Phéno mode: the preppy polo trend we’re all adopting

What if the polo shirt left the sports locker room to settle into the wardrobes of stylish city women? Long associated with preppy uniforms or golfers in rather boring versions, it is now becoming a true fashion staple thanks to its presence on the most desirable runways, from Miu Miu to Prada and Calvin Klein.Oversized or fitted, worn open or buttoned all the way to the collar, plain, colorful or striped, the polo top structures the silhouette with effortless elegance. It’s the perfect alternative to a classic shirt, instantly elevating any outfit.

While the weather is still a little chilly, the polo sweater is the perfect option. We already know our love for the brand created by Alexandra Golovanoff, whose knitwear we wear all year long. Since bold colors are a must this season, we choose the Leon Light model in a luminous turquoise blue. Slightly oversized with ultra-soft 100% cashmere, it’s the perfect piece to instantly brighten your look.

It’s been a while since we talked about United Colors of Benetton. Yet the brand seems to be making a strong fashion comeback this season. After animal prints, stripes are taking over—and we approve. This oversized polo with a large collar, made from sweatshirt fabric, brings just the right amount of character with its graphic black stripes. Pair it with barrel pants to modernize the silhouette and, if you want to push the look further: a cap is a must.

Beyond lingerie, Etam also designs well-thought-out ready-to-wear pieces that attract almost as much attention as its underwear. This short-sleeve oversized polo keeps a chic look without losing its relaxed feel. The detail that makes all the difference? Its butter yellow color, one of the biggest color trends of the season. We can easily imagine it throughout spring, slipped under a brown suit, another strong color right now. The perfect match.

For once, we turn to From Future for its minimal elegance rather than its pop colors. This 100% merino wool polo sweater plays the card of discreet sophistication, enhanced by a delicate row of gold buttons. We love its old money aesthetic that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy would certainly have approved. While she might have styled it with cigarette pants and ballet flats, we picture it with oversized jeans and a pair of sleek sneakers.

For its new collection, Gerard Darel makes us want to rethink our working-girl wardrobe. This short-sleeve polo has a truly vintage look. It almost feels like something borrowed from our dad—and that’s exactly what makes it so charming. Its alternating brown stripes give it that irresistible retro vibe that makes us want to bring out the mini skirt, knee socks, loafers, and vintage sunglasses.

Impossible to talk about the polo shirt without mentioning Lacoste. Far from the clichés of the tennis court, the crocodile brand also offers models designed for everyday wear. This slim-fit striped polo in orange, blue and beige 100% cotton piqué, redesigned without buttons, feels more modern than ever. Wear it with bermuda shorts, knee-high boots and a blazer to give this sporty classic a bold twist.

Spotted at Maje, this polo becomes almost jewel-like while maintaining a business-ready elegance. The short-sleeve model in ribbed wool knit stands out thanks to its collar adorned with pearl details. Instantly, we imagine it layered over a white shirt for a very fashion-forward effect. A real crush that successfully reinvents this classic wardrobe piece.

Molli has also embraced the polo trend, interpreting it in its own refined way with a vibrant orange shade that definitely stands out. What makes it special? A honeycomb collar, textured waffle knit and a slightly deeper neckline. The result is a piece that feels both elegant and bold.

We love when our favorite brands revisit their iconic pieces with just the right amount of modernity. That’s exactly what Ralph Lauren does with this cable-knit polo, a piece that has crossed generations. Here, it keeps all its DNA but appears in a luminous yellow shade that instantly brightens the complexion. Perfect for a terrace lunch, a day at the office, or those mornings when inspiration is lacking.

The little gem from Mango is the one we already imagine packing in our suitcase for a weekend in Deauville. This cozy polo sweater protects from the sea breeze with red stripes that subtly evoke the nautical style—without ever falling into cliché. An easy piece, perfect for coastal weekends, and all at a very accessible price.

Also discover 3 new boutiques to upgrade your fall wardrobe, 10 Trendy pieces to adopt this fall