Give Your Button-Downs a Bit of a Vacation by Sporting…

Give Your Button-Downs a Bit of a Vacation by Sporting These Polo Shirts Instead

Make these polo shirts staples in your wardrobe. (Credit: Courtesy of & Other Stories)

There's no denying that button-downs our staples in our wardrobes. They're great for rocking solo or layered under a suit for those times we're in the office. More boxy silhouettes have risen in popularity lately, including shirts with the formerly panned, now almost universally loved shoulder pads. As much as we depend on them, we think they deserve a bit of a respite. Don't worry, we're not advocating for you to bare your bra or bra top as alternatives. No, we're proponents of swapping in polo shirts.

Polos have a similar yet different vibe from button-downs. Yes, the collars are close cousins, but the polo fit usually comes across as more relaxed, laid-back even. Which is part of the reason why they'll look totally fab layered under a blazer. Think of them as part of your work casual, quiet luxury game plan.

It's important to realize, however, that polos all have different personalities. You have the more polished, professional ones. Then there are the slightly oversized striped versions often also referred to as rugby shirts or jerseys. (The sportier versions can still be worn as part of a chic suit.) Some boast buttons near the neckline. Others don't. Speaking of necklines, a few really take the plunge, but we're OK with that. Most identify as shirts, while a handful are deemed sweaters. Either will get the job done as long as they aren't too bulky. It's layering season, after all.

Make one of your New Year's resolutions to introduce several polo shirts into your repertoire. We promise that it's pretty easy to stick to compared to, say, spending less time on social media. Your button-downs deserve some time off to kick off 2024 anyway. No need to shop around. Just pick your favorites from the list below.