Kate Moss keeps it covered in a polo neck

Kate Moss keeps it covered in a polo neck

Polo necks have flown back up the style barometer, as celebrity fashion icons pave the way for the long-awaited return of this dormant 70’s fashion trend.

And sales prove it too, JD Williams reported sales of a whopping 3,000 black polo necks in the last few weeks alone – making it a best-seller for the first time in more than thirty years.

Kim keeps covered in a cream polo neck

The item of clothing, which dates back to the 19thcentury and was de-rigueur for philosophers, artists and radical academics, is having a renaissance, having become a mainstream must-have.  This upturn in sales follows the lead of celebrity fashion influencers like Kate Moss, Kate Middleton and Victoria Beckham, spotted embracing a look more frequently spotted on Oxbridge dons, Bond Villains and Vladamir Putin. 

The trend originally emerged in the 70’s when the likes of Diane Keaton - who almost single-handedly gave the polo asartorial reputation – Olivia Newton-John and Cilla Black, were spotted regularly donning their rainbow collections. By the time the millennium hit, the trend went into remission and the V-neck and round-neck took centre stage during the winter months. However, the black polo is back and is taking its place as a staple in every style-savvy woman’s capsule wardrobe.

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Practical and ideal for every winter outfit, you can choose between fitted styles to slouchy wide-neck turtle necks – dressed up or down – to enhance your natural curve rather than working against it. 

Until now, the polo neck has often had a stigma attached which previously caused its relegation to the bottom of the capsule wardrobe – the belief is that it will give you a ‘stumpy neck’ look and emphasise too much of your face. Work with your body shape, not against it. For slimmer, more boyish body types, the fitted polo neck will elongate your body, but for those worried about a tight high neck, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Victoria keeps it sleek in black

Linda Quinn,  Buying & Merchandising Director at JD Williams says: “Contrary to the belief that the polo is dowdy, it is actually very style forward. Black is perfect for slimming and refining, white is ideal for giving you a fresh faced look, whilst nude or grey look fabulous in the evening. Look for inspiration from celebs like Elle McPherson and Diane Keaton who consistently show that their polo is a wardrobe essential. 

“The fitted knit does sexy body-con without losing the laid-back silhouette and women wanting to dress hers up can add a statement necklace over the polo. The higher neckline also offers a blank canvas for shoulder-grazing earrings. It’s extremely versatile and can be used as a layering piece or just teamed with a great pencil skirt for a sophisticated look.”


by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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