With the feeling of nostalgia looming large as we usher in autumn, 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 2026 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.
© GC ImagesFew 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.
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© ImaxtreeAs 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 Stella McCartney and JW Anderson to pick up the baton.
The striped style dominated autumn/winter 2026, and according to brands including Ami Paris and Kenzo, is set to continue its reign across both womenswear and menswear for spring/summer 2027.
Clearly, the Gossip Girl-inpsired design is here to stay - and we couldn't be happier about it. Shop our favourite picks below.
Best rugby shirts to buy now:
Grizzly Cropped Rugby
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 Oversized Cotton Jersey Polo Shirt
Versace
Versace’s oversized polo puts a distinctly luxe spin on collegiate dressing. Crafted from pure cotton jersey, its horizontal stripes, relaxed silhouette and embroidered logo make everyday styling feel effortlessly elevated.
Striped Polo Jumper
Sandro
Indulge in cosy comfort this season with Sandro's long sleeve option, complete with a preppy polo collar and a classic blue colourway.
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.
Ester Knitted Jumper
Aligne
Hailing from cool-girl label Aligne, this collared pick comes fashion editor-approved. A ribbed collar and a wool-blend construction make for a seriously snug staple.
Long-Sleeved Cotton Polo Top
Monki
Autumn calls for back-to-school dress codes - hence why Monki's pale yellow dream of a rugby shirt is heading straight into our affordable online shopping cart.
Embroidered Striped Polo Shirt
JW Anderson
A luxury take on retro stripemaxxing, JW Anderson's polo collar jersey is a gender-neutral layer that neatly leans into preppy East Coast vibes.
Striped Cotton Piqué Polo Shirt
Prada
Revel in a playful pink moment with Prada's' adorably striped rugby shirt. Nostalgic and feminine in equal measure - ideal for luxurious autumn frolicking.
Striped Cotton-Blend Pqué Polo Sweater
Rotate
Sumptuously soft and cut in a radiant shade of forest green, Rotate's polo long sleeve showcases preppy style at its absolute best. Pop the collar and team with a pleated skirt.
Striped Polo Neck Sweater
Mango
Not one for bold colour? Mango's low-key, blue-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.
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