fit zip-ups, we’re confident that our top 11 list has supplied enough inspiration for polo match after match. Without further ado, we wish you the best of luck with both your outfit coordination and your game.
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