Polo shirts have done a 360 this year, shedding their rugby-boy stereotype and remerging as the unlikely addition to any fashion person's wardrobe. A shirt that was once associated with PE kits and allegiance to a sports team has re-invented itself to match today's sporty-chic aesthetic - and brands have followed suit. Last year Nike x Jacquemus collaborated, turning ten pieces of technical gear into a sophisticated and sleek collection. Chanel's cruise collection back in 2023 leaned heavily into F1 aesthetic with racing stripes and checkerboard aplenty, and let's not forget Euros fever, which even had Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid repping their best football shirts.
However, if you don't want to go full sports dad, you'll be glad to know that 2025 has brought a more refined, wearable version of the sportswear trend. Uniqlo's Piqué Polo Shirt, £24.90 is a prime example, a far more versatile and chic update on the trend. Part of the Uniqlo x JW Anderson spring/summer 2025 collaboration, it features a relaxed fit, preppy collar, embroidered logo, and a cheerful pop of colour - perfect for the warmer months ahead.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
Made from a smooth, pique fabric that's both lightweight and comfortable, Uniqlo x JW Anderson's polo shirt is a staple for any summer wardrobe - and is also unisex. Whether paired with high waisted jorts and boat shoes, or with a pair of jeans and Birkenstocks, the polo shirt might just be the cool top you're missing.
The navy blue stripe shirt acts like a neutral when paired with warm creams or other primary colours - try tucking it into wide-leg trousers or a wrap skirt to start. The green colourway, on the other hand, is perfect for styling with earthy tones - think a pair of beige Dickies Work Pants or barrel leg jeans, finished with chunky loafers. If you're on a mission to lean into dopamine dressing this summer, opt for Uniqlo's polo shirt in the red stripe, clashing it with a more feminine piece, like a lace or bubble skirt.
Uniqlo’s polo shirt moves away from the loud football jerseys and bold rugby shirts, distilling the sportswear trend into something genuinely wearable for everyday life. As with most of Uniqlo’s collections, the focus here is on cut, fabric, wearability, and simplicity - rather than chasing fleeting trends. Explore the alternative colourways below.
Shop: Uniqlo's Polo Shirt In Alternative Colours
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
The Uniqlo x JW Anderson polo shirt is also available in a bright red stripe colourway.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
The final colour of the trio is this a olive and sage green. Style with the buttons undone and with jeans and a bright pair of trainers.
Main image credit: Instagram/@elenagiadaa
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look - yes, she can tell you exactly where a specific coat is from. When not writing, shopping or scrolling Instagram (find hers here), Gemma will likely be dreaming up her next holiday (and what she's going to wear).