Knitwear
The polo knit: the most useful shirt you're not wearing
By sneakersInn team · Updated
A knitted polo is a polo shirt made from knitted yarn instead of the usual cotton piqué, and it's the most useful shirt many men don't own. It's cool enough for Accra afternoons, smarter than a T-shirt, softer than a button-up, and works with jeans, chinos and even a light suit with no tie.
| Knitted polo | Piqué polo | Button-up shirt | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Refined, drapes softly | Sporty | Formal to smart |
| Heat | Cool, open knit | Cool | Depends on fabric |
| Under a suit | Yes, relaxed suits | No | Yes |
| Ironing | None | None | Yes |
| Best for | Smart casual, dinners, events | Weekends, sport | Office, formal |
Why is it so useful?
Because it sits exactly at smart casual, the dress code for most dinners, dates, parties and casual offices. It has a collar, which looks dressed; it's knitted, which looks considered; and it needs no ironing.
What styles are there?
- Classic button placket: two or three buttons at the neck.
- Open "resort" collar: no buttons, collar lies flat, very relaxed.
- Zip polo: short zip at the neck, sporty.
- Long sleeve: for air-conditioned rooms and evenings.
How should it fit?
Close to the body without clinging. The shoulder seam sits on your shoulder, sleeves end mid-bicep, and the hem ends around your belt so it can be worn untucked. Knits stretch, so if between sizes, choose the smaller one.
What do I wear it with?
- Navy knitted polo, stone chinos, brown loafers. The classic.
- Cream knitted polo, dark jeans, white sneakers. Easy weekend.
- Black knitted polo, black trousers, black loafers. Evening.
- Navy knitted polo under a light grey or linen suit. Smart events without a tie. See linen suits.
Tuck or untuck?
Untucked if the hem is short and straight; tucked into high-waisted trousers for a smarter look. See tucked or untucked.
Which yarn is best?
Cotton or a cotton and linen blend for heat. Fine merino for air-conditioned rooms. See knitwear fabrics compared.
How do I care for it?
Wash cold on a gentle cycle, dry flat and fold rather than hang. See how to wash and store knitwear.
Questions
Is a knitted polo smart enough for the office?
In business casual offices, yes, especially with tailored trousers.
What colours should I buy?
Navy, cream, black and olive first.