Once upon a time, polo shirts were the domain of golfers and prepsters. Everything changed when successful advertising campaigns by companies like Ralph Lauren and Lacoste made us all realise how incredibly versatile this piece is. Nowadays, everyone owns – or ought to own – a polo.

But the question at hand: Can you wear your polo with a blazer as an alternative to the dress shirt?

Against: If you’re hooked on tradition there is no way you can be an advocate of the polo/blazer combo. If you’re fussy about the way your collar stands or lies under your jacket you are going to go stark raving mad trying to keep a polo’s collar anything but scrunched and messy under a blazer. This look also contradicts logical layering – if it’s too hot to be wearing long sleeves then why are you wearing a jacket? It’s just so easy to go wrong. And with a polo’s short sleeves – or any short sleeved shirt for that matter – you’ll never get that edge of cuff showing at your wrists.

For: If you persist on wearing a polo with your blazer then it’s imperative that you take cognisance of the following pointers: Don’t wear a traditionally structured business suit jacket or blazer over your polo. You need to opt for one that is more relaxed and less formal. Make sure the polo you wear is a slim-fit and does not bulk under your jacket. Keep the colours of the jacket and polo light and summery. Don’t button the top button, either – or you’ll end up looking like an SABC Sports Presenter. And the cardinal rule – never, ever pop your collar. And make sure your collar points are kept inside your jacket collar at all times.

Oh, and gentlemen please; that shirt your Mom bought you with the bold stripes, regal screen print accents, club badges is not a polo shirt.

Neil Doveton is a menswear expert and former fashion director at Men’s Health. He has had over 20 years experience in the fashion industry.

Got a style query? Email us at onll ne@condenast.co.za and we’ll get it sorted.

Image taken by Tommy Ton and originally published on GQ.com

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