Sports' influence on contemporary fashion continues to grow, with the classic rugby shirt emerging as a prominent trend for fall and winter. Moving beyond its traditional athletic roots, this garment is being reimagined by designers who are infusing it with renewed vitality. Expect to see an array of options, from sophisticated faux-fur-trimmed track jackets and luxurious satin track pants to elegant varsity cardigans. Following a summer dominated by tennis-inspired aesthetics, the fashion spotlight has now shifted to rugby, with a particular focus on the refreshed rugby shirt silhouette.
The updated rugby shirt strikes a balance between comfort and style, embodying a relaxed yet refined preppy aesthetic. While many contemporary designs honor its heritage with oversized fits, classic plackets, and collars, the creative interpretations extend far beyond these foundational elements. Traditional thick horizontal stripes, or “hooping,” remain a staple, but brands like Sandy Liang, Everlane, and Damson Madder are pushing boundaries with bold graphics, sleek monochrome palettes, and even playful cropped cuts. This season also sees the introduction of warmer, sweater-like versions, including sumptuous cashmere options from acclaimed brands such as Guest in Residence. The rugby shirt, in its multifaceted forms, stands out as an essential investment for the cooler months.
Styling possibilities for the modern rugby shirt are as diverse and intriguing as the garments themselves. For a casual yet chic look, draw inspiration from Hailey Bieber by pairing a rugby shirt with wide-leg jeans and a leather jacket. Alternatively, channel a Jenna Lyons-esque flair by combining it with a sequin midi skirt for an unexpected twist. For a bolder statement, consider sizing up and wearing it as a dress with this season's essential boots, a look popularized by the Copenhagen Fashion Week crowd. These versatile shirts can transition seamlessly from day to night, offering a fresh approach to cold-weather dressing.
The collection of rugby shirts available showcases a spectrum of styles and materials, catering to diverse preferences. From Faherty’s organic cotton version, known for its comfortable yet tailored fit, to Guest in Residence's luxurious cropped cashmere sweater, each piece offers unique characteristics. Rowing Blazers presents a cotton stripe rugby dress that can be styled for both preppy and edgy aesthetics, while Ralph Lauren maintains its iconic status with customizable men's rugby shirts featuring classic designs. Soft Goat offers a heavyweight cashmere knit, perfect for maximum warmth, and Aritzia's Mighty Cotton Lomu Polo provides a structured yet relaxed option. Everlane’s oversized pique polo delivers a minimalist silhouette made from regenerative cotton, promoting sustainability. Sandy Liang introduces a whimsical merino wool sweater with candy-colored stripes and mother-of-pearl buttons, and Lioness offers a V-neck rebels jersey for a subtly slouchy yet essential cotton tee. Damson Madder’s ribbed argyle sweater brings a touch of on-trend pattern play, and Citizens of Humanity features a cropped, buttery-soft cotton rugby in a sophisticated pashmina hue. Aligne's merino wool and cotton blend pullover provides a comfortable, temperature-regulating option for sensitive skin. Lastly, Sea New York's Arther Rugby Sweater stands out with its bold color blocking, custom logos, and a hint of cashmere for added softness. J.Crew offers a classic premium-weight rugby shirt known for its durability and wide size range, ensuring there's a perfect fit for everyone.
This season, the rugby shirt transcends its athletic origins to become a versatile fashion statement. With its blend of comfort, style, and adaptability, it offers numerous ways to elevate your cold-weather wardrobe, proving its enduring appeal in the fashion landscape.