When you think of a polo shirt, the classic image likely comes to mind: a short-sleeved sporty shirt with a soft collar and a three-button placket front, crafted from breathable cotton. This iconic garment is one of the most democratic pieces in menswear, worn by everyone from toddlers to grown adults. Its versatility, timelessness, and universal appeal have made the polo shirt a wardrobe staple for decades.
At Neem London, we’ve taken this timeless design and reimagined it with low carbon emissions at its core. Our polos are crafted from ZQ Merino wool, a natural, renewable, and fully traceable material that ensures both comfort and sustainability. Sourced from ZQ-certified farms, this wool meets the highest standards for animal welfare, environmental care, and fibre quality, aligning perfectly with our commitment to eco-conscious fashion.
Merino Wool: The Future of Sustainable Fashion
What makes ZQ Merino wool so exceptional is its breathability, softness, and performance. Unlike traditional cotton, Merino wool naturally regulates body temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter, making it the perfect fabric for year-round wear. It's also biodegradable and renewable, ensuring that every garment has minimal impact on the environment.
Our polo shirts combine the luxurious softness of Merino wool with durable construction, making them a long-lasting addition to your wardrobe. Available in a variety of colours and patterns, from Neem green to light pink and even subtle stripes, our polos provide the perfect balance between style and sustainability.
The Evolution of the Polo Shirt: From Function to Fashion
The history of the polo shirt stretches back to the late 19th century, when British officers in India adapted their loose-fitting cotton shirts for polo matches. To prevent the collars from flapping during play, they added buttons, and thus, the button-down collar was born.
Fast-forward to the 1920s, when tennis legend René Lacoste reimagined the polo shirt to improve his performance on the court. Lacoste’s breathable, short-sleeved design, paired with his now-iconic crocodile logo, laid the foundation for the modern polo shirt.
Ralph Lauren brought the polo into mainstream fashion in the 1960s with his Polo line, cementing its place as a symbol of casual elegance and preppy style. Today, the polo shirt remains one of the most versatile garments in menswear, blending the comfort of a t-shirt with the refinement of a collar.
How to Wear a Polo Shirt the Neem London Way
The beauty of the polo shirt lies in its versatility—it can be styled for virtually any occasion. Here’s how to incorporate Neem London’s ZQ Merino wool polos into your wardrobe:-
With Tailoring: Swap your classic shirt for a polo under a lightweight blazer or suit jacket for a refined yet relaxed look. Choose neutral or tonal colours for a polished silhouette—perfect for summer evenings or casual office settings.
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For a Casual Vibe: Pair your polo with our recycled cotton chino trousers for a laid-back yet stylish outfit. The temperature-regulating properties of Merino wool make our polos perfect for warm days, while still offering a sophisticated finish.
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With a Preppy Aesthetic: Embrace the Ivy League style by layering your polo under a varsity jacket or cardigan. Striped polos, like those in our collection, add a hint of classic collegiate charm that’s perfect for weekend outings.
Shop our ZQ Merino Polo Collection Here.