Point Mode: The Polo

The Origin of Polo: From Sport to Fashion

The polo shirt, this garment that we wear today with such simplicity, originated in the context of equestrian sport. It was in the 19th century, in India, that the first polo players adopted a garment suited to the demands of their activity. The polo of the time was simple but functional: a short-sleeved shirt, often made of lightweight cotton, with a soft collar, a button placket, and a cut that allowed players to move freely while remaining very elegant as the sport requires. At the beginning of the 20th century, polo became a true global phenomenon thanks to a man who would leave his mark on fashion history: René Lacoste. In 1927, while already one of the best tennis players in the world, Lacoste invented the modern polo. By adapting this garment from the equestrian world to racket sports, he invented the modern polo, using a cotton piqué fabric, soft and light, combining comfort and elegance.


René Lacoste

The Polo: A Piece Adored by Pop Culture

A huge success in the sports world, the polo becomes a true emblem of pop culture and casual elegance, especially during the sixties and the following decades. In the 80s and 90s, icons like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and the Beatles adopt it, propelling the polo onto global stages as a symbol of urban and timeless style. The polo is both a sign of belonging to a certain elite and a casual garment, allowing the wearer to stand out while maintaining great freedom of movement. It is also found in cinema, with films like The Graduate (1967) where Dustin Hoffman wears a Lacoste polo, or The War of the Buttons, where young and dynamic characters proudly sport this garment. The polo thus becomes a must-have of contemporary fashion, integrating into all styles and generations.

  
From left to right: Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft and Michael Jackson.

Ines de la Fressange and the Polo: An Elegant Reinterpretation

At Ines de la Fressange Paris, we have always been passionate about fashion classics. For us, the polo is a piece that perfectly embodies the spirit of our house: simple and discreet elegance. We wanted to reinterpret this timeless piece by adding our touch of femininity and refinement. Our version of the polo is inspired by classic cuts while adding a dimension of comfort and modernity, making it a versatile garment, easy to wear daily. The cut of the Ines de la Fressange Paris polo is designed to fit all silhouettes. We use high-quality fabrics, mainly piqué cotton, guaranteeing softness and lightness, to ensure a feeling of comfort throughout the day. Made in Europe, our polos are available in sober and elegant colors, ranging from classic white to bolder shades, sometimes enhanced with subtle details, such as a contrasting collar or a small discreet embroidery. The little detail that makes all the difference and gives each piece a unique charm. One of our aims is to make this garment accessible to all, while taking care of its chic and casual side; we want every woman to be able to wear this polo, whether for a casual outing in the city, a weekend getaway, or even a professional meeting. The Ines de la Fressange polo adapts to all occasions. It can be worn just as well with jeans as with a skirt or even under a tweed jacket for an always elegant look.
 

The Polo: A Wardrobe Essential

The polo is, at Ines de la Fressange, a wardrobe essential. It is a versatile piece worn in all seasons, distinguished by its ability to adapt to every style. Our polo embodies both the lightness of summer and the elegant simplicity of autumn. It is worn under a wool jacket in winter or alone on warmer days. Our polo is not only a timeless garment but also crosses seasons and trends without ever going out of style. It even has an incredible ability to be worn at any age and in any circumstance, at school, university, work, or home... The polo is a piece that transcends eras and styles. It is a garment that, while remaining simple, tells a story. A story of sport, culture, but also elegance. At Ines de la Fressange, we have reinterpreted it so that it is more than just a garment: it is the embodiment of a French art of living, between simplicity and sophistication. Whether you wear it casually or in a more dressed-up context, the polo is one of those essential pieces that we keep and love to wear year after year.


Conclusion: The Polo, Elegance and Modernity

Thus, the polo is not just a garment, it is a true institution in the world of fashion. Originating from sports to its adoption by popular culture, it has reinvented itself over time to become an essential piece in every wardrobe. At Ines de la Fressange, we are proud to continue reinterpreting this classic and to offer you a modern, elegant, and timeless version of the polo. Our polo embodies the casual elegance we cherish and wish to share with you. Whether you seek comfort, simplicity, or elegance, the Ines de la Fressange polo will always be a perfect choice.