Although the sport of polo has been around since at least 600 B.C.E., it didn't make its debut in the US until the late 1800s. Since then, the sport has been a social event as well as a tournament, with spectators turning out in chic outdoor wear featuring floppy brimmed hats and over-sized shades. Most U.S. polo clubs don't have a dress code unless you're dining in the clubhouse or sitting in an exclusive members-only area, but a few rules of thumb apply when selecting an outfit for the tournament.
American polo events are more casual than British events, but each region and polo club has its own mode of dress. If the match is during the morning or early afternoon, classy casual is common. For evening matches or charity events, you'll want to dress up. You'll also want to don your best duds if you're sitting in exclusive areas such as the member's club or hospitality section.
Whether you're going casual or dressy, women's polo fashions include comfortable dresses or separates. Accessorizing is the key to make an outfit pop -- you'll see big hats, bright scarves and unusual clutch purses. If there is a party or banquet afterward as part of the tournament, don't wear your party clothes to the match, but bring an outfit to change into. Ditch the stilettos at the tournament itself, as narrow heels sink into the turf, no matter how dry it is. Instead, finish off your outfit with comfortable wedges or flats.
You'll commonly see men at polo matches dressed in dress slacks or chinos topped with a dress shirt. Again, accessorizing is key, and a polo match is a perfect opportunity to show off a special watch, cuff links or other accoutrements. Ties are optional, but during cool days, you'll see sport coats, blazers and wool cardigans. Common footwear at the matches include Brogues, driving shoes, loafers or Wellington boots. Don't forget to top off your outfit with a Panama hat, some sweet shades and binoculars.
American casual style is synonymous with blue jeans, and a polo match is no exception. Avoid torn, shredded or cut-off blue jeans in favor of brightly colored stone-washed or dark colors. Women can top jeans with a dressy blouse or cute jacket and accessorize with a complementary scarf or hat. Men can successfully pull off a jeans look with a dress shirt open at the neck, topped off with a sporty blazer. Things you won't want to wear to a polo tournament include torn clothing, short shorts, midriffs, mini-skirts and flip-flops.
