Did you know that polo shirts were originally designed for tennis players in the 1920s?
Fast forward a century, and these versatile threads have galloped far beyond the tennis court and deep into mainstream fashion. But what’s the single most awesome thing about polo shirts though? What is it that makes them special?
Because they can be dressed up or dressed down, and ooze “sexy” either way. Now you know why your apparel store should have a splendid collection of cozy polos.
However, not all your polo-loving customers may know how to wear the garment right, to perfectly nail a sexy look. Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of rocking polo shirts and looking sexy…
…starting with a Don’t that will surprise you.
DON’T: Choose Bold Patterns & Colors Always
Polo shirts really are the shapeshifters of style. But there seems to be an overuse of bold colors & patterns in polos. Those don’t count as sexy anymore. Polos with a lot of action or patterns going on them do make the wearer look youthful and vibrant. But not alluring. Solid colors like black, gray, green and blue are the best options for that.
DON’T: Choose Too Tight or Too Baggy Fit
Oversized is all the rage now. But when it comes to polo shirts and when it comes to looking sexy wearing them, the fit is important. A good majority of polo shirts that you come across in the market are cut square and boxy. The ideal polo for the sexy look is one that skims the chest, perfectly hugs your arms, and with a body neatly tailored or tapered; not too boxy or baggy or tight!
DON’T: Choose Polos With Ribbed Collars & Sleeves
I admit this comes down to personal preference. But you might have noticed the best-looking polos you have seen so far mostly had a kind of ribbed collar and sleeves that can stretch. But best-looking doesn’t mean sexy. The feature is more prevalent in cheaper polos. But the actual best ones (what we call premium polos) don’t have that. These polos don’t get stretched out and end up baggy after a few uses and washes. That’s how you determine the quality of the polo. If you want to sell polo shirts like that, source Port Authority polo shirts wholesale. The brand offers premium polo shirts at really budget-friendly prices that will go down even lower when you buy them bulk.
DON’T: Wear Polo Shirts That Hide Your Biceps Fully
This is a little detail that only the real pros know. The sexy look begins when one wears a polo that snugly fits the arm (again, not too tight) while showing a little bit of the triceps and the biceps. If your customer doesn’t have the muscle to put on display like that, it’s still alright. Polos are meant to be worn that way for the suave allure. Besides, it’s motivation to beef up some muscle right?
DON’T: Neglect the Buttons
All buttoned up? You might as well be wearing a turtleneck. All unbuttoned? Hello, chest hair! Oh, and if the undershirt shows, you just lost a lot of points.
DON’T: Wear Lengthy Polos If You Are Leaving Them Untucked
The beauty of a polo shirt is that it’s versatile enough to wear tucked or untucked. Tuck it in and pair it with denim to get a semi-formal look. But for the sexy look, it’s recommended to wear polos untucked. Therein lies the last of the DON’Ts. Never wear polos that are too lengthy, untucked. The allure is in solid polos that don’t go beyond the midway down the crotch. If it goes down the butt, you get a different look that isn’t well, sexy enough.
Helpful Sourcing Tips
Bulk Buys Save More – When stocking up on polo shirts, buy them bulk for the lowest per-piece pricing (depends on the supplier too).
Diversify Your Portfolio – Mix up your polo shirt offerings with different cuts, exotic solid colors, and buttery smooth fabrics. While you’re at it, you can also promote other garments that complement the polos. If budget is a limitation, go for tees from budget-friendly brands. Check out Comfort Colors or Port and Company t-shirts wholesale to add a little variety.
Sample Before You Commit – ALWAYS get samples before placing a big order. What looks great online might feel like sandpaper in real life.
Share Polo Wisdom
As a retailer, you’re not just selling shirts – you’re selling style. Make sure to spread the polo gospel:
- Create a “Polo Lookbook”: Show customers how versatile these shirts can be.
- Offer Styling Sessions: Host mini workshops on wearing a polo.
- Bundle Up: Create polo “starter packs” with complementary items. Polo + joggers + sneakers, anyone?
- Seasonal Showcases: Highlight how polos transition through the seasons.
Care Instructions: Teach customers how to keep their polos pristine.
Polos are like the comfort food of fashion – familiar, versatile, and always satisfying. By mastering the art of the polo, both in wearing and selling, you’re not just moving product – you’re elevating style with a lot of substance.
