It's Polo season and we know the dress code!
- Editor
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
It’s always polo season somewhere, whether you’re catching the celebs at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in Los Angeles, a Sentebale charity match at the Aspen Valley Polo Club alongside Prince Harry, or just a casual Saturday game at Newport Polo in Rhode Island. Recently, however, "a day at the polo" has rapidly become one of the most popular social events of the year and a must-attend occasion in the summer social calendar.
Polo dates back to the 6th Century BCE and its story is a fascinating one. While its precise beginnings remain unclear, it is thought that polo likely emerged somewhere between Central
Asia and the Middle East. For those unfamiliar with the sport, polo is a team game played on horseback, with the main objective being to "score goals against the opposing team". Each player uses a mallet to hit a wooden ball across a grassy field. Over the years, the game has evolved to become associated with aristocratic leisure activities.
We all remember the scene from the movie Pretty Woman where Julia Roberts’ character, Vivian Ward, appears on the field in a belted polka dot midi dress, straw hat, and white gloves. The casual, sophisticated elegance Julia displayed made us dream of attending such an exuberant and relaxed daytime soiree. Ms. Roberts’ flowing silhouette has become iconic for daytime events, easily inspiring our own style choices when dressing for a day at the Polo!
Choosing the right attire for such a sophisticated sport can be difficult. How formal should you be? How casual is too casual? What if you're standing in the sun all day? What shoes are best for stomping the divots at halftime? To gain some expert insight, we reflected on the legendary Argentine polo player, model, and all-around gentleman, Nacho Figueras.
He explains that not all matches are the same, and at any polo game, you'll probably encounter a range of attire from sport coats to T-shirts. Therefore, the best approach is to wear whatever you feel comfortable with. However, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic, where Figueras has been an ambassador for a long time, tends to be somewhat more playful. That event definitely encourages you to dress up a bit more, as the setting is very cool and upscale.
Polo - old sport that matches the old money elegance
A day at the polo is equally about fashion as it is about the game. Women's attire at polo events beautifully blends timeless style with modern trends, capturing a distinctive elegance that is both laid-back and sophisticated. Attending a polo match provides a wonderful chance to express personal fashion while honoring the sport's traditional essence. By selecting the perfect dress, matching it well with shoes and accessories, and embracing a splash of color or a striking pattern, you can make sure your outfit remains both stylish and comfortable.
Firstly, understanding the dress code is essential. Polo attire is traditionally smart-casual, but leans more towards chic and sophisticated. Women often don floral dresses, wide-brimmed hats, and comfortable yet stylish footwear.
The key is to blend practicality with poise, ensuring you can navigate grassy terrains with ease while looking effortlessly glamorous in quiet luxury style.
Dresses: The Quintessential Choice
Dresses are undoubtedly the go-to for any polo event. They are known for lightweight materials like chiffon or silk that flutter pleasingly in the breeze. The length should ideally be midi to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions on windy days. Patterns can range from subtle pastels to bold florals, depending on your personal style. If you buy an outfit from the British brand Holland Cooper, whose owner Jade is an equestrian lifestyle icon - you certainly won't go wrong.
For men there is the tradition of wearing white jeans to polo matches, whether attending or playing dates back to colonial-era polo matches in India, when players would wear lighter colors to combat the heat and sun. Today, they are a stylish option whenever attending an outdoor sporting event. Pair from Polo Ralph Lauren has just enough elastane so they stay snug and don’t sag just as good for observing a match as they are for hopping on a horse yourself.
Footwear: Comfort Meets Style
When it comes to footwear, wedge sandals are a popular choice as they provide stability and style. Flat sandals or stylish loafers are also appropriate options, combining comfort with a chic aesthetic.
For men selecting a loafer means you’re more dressed up than a sneaker, but more comfortable than a proper shoe remember, you want to seem like you’re trying, but not too hard.
Accessories: The Finishing Touches
Sunglasses are a must-have, not just for style but for comfort, given the typically sunny settings. A stylish yet functional handbag, such as a crossbody or a small tote, is ideal for keeping essentials at hand. Jewelry should be elegant but minimalistic; think delicate bracelets or a pair of understated earrings.
Fedora, Panama, boater or even sun hats, you name it the straw hat will take your look from zero to hero instantaneously. A must have item for your outdoor polo event, a large straw hat will provide you with the coverage you need to feel comfortable. Add it to your outfit and you’ll feel alluringly sophisticated all day long! When picking a hat choose a style that works best with your face shape.
To glow up men style, perfect belts that are crafted in Argentina and finished by storied New England leather maker Frank Clegg. It is often seen on the polo set’s best-dressed guys. The pattern is surprisingly wearable, and is a favorite of none other than Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge.
Polo Match Outfit Ideas
The Bold and the Beautiful:
Opt for a vibrant floral midi dress combined with leather wedge sandals. Enhance this ensemble with a minimalist gold necklace and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Classic with a Twist:
Select a linen suit in pastel shades and combine it with a white blouse. Incorporate loafers to add a classic touch of sophistication and carry a structured handbag for your essentials.
Boho Chic:
A bohemian-print maxi dress offers a blend of comfort and style. Complement it with flat sandals and a wide-brimmed straw hat. Complete the ensemble with a leather sling bag and layered necklaces.
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