With their bright colours, high-quality fabric and stylish look, rugby shirts have long been a go-to option for style icons just as much as sports fans. Famous brands such as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger have co-opted and popularised the idea of the rugby shirt as a fashion statement - not to mention megastars like Mick Jagger, who was often pictured sporting a striped rugby shirt in the ‘60s and ‘70
As such, wearing a rugby shirt is now about much more than showing your sporting loyalties, as these striking pieces of athletic wear can act as the centrepiece of a truly striking outfit. Whether you're looking to create a comfortable look for day-to-day wear or a stylish ensemble for a special occasion, you may be surprised by just how versatile a well-made rugby shirt can be!
Take a look at our tips and advice on how to style your rugby shirt, or start designing your outfit today. Shop rugby shirts from TOFFS' high-quality range of replica retro rugby kits, made with 100% cotton and manufactured by hand here in the UK.
What to wear with your rugby shirt
Rugby shirts have come a long way since their earliest days, back when the sport was first created at the Rugby School in the early 1900s. Back then, thick woollen jumpers were worn while playing the sport, but this quickly evolved into a more durable and comfortable cotton design, bringing the modern rugby shirt to life.
Today, rugby shirts are versatile, warm and attention-grabbing additions to any wardrobe. Styled like a heavy cotton polo shirt, usually with a signature white collar and bold stripes and colours, rugby jerseys have become a cool, sporty fixture of modern fashion, whether as a menswear staple or as an option for women who enjoy incorporating oversized fits into a casual look.
Here are a few pointers on how to wear a rugby shirt for maximum fashion impact:
- Pair your rugby shirt with a chic sports jacket, bomber jacket, denim jacket or blazer, left unfastened so that the bold stripes and colours of the shirt can still be seen underneath. If your shirt is especially colourful, allow it to make a statement by sticking to neutral colours for the rest of your ensemble. You can also pop the collar of your rugby shirt to give it some casual flair!
- Build out the look by wearing some faded jeans, corduroy trousers, pale chinos or cargo pants to complement the impact of the rugby shirt itself. If your shirt features bright colours, you could choose white jeans for an impressive contrast. You might also decide to wear a contrasting t-shirt underneath in colder weather, but take care not to wear too many elements that will clash.
- Your choice of footwear will depend on what kind of overall look you're aiming for. If you're creating a casual streetwear outfit, you can choose some smart trainers or sturdy boots; if you're going for a more formal look, pick out your best suede shoes, loafers or derbies.
- Complete the outfit with some well-coordinated accessories, such as a prominent belt or a classic wristwatch that pairs well with the outfit.
Of course, there's no one correct way to wear a rugby shirt, so feel free to experiment with your look and find an ensemble that really brings out the preppy appeal of this classic item of sportswear!
Shop rugby shirts and stylish casualwear to spruce up your wardrobe
If this blog post has given you some fashion inspiration for a rugby shirt ensemble of your own, take a look at TOFFS' range of retro rugby shirts. We sell high-quality replicas inspired by the world's greatest international sides, including England, Scotland, Wales and the British & Irish Lions, all made with 100% cotton to create the best rugby shirts for your wardrobe. TOFFS' sportswear range isn't just about showing your love for the sport - it's about looking and feeling good while doing it!
You can also browse our Heritage Sporting Goods range to find a wider selection of classy casualwear, made to an immaculate standard at our factory in Gateshead.
