There shouldn’t be a lot of excess fabric around your chest and stomach, especially if you’re a smaller framed guy.

If you have a belly, it’s okay to go with a little more of a relaxed fit, but don’t make the mistake of wearing a baggy shirt to hide your weight.

AI01

This strategy results in a shirt that’s too big everywhere else, and it does the exact opposite of your intended effect.

Finally, the length: your polo should go past your waistband and stop right around mid fly (2-3 inches below the belt).

Do polos shrink?

Since most polo shirts are made from 100% cotton, or a mostly cotton blend, you can expect some shrinkage.

Some brands pre-shrink their polos, so be sure to check the product description page.

If a polo is not pre-shrunk and is made from cotton, you can expect it to shrink 1-2? up (length, not width) depending on how much heat it’s exposed to.

Can you get polo shirts shortened at the tailor?

Yes, you can get a polo shortened at the tailor. You can also get them taken in if they’re too baggy.

Be sure to go to a tailor that has experience working with knit garments. Polos have some natural stretch, so they require slightly different equipment and skills to alter.

Where to Buy Shorter Polo Shirts

If you don’t want to gamble with shrinkage (heh) or go to the tailor, here are some brands that sell polo shirts for shorter guys.

Ash & Erie

This is one of the best fitting polo shirts I’ve found so far. The length is great, and the fit is slim enough for my build.

Color choices are pretty limited, but I tend to stick with the basics anyway. The button chest pocket is a nice detail.

If you’re under 5’9? and haven’t tried Ash & Erie, I highly recommend giving them a chance.