Interesting Origins on the Polo Shirt!

Origins on the Tennis Court

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tennis players adhered to a strict dress code known as “tennis whites.” This attire included long-sleeved white button-up shirts, flannel trousers, and ties.
However, this traditional outfit posed practical challenges during play. The long sleeves rolled down, the stiff collars were uncomfortable, and the overall ensemble hindered movement.

René Lacoste, the French tennis champion, decided to revolutionize tennis attire. In 1926, he introduced a game-changing garment at the U.S. Open: the short-sleeved, loosely-knit piqué cotton shirt.
Key features of Lacoste’s design:
- Comfort: The shirt was lightweight and breathable, allowing players to move freely.
- Collar: The unstarched, flat, protruding collar could be worn upturned to protect the neck from the sun.
- Tail: The shirt-tail was longer in the back than in the front, preventing it from pulling out of trousers or shorts during play.
- Crocodile Emblem: Lacoste added a crocodile emblem (a nickname he embraced) to the left breast, creating the iconic logo we recognize today.

Lacoste’s innovative shirt mitigated the problems of traditional tennis attire, and it quickly gained popularity among players.
In 1933, Lacoste partnered with André Gillier to market the shirt in Europe and North America. They formed the company Chemise Lacoste.
The crocodile logo became synonymous with the brand, and the polo shirt transcended sports, becoming a fashion statement.

Polo players also adopted the comfortable and stylish shirt, appreciating its practical features.
Brooks Brothers, inspired by the trend, began producing similar shirts in 1896.
Today, the polo shirt is a versatile wardrobe essential worn by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Polo shirts come in various fabrics, colors, and styles.
They remain a symbol of casual elegance, suitable for both athletic pursuits and everyday wear.