WORDS BY STEPHEN YU
As we transition from autumn to winter, it's natural to start swapping your vests and short-sleeve T's for their long-sleeved counterparts. Long has the long-sleeve T reigned supreme as the king of the streetwear staples, a simple staple that goes with everything, that has served as a canvas for the cultural transmission of ideas and bad hip-hop merch. But there's a new king in town - the humble rugby shirt. Anything a tee can do, a rugby shirt can do better. Here's our rundown of the top 5:
1. Alexander Wang
The streetwear choice. An on-trend deconstructed look due to a panel that references Rodeo Drive - the centre of luxury goods and plastic surgery in LA. The drop-shoulder sleeves give the perfect oversized fit and the rubber patch detailing on the arm lets everyone know you're wearing Wang. Don't worry if people start inspecting your face for fine lines and wrinkles.
▼ Shop the look: Alexander Wang Platinum Rugby Polo Shirt
2. Polo Ralph Lauren
The archetypal rugby shirt. Vibrant stripe detailing gives a colourful, youthful feel. When was the last time you saw a long sleeve T this bright? Ralph branded flag appliqué detail for some added WASPiness.
▼ Shop the look: Polo Ralph Lauren Rugby Polo Shirt
3. JW Anderson
The fashionable one. See, even big-name designers are lending their hand to rugby shirts. JW kept it simple, choosing a rich bottle green colourway with contrasting white sleeves and a grey collar and hidden placket. However, he couldn't resist spelling his name using patchwork letters on the chest.
▼ Shop the look: JW Anderson Rugby Polo Shirt
4. Thom Browne
The modern American rugby shirt. A normal rugby shirt, that on closer inspection reveals some trademark Thom Browne quirky detailing. A thin placket. Traditional shirt point collar. Signature striped detailing on arm. Grosgrain ribbon strip behind the collar. Button up cuffs.
▼ Shop the look: Thom Browne Rugby Stripe Relaxed Fit Long Sleeve Polo
5. Adidas
The one you could actually play sport in. A technical spin on the classic rugby shirt. Thick cotton construction is replaced with something more lightweight half-zip opening instead of buttons for easier entry. The iconic 3-stripe detailing embossed on the collar and on the sleeves. Raglan arms with piping detail.
▼ Shop the look: Adidas Authentic Rugby Top
6.Sunnei
The luxurious one. Knitted in a loose and light cotton weave, this rugby shirt is soft and cosy. Horizontal stripes in red/white and yellow/navy for an eye-catching colourway. The finishing details are a thick placket and spread collar shirt.
▼ Shop the look: Sunnei Striped Polo Shirt