Casual and Professional Polo Shirts

What you wear to work has a direct impact on your image. More than that, it also reflects the company’s values. That’s why it’s crucial to select attire that fits in properly with the dress code and doesn’t venture from what’s considered appropriate in your field.

One of the most versatile garments is the ubiquitous custom polo for work. Not only is the polo shirt reliable and timeless, but it’s also easy to mix and match with other pieces to create a seamless wardrobe for the entire staff. It also happens to work well in both casual and professional environments. To pull it off, however, you need to make sure that you select the right style and structure. Here are three categories to keep in mind as you determine what’s best.

In a Professional Environment

If you work in a polished environment with a fairly strict dress code, you might feel that you’re limited to traditional business attire for men and women. While it’s true that you may need to stay within certain parameters, you don’t need to rule out polo shirts entirely. The trick is all in how you style it — and in the type of polo shirt that you select.

First, bear in mind that you definitely need to think formal. An office with rigid and conservative dress code requirements isn’t likely to welcome a pair of casual chinos or khakis into the fold. But can you make a polo shirt work with, say, a pair of tailored pants and a blazer? Absolutely! You can button up a blazer over a solid-colored polo shirt. It’s best to select something in either a tonal hue that blends in well with your suit or in a contrasting color if you prefer to wear something lighter. If that’s the case, try a white or a pale blue — anything else might not fit in well in a professional space.

It’s not customary to wear neckties with polo shirts, which is something that you should bear in mind. If you feel like you can’t get away with that, you may need to opt for a classic button-front shirt instead. Otherwise, a tonal polo shirt will help you establish a sleek and streamlined effect that contributes to a professional look from head to toe.

In a Casual Environment

It’s generally easier to wear a polo shirt in a more casual environment. In fact, the top is a great addition to any selection of custom business workwear. Some managers may want to have the company’s name, logo, or both elements embroidered to promote the brand. That’s particularly important for professionals who work in public-facing environments that involve communicating with existing and prospective clients throughout the day.

It’s also a good idea for employees to wear logo-embroidered tops to promotional and marketing events. These are opportunities for the staff to help shine a bright light on the company, call attention to services and products, and help establish the brand. It creates a more cohesive effect, too, when everyone in the company wears polo shirts in the same color.

Everyone will recognize that the group is affiliated with one another, and that can contribute to a more professional vibe even if you work for a very casual company. If you’re working with others, it’s key to ensure that everyone dresses similarly. Matching custom uniform work shorts or pants, for example, helps convey a streamlined image.

In a Business-Casual Environment

If you work in a business-casual environment, you’re in luck: polo shirts are practically made for you! Among the most common pieces of custom business casual attire for work is polo shirts, tailored pants, and skirts.

The beauty of dressing for this type of workplace is that you can have some fun with your look. Opt for a bright, jewel-toned polo shirt and pair it with a pencil skirt and a complimentary cardigan. Finish the look with a pair of comfortable ballet flats. Or try a neutral-colored polo shirt with a pair of darker pants for a flattering and timeless look that wears well at any time of the year.

General Styling Tips

Another reason polo shirts are so practical? They’re available in so many colors and styles! You can wear them year-round, thanks to lighter weight fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable during spring and summer with anything from custom business skirts to shorts.

When it’s cooler outside, swap those shorter sleeves for a longer-sleeve style that presents a polished image. These look great with a pair of tailored pants, a belt, and dress shoes, and works just as well in a more casual space with relaxed slacks. Invest in a few different colors so that you can play with different looks year-round. You’ll love the way this versatile top makes a solid place for itself in your work wardrobe!