Introduction

The long sleeve polo shirt is an item that is never out of fashion, just more out of favour. There are periods where it’s considered a legitimate wardrobe essential, but then it quickly fades from vogue again.

In this respect it’s similar to the likes of the denim jacket and the Fair Isle knit – each of these pieces enjoys their ups and downs but are always in the picture, sartorially speaking.

Often underestimated, as a cold-weather and transitional tool the long-sleeved polo scores highly and it can be worked into your outfits in a number of ways. From a simple base layer to a knitwear replacement, today we showcase five distinct styling approaches, all of which exude a sense of timelessness.

The Long Sleeve Polo

The polo shirt is perhaps the perfect smart-casual piece. Its clean lines and the addition of a collar give off a smart, refined feel yet the softer material and cut ensure it never comes across as stuffy.

Able to be dressed up or down effortlessly dependent on the occasion, the modern style-conscious gent will almost certainly own a selection of classic, neutral polo shirts. Considered year-round staples, they look just as great in summer with shorts as they do dressed up with tweed trousers and a blazer during the colder months.

However, the long sleeve polo is arguably more versatile and appropriate during autumn/winter than its short-sleeved counterpart. Perfect for layering underneath knitwear, blazers or outerwear, the longer sleeves help retain warmth and allow the piece to be utilised as a standalone top layer during the transition into spring.

In terms of how one should fit? The answer is exactly the same as a short-sleeved version: cut slim through the body to create the sharp, clean lines you need to pair with more formal attire and end approximately halfway down the trouser fly (allowing it to be tucked in, if necessary).