T-Shirts vs. Polo Shirts
A few things spring to mind when we consider the advantages and disadvantages of polo shirts vs. t-shirts. It's vital to note the differences in features and attributes of both shirts because they'll ultimately assist you decide which to wear. Let's get right to work!
What Is The Definition Of A Polo Shirt?
The polo shirt is considered to flawlessly bridge the gap between a t-shirt and a traditional oxford shirt. To put it another way, it combines the elegance of a dress shirt with the comfort of a t-shirt. The polo shirt has its origins in polo games, but it was only through tennis that it became well-known. This is thanks to René Lacoste, a prominent tennis player who popularized the polo shirt in the 1930s and catapulted it to its current iconic stature.
Polo shirts are made of piqué, which is a knitted double weave of cotton. Piqué has a breathable, elastic, high-quality, and absorbent waffle structure. A modest collar, a seamless button placket, and a short side slit for further mobility are all features of classic polo shirts. Polo shirts are a casual yet classy option for outfits that need a little more refinement and finesse.
What Exactly Is A T-Shirt?
First and foremost, let's discuss a fashion staple: the t-shirt. What was formerly solely worn as an undershirt in the nineteenth century is now arguably the most popular fashion staple of all time. It's worth noting that this necessity only became popularity after WWII. Actors such as Marlon Brando and James Dean popularized it in the 1950s. The t-shirt has become a pop culture symbol and a fashion must-have since then. It's usually made of jersey and comes in a variety of forms and colors.
T-shirts with a round neck, short sleeves, and a light material that drapes nicely about the body are the most common. The t-shirt is simple and adaptable (depending on the color, print, and fit) and may be worn with any outfit. When monotone colors are used, it really pops. And, as an aside, do you know why it's called a "T"-shirt? It gets its name from the T-shape of the torso – that's all there is to it.
T-shirts vs. Polo Shirts: What's The Difference?
The finish of the collar, or neckline, is probably the most noticeable distinction between polo shirts and t-shirts. The polo shirt features a stand-up collar with a button placket, whereas the T-shirt normally has a plain round neck. Another significant distinction is the type of material used. While both shirts are typically composed of cotton, the polo shirt is knitted cotton (piqué) while the t-shirt is woven cotton (jersey). T-shirts made of woven jersey have a silky feel and a free-flowing silhouette. Knitted piqué, on the other hand, provides polo shirts a more solid look while still remaining flexible and useful. More information on the technical cotton piqué knit may be found here.
T-Shirt Advantages & Disadvantages
T-shirts have a lot of advantages: they're cool, they're simple, and they (nearly) always work. T-shirts, especially in traditional white, are also highly flexible. Tees can also look rather elegant when worn in the proper combination. Tucked into a pair of chinos or a pair of rolled-up tapered jeans, for example. T-shirts, on the other hand, can occasionally appear overly casual and unstyled. A tee rapidly transforms into loungewear when worn big with sweatpants, for example.
Furthermore, if the t-shirt becomes wrinkles due to inferior material, it will undoubtedly appear sloppy. As a result, for formal events, it's generally advisable to play it safe and leave your t-shirt at home in favor of an oxford shirt or polo shirt. Finally, keep an eye out for printed, brilliantly colored t-shirts.