Polo Match Style Primer

Author:

Desmond Kinlaw

May 10, 2013

This Sunday is the annual Spring Invitational Polo Match in Ravenel (find details at bottom of this post). While the sport of polo is known as the sport of kings, it's also known for its ability to attract a ritzy crowd. Polo has only recently been brought back to the area after almost a 25-year hiatus due to Hurricane Hugo, so it's understandable that folks may have some indecisiveness on what to wear. When I invite my friends to the matches in Aiken (one of the top polo communities in the world), the first thing they always ask is "What do I wear?" The second question is "How do they play it?" Check here for the answer to the second question. As for the answer to the first, I've got plenty of them in my polo match style primer.

On a budget

Just because you're on a tight budget doesn't mean you can't still be stylish. The polo grounds are a great place to meet a potential wife. It's a family event so she'll probably be there with her folks. So you want to make a good impression on Dad. It's really not hard. Crisp polo shirt, well-fitting chinos, and a pair of boat shoes that nearly everyone in the south owns, and you're set. Now all you have to do is remember, firm handshake, and look him in the eye.

1-UNIQULO, 2-Forever21, 3-Sperry Top-Sider, 4-Old Navy

Horse lovers
So I totally understand there are people who could care less about the fashioney/social side of polo and they're just there to see some extremely athletic horses. Well, I've got you guys covered, too, in a total unfashioney (read understated) way. If you actually work on a farm, then most of this stuff you probably already have. Essentially, it's just a good pair of 501's, boots, plaid shirt, and a sweet hat courtesy of Orvis to block out the sun.

1-Orvis, 2-Tanner Goods, 3-Polo Ralph Lauren, 4-Levis, 5- Clarks

Full prep

This one is kinda self explanatory. A navy blazer on top of bright colors, Bass Weejuns, and of course a bow tie in a go-to-hell reversible pattern courtesy of social primer.

1-Polo Ralph Lauren, 2- Tommy Hilfiger, 3- Levis, 4-Bass, 5-Social Primer, 6-Polo Ralph Lauren

Hybrid

I'm not really sure who the "hybrid" guy is, but I will say that he relates the closest to me. Sort of like a combination of bits and pieces from different styles that you have made your own. If you haven't the slightest clue which direction to go, then this will probably be your safest bet. This glen plaid blazer will go with anything, so really you can mix and match any colors you want.

1-Levis, 2-JCrew, 3-JCrew, 4-Jcrew, 5-Bass, 6-Sid Mashburn

Wealthy Tycoon

There's a stigma on wealthy guys: they have horrible style. The excuse they all use is "I'm my own boss so I don't care how I look," which is a terrible mentality in my opinion. Also, if you're excited about growing your wealth, then one of the easiest ways is through networking and partnering with others. And let's face it, no one wants to work with a slob. You should look like what you're worth. People don't realize it, but the polo grounds rival the golf links as one the best places for networking and deal making. Don't miss out on an opportunity because of how you look. Because honestly, many times people take you seriously based on what you have on more than what's in your bank account. First of all, start with an expertly tailored suit in the right shade of grey. Ice blue dress shirt topped with a classic Hermes tie. Nothing less than Gucci loafers on your feet will do. And in my opinion, the best way to hold your pants up is with an alligator belt from Mr Lauren.

1-Thomas Pink, 2-Paul Smith, 3-Paul Smith, 4-Gucci, 5- Ralph Lauren Purple Lable, 6-Hermes

When reviewing all of these looks, the most important thing to remember is that this post is intended for inspiration, not replication. If you wear something that doesn't fit your personality, then it's just a costume. And that totally goes against everything I believe. What will I be wearing? Well, you'll just have to show up and find out.

So now that I've helped you get over the hurdle of figuring out what to wear, come on out and have a good time. You won't regret it.

Gates open @ 11:00

Junior Match @ 1:00

Main Event @ 3:00

Tickets still for sale here or at the door.

Hyde Park Farm & Polo Club

6763 Davis Road
Ravenel, SC 29470

Polo photo by Kendrick Mayes via Charleston magazine