With the feeling of nostalgia looming large as we usher in winter, we tend to look back at the styles that shaped us. Rugby shirts capture the essence of laid-back prep, conjuring memories of muddy pitches and grey-skied weekends spent on the sidelines at primary school. Once reserved for genuine athletes (or the unwillingly sporty), they’ve been stylishly reappropriated by the fashion set - draping effortlessly over wide-leg denim and worn-in Sambas.
The signature polo has been teetering on the peripheries of the preppy trend that has steamrolled through the summer (Chloë Sevigny is already a fan), but it looks like it’s finally taking its place centre stage (or should we say, centre scrum?) for autumn/winter 2025 too.
The rugby shirt offers both uniformity and a splash of playfulness all at once. The tried and tested formula of relaxed shape and white collar (worn open) looks at home on and off pitch, in an way other types of sportswear struggle to pull off. Try popping your collar for a little vintage Prince William during his St Andrews days energy.
Few understand the appeal of the rugby shirt quite like Gigi Hadid. Alongside style peers Hailey Bieber, Taylor Swift and Kendall Jenner, the model has long championed the collared classic - but she’s taken her devotion one step further. For her cashmere label, Guest in Residence, Hadid reimagined the sporty staple in luxurious stripes that swiftly became the brand’s signature piece, spotted on editors and fashion insiders everywhere.
© GC ImagesAs Copenhagen proves season after season - the silhouette pairs well with everything from tailoring to embellished fancier fare. Scandi brands like OpéraSPORT, Baum und Pferdgarten and Marimekko helped to usher in the trend, leaving heavyweight houses from Miu Miu to JW Anderson to pick up the baton. Clearly, the Gossip Girl-inpsired design is here to stay - and we couldn't be happier about it.
Best rugby shirts to buy now:
Striped Cashmere Polo Jumper
Guest In Residence
The brainchild of model Gigi Hadid, Guest In Residence is our first port of call when it comes to preppy knitwear. Featuring stripes, polo collars and oversized silhouettes, the brand's collection is brimming with soft-touch gems.
Striped Polo Jumper
Sandro
Indulge in cosy comfort this season with Sandro's long sleeve option, complete with a preppy polo collar and a crimson colourway.
Striped Polo Jumper
Claudie Pierlot
Perfect for coffee dates and snug mornings at home, Claudie Pierlot's luxurious yet low-key rugby shirt is heading straight to the top of our wish lists.
Striped Long Sleeve Polo Shirt
Cos
Not one for colour? Cos' mole-hued rugby shirt is set to become your new staple for the season. We'd team ours with dark-wash jeans and chunky silver jewellery.
Noah Cinch Layered Rugby
Damson Madder
Made from plush 100 per cent organic cotton, Damson Madder's affordable striped piece is chic comfort personified. Complete with a button-up placket and contrast blue double-layer detailing at the hem and sleeves, it's a no-brainer for us.
LB Ester Knitted Polo Sweater
Aligne
Hailing from Aligne's collaboration with Lioness Lucy Bronze, this collared pick comes fully pitch-approved. A ribbed collar and a wool-blend construction make for a seriously snug staple.
Striped Cosy Rugby Top
M&S
Revel in a monochrome moment with M&S' black-and-white striped rugby shirt - which can be yours for just £30.
University Knitted Polo
Nude Project
Autumn calls for back to school dress codes - hence why Nude Project's knitted dream of a rugby shirt is heading straight into our online shopping cart.
Pink Red and Ivory Striped Rugby Top
Glassworks
Think pink with Glassworks' adorable throw-on. Featuring classic stripes with a feminine colourway, this playful number is the shot of dopamine we all need before winter fully sets in.
Clove Rugby
Beaufort & Blake
Sumptuously soft and British preppy-ness at its absolute best. Pop the collar and team with a pleated skirt.
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