Over the years, I’ve steadily accumulated my fair share of sharp, sometimes tailored, definitely preppy-coded womenswear: striped button-downs, wax-coated barn jackets, boat shoes, and pleated slacks. But there’s one piece that has been largely absent from my wardrobe: the polo sweater. I went to a private high school in Northern California, which would have been a prime time to start my collection. Yet even then, I found the style to be a little too stuffy for my tastes.
How quickly we can change our preconceived assumptions when we find something more relatable. When I first saw Vince’s butter-yellow polo online, I was intrigued. It had the making of a polo, with its two-tone collared V-neck and ribbing along the cuff and hem, but the relaxed shape and dreamy color palette felt the opposite of stale. It felt fresh and chill—something I would actually want to wear.
Which turned out to be true. Since I added the polo to my closet earlier this month, I haven’t stopped taking it off the hanger or mentally mapping out the next outfit I can slot it into. First off, the pastel color is stunning and perfect for spring. These days, as I do my best to stay grounded while the world seemingly upends itself, I take solace in the beautiful moments, whether that’s looking out at the Hudson River from a cherry-blossom-covered outlook or dressing myself in a pretty, well-crafted garment.
It feels good too. Wool and even some cashmere can irritate my skin, but this polo’s cashmere blend feels soft to touch all day long, which is an immediate plus in my book. As for fit, I like how the slightly oversize cut gives it a slouchy, just-thrown-on effect. The collar loosely lays across the shoulders, as opposed to sitting squarely across the collarbone, which I think contributes to the easy and relaxed vibes the sweater has going for it.
Something I’ve also learned, as a new polo owner, is that they make great layering pieces. Along with my growing appreciation (and obsession) for fine knits are patterned button-downs; while the polo looks great on its own, layering it on top of a striped dress shirt (in the picture below, I’m wearing Citizens of Humanity’s Camila in Imperial Stripe) makes the two-tone contrast pop even more while also creating a funky four-point situation.
Spring has begun (despite intermittent overcast weather that may not reflect it), and my wardrobe has already gone into full bloom. From pastel pinks to baby blues and butter yellows, my clothing is making way for a fresh start, and my new favorite polo is definitely coming along for the ride.
Vince Wool & Cashmere-Blend Contrast-Collar Polo Sweater
