The rugby shirt is a trendy piece of clothing, not just for fans of the sport but for anyone interested in versatile and stylish fashion. As you walk down the street, there is a good chance you will come across someone wearing a casual rugby shirt and looking absolutely fabulous. But how did these clothes transcend their sporting origins to become a fashion staple, and how can you style them for different occasions?
The Evolution of Rugby Shirts
The modern and stylish rugby shirts is a true testament to the advancements in the clothing industry. However, that was not always the case in the early years of the sport. Back then, teams would be lucky enough if they could raise enough money to buy a few jerseys of the same colour. Now, don’t get me wrong, these shirts had everything needed to withstand the harsh conditions on the pitch. Their rugged design placed a lot of emphasis on durability and less on style.
Today, things have changed a little. The focus is not only on designing practical rugby shirts suitable for athletes but also for the rising rugby-inspired fashion trends. The designs have maintained the core features, including heavy-duty cotton construction and reinforced stitching, to withstand the game’s physical demands. However, there are a few notable improvements, such as moisture-wicking technology and breathability, which have made the shirt wearable and comfortable for non-athletes.
How to Style Rugby Shirts for Different Occasions
Styling Ideas for Men
Classic Casual Look
The classic casual look is perfect for those weekend outings with your other half, family or friends. You can go for something as simple as pairing the shirt with well-fitted jeans and sneakers. Of course, the colour combinations will significantly influence how the outfit turns out. That said, rugby shirts look great with dark denim or light-wash jeans with a black or brown belt and white sneakers. You can also throw on a dark-coloured bomber or denim jacket if it’s on a cold day.
Sporty Summer Look
Summer is perhaps the best time to bring out your versatile rugby fashion. The warm weather gives us the opportunity to showcase our true style without worrying about the cold and, most importantly, the need to put on a sweater on top. A go-to sporty summer combo for the guys includes pairing a rugby shirt with athletic shorts and running shoes or sporty sneakers. You can also add a baseball cap or a snapback hat to shield your face from the sun while adding a touch of sportiness to the overall look.
Styling Ideas for Women
Casual Everyday Look
The casual everyday look is anything that screams relaxation and comfort. With that in mind, nothing beats the stylish look of pairing a rugby shirt with a pair of mom or boyfriend or skinny jeans. My go-to colours are blue jeans with white sneakers or slip-on shoes and a few accessories (silver hoop earrings, a bangle, a necklace and a tote bag).
Preppy Summer Look
With a rugby shirt, there are plenty of summer looks you can pull off effortlessly. For example, a slim body will look amazing with the shirt tucked into an A-line skirt with minimalist loafers or ballet flats. Alternatively, wear the shirt with a pair of joggers or leggings and sporty sneakers to complete an athletic look. Don’t forget a snapback cap and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun and polish the look even further.
Takeaways
Styling a rugby shirt is simple, provided you understand your body type and what works for you. The versatility of rugby fashion ensures there is something for you, regardless of personal taste and preference. Don’t be afraid to explore and try different combinations – you never know what looks good on you until you give it a try.
