Men's cotton polo shirts crafted from hand-knitted fabrics: classic pique, herringbone, moss stitch, and stocking stitch. Short-sleeved styles with traditional or derby collars are available from Italian brands like Circolo 1901, Arovescio, and Alexander. These pieces combine the casual elegance of a polo shirt with the softness and wearability of knitwear, ideal for refined yet relaxed summer looks.
Men's polo shirts represent a hybrid garment that combines the formal structure of a shirt with the comfort of knitwear. This selection focuses on cotton knit polos crafted with Italian craftsmanship, distinct from classic jersey sports polos. Styles include pique polos with the distinctive honeycomb weave, herringbone polos with a diagonal texture, rice stitch polos with a grainy surface, and plain polos with a smooth, compact fabric. The Derby collar, featured on some styles, is distinguished from the traditional polo collar by its softer shape and slightly different opening.
Pique is the most iconic polo stitch, characterized by a raised structure that guarantees breathability and wrinkle resistance. The herringbone stitch features an elegant diagonal weave, while the moss stitch offers a textured surface that adds visual depth. The plain weave produces a smooth, uniform fabric, more formal than other weaves. All styles use quality cotton, often garment-dyed to achieve natural shades and depth of color. Finishes include mother-of-pearl or resin buttons, reinforced collars, and contrasting stitching.
Knit polos offer a softer, more snug fit than traditional sporty polos, adapting better to the body without feeling tight. They're ideal for smart-casual summer occasions: aperitifs, informal dinners, weekends at the beach, and travel. They pair perfectly with cotton chinos, tailored Bermuda shorts, or light denim. The collar allows you to maintain a polished look even without a jacket, positioning the polo halfway between a t-shirt and a casual shirt.
The classic polo features a structured collar with functional buttons, a short front opening, and a defined fit. The derby collar retains the buttoned collar but features a softer collar, often without rigid reinforcements, and an all-knit construction that makes it more similar to a lightweight sweater. Both styles share versatility and comfort, but the derby collar feels slightly more casual and relaxed.
This selection highlights Italian brands specializing in quality knitwear and casualwear: Circolo 1901 interprets the polo shirt with artisanal workmanship and sophisticated color palettes, Arovescio offers derby collar sweaters and polo shirts with garment dyes and refined finishes, Alexander offers knitted polo shirts with attention to construction details and a contemporary fit.
Pique features a honeycomb weave with regular reliefs that ensure breathability, while moss stitch has a more textured, grainy surface. Pique is more structured and formal, while moss stitch offers greater softness and a more casual look.
Knit polos pair well with beige or blue cotton chinos, tailored Bermuda shorts, light denim, or linen trousers. For footwear, choose leather sneakers, loafers, espadrilles, or leather sandals. Avoid overly sporty combinations to maintain the garment's casual elegance.
Yes, knit polos use artisanal techniques such as pique, herringbone, or moss stitch, with a construction similar to knitwear. Sporty polos are made of smooth jersey, which is lighter and more technical. Knit polos have a more refined look and are better suited to smart-casual settings.
Machine wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle, preferably inside out. Avoid high-speed spin cycles to preserve the collar's shape. Hang flat or on a hanger to maintain its fit. Iron on a medium heat if necessary, following the direction of the stitching.
The selection includes Circolo 1901, Arovescio, and Alexander, Italian brands specializing in quality knitwear and casualwear, chosen for their craftsmanship, attention to materials, and contemporary fit.
The Derby collar is more informal than the classic polo collar, ideal for smart-casual summer settings but less suitable for formal occasions. It works perfectly for happy hours, weekends, and travel, paired with cotton or denim trousers.
