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Champagne & Chukkers: What to Wear to Your First Match

  • Writer: Suzanne Kopulos
    Suzanne Kopulos
  • Apr 21
  • 3 min read

Your Style Guide to Polo, Polished Ease, and Looking Like You’ve Been Here Before



Polo is one of those sports that looks wildly intimidating until you realize the crowd isn’t actually watching the game that closely. For most of us, it’s a social ritual disguised as a sport: long afternoons, sun-warmed grass, chilled champagne, and the collective pause while everyone politely golf claps like they absolutely know what just happened. Rooted in military training and later adopted by leisure-loving aristocrats, polo in America found its groove in places like Aiken, South Carolina, where tradition meets a distinctly approachable kind of polish, think heritage with manners. Casual, but never careless.


The unspoken rule of polo style? Look like you belong, even if you’re Googling “chukker” under the table. Remember, you’re an esteemed onlooker; thus comfort is mandatory, polish is expected, and effort is assumed. 


As we move into 2026, polo style is leaning even further into effortless elegance with function baked in. Fabrics are breathable, sun-protective, and wrinkle-resistant. Accessories are purposeful, and color palettes feel grounded. There’s a return to clothes that feel lived-in but intentional—heritage silhouettes updated for modern comfort. These are the kind of pieces you’ll wear again to a garden party, a coastal weekend, or a very confident lunch.


What Women Should Wear


Breezy dresses are the hero of polo season. Lightweight cottons, linens, and silk blends with movement—nothing stiff, nothing clingy. Midi lengths are the sweet spot. Think elegant, unfussy, and divot-stomp approved. Color-wise, lean into soft neutrals, subtle stripes, classic florals, or sun-faded pastels. This isn’t the place for neon or anything that looks like it arrived via overnight trend cycle. Polo style prefers things that feel collected over time.


In terms of shoes, they matter more than you think. Block heels, espadrilles, or structured sandals are the move. If you can gracefully walk across grass and stand confidently during halftime without wobbling, you’ve chosen wisely. Word to the wise: steer clear of the divots!


Accessories should feel intentional but easy. I recommend woven or structured leather bags, either crossbody or top-handle. Oversized sunglasses are a must, and the bigger, the better. 

Vintage-inspired jewelry or collection pieces are always a good move in the form of gold hoops, bangles, or a cuff. A carefully crafted timepiece is also a great conversation starter. 


What Men Should Wear


Men’s polo style is deceptively simple, and that’s where most people get it wrong.

Start with a crisp polo or lightweight button-down. The fit should be relaxed but tailored, never sloppy. Pair with tailored, breathable trousers depending on formality and temperature. Linen blends and performance fabrics are your quiet MVPs.


Shoes should strike the balance between practical and polished. Think loafers, leather sneakers, or breathable espadrilles. Athletic shoes are a hard no, becuase you’re spectating, not subbing in.


Finish your look with a leather belt, classic watch, and sunglasses that say “I’m prepared,” rather than “I’m trying really hard.” The goal? Composed, not curated. You should look like this outfit just happened to be perfect.


Final Field Notes


Polo style isn’t about perfection, it’s about ease. If you’re comfortable, polished, and prepared for a divot stomp with champagne in hand, you’re doing it right. Golf clap politely. Step confidently. Sip slowly. And remember: half the crowd doesn’t know the rules either—they just dressed better. See you on the field!


Take Note: Polo Style Rules 


  • Nothing too tight, nothing too noisy. Polo punishes overthinking.

  • Grass is your runway. If your shoes sink, squeak, or stab the turf—you’ve lost.

  • Quiet luxury wins. Logos whisper here. They do not shout.

  • Sun protection is chic. Sunglasses and hats are functional, not optional.

  • You should look like you could’ve owned a horse once. No proof required.


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About the author

Suzanne Kopulos has spent 20+ years as a celebrity stylist, fashion tastemaker, and lifestyle brand builder. For nearly a decade, she was represented by Ford Models—where her keen eye for emerging trends made her an indispensable part of Chicago’s fashion scene. With degrees in both business and law, Suzanne parlayed these skills into creative strategy; she has shaped campaigns for Neiman Marcus, BCBG, Ted Baker, Lafayette 148, goop, Ulta Beauty, Nike, QVC, Vital Proteins, Macy’s, Burberry, and Kate Somerville. As a fashion industry thought leader, she was regularly featured live on-air, contributing her “fresh takes” on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and WGN. 

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