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Expert guide on what to wear to a polo match

Frocking up for the polo requires a master in chic daytime dressing. Much less formal than racewear fashion, the polo style code is more relaxed elegance – think floaty maxi dresses, tailored linen suits, casual headwear, and practical (read: sensible) footwear. We caught up with Sydney stylist Donny Galella and model Erin Holland at the Land Rover Polo In The City and quizzed the duo for their advice on what to wear to a polo match – including tips for when it’s raining.

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Stylish and practical. Model Erin Holland's Ann Shoebridge hat was a winner. Image: supplied.
Stylish and practical. Model Erin Holland's Ann Shoebridge hat was a winner. Image: supplied.

Classic headwear

First tip: forget fussy fascinators. And leave the Ralph Lauren Polo caps to the players. Headwear isn’t mandatory at the polo, but since it’s a daytime event, a classic straw or wide-brimmed hat will keep you stylishly cool and protected from the sun – should it be showing. Braving the drizzly wet weather at the Land Rover Polo In The City on Saturday, the former Miss World Australia Erin Holland topped off her all-white look with this hat by Sydney-based milliner Ann Shoebridge. “I love the boater – it’s also a great umbrella,” she joked with Yahoo7 Fashion.

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Fashion designer Rebecca Valance paired her chic black jumpsuit with Burberry Prorsum wedges. Image: supplied.
Fashion designer Rebecca Valance paired her chic black jumpsuit with Burberry Prorsum wedges. Image: supplied.

Sensible footwear

Second tip: leave the YSL Tributes at home. Rain, hail or shine, you don’t want to be the girl aerating the lawn in her sky-high heels. “Go for a wedge or a heel that won’t sink into the grass,” suggests stylist Donny Galella. Sophisticated flats are also a smart style option, and if the heavens open up, think practical: go for gumboots. “I saw someone with gumboots on today and thought that was a fantastic idea,” Holland said. Try Hunter, Coach or Burberry.

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Model Elyse Knowles hit all the style notes in this outfit by Scanlan and Theodore
Model Elyse Knowles hit all the style notes in this outfit by Scanlan and Theodore

Casual elegance

The key to polo fashion is to keep the look casual, yet sophisticated. Traditionally the polo season signals the start of summer, so lighter fabrics such as soft linens, lace and crisp cotton compliment the warmer weather. Avoid an outfit that’s too sparkly. Breezy maxi dresses, cute playsuits and lightly tailored pant suits are common sartorial choices. As are outfits in whites, crèmes and neutrals, which work well paired back with a bright summer print. A final style note from Galella: “Have fun! Embrace colour and have fun with accessories,” the stylist notes.

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