Terry Cloth Polo: Must-Have Leisurewear of Summer 2022
The terry cloth polo has made a return of epic proportions following its popularisation in the late 1960s and early 1970s, now ranking as one of the most “must have” men’s leisurewear pieces for the upcoming 2022 summer. Ideal for those warm summer days spent courtside or sipping an Aperol Spritz portside, the terry cloth polo has solidified its placement as the premiere accoutrement to a modern man’s wardrobe.
People’s expectations for returning to a more active lifestyle after the sedentary past two years have evolved to match the standards for our comfortable indoor loungewear. Terry cloth fabric is now the ultimate choice for today’s resortwear and elevated casual attire.
From 19th Century France to 20th Century Spy Thrillers
From its humble beginnings in 1850s France, terry cloth has achieved global appeal for its buttery-soft luxury towel texture, sporty athleisure stretch, absorbency, and tactile satiation that can be likened to a lover’s intimate embrace. As such, terry cloth is on track to become the most coveted wardrobe essential of this decade, easing the transition from work-from-home pajamas to activewear complementing the first excursion-fuelled summer since travel restrictions have eased.
Gaining initial notoriety as a lightweight and adaptable alternative to traditional tennis attire in the 1920s, Rene Lacoste shaped the history of men’s apparel with his introduction of the polo shirt. This sporty and refined style became synonymous with a country club aesthetic as the uniform of lifetime sports like golf and tennis.
Jumping forward a few decades to 1964, the iconic evolution of the polo took centre stage with Sean Connery’s role in Goldfinger. In arguably the best Bond film ever made, Sean Connery prominently sported a baby blue terry cloth romper poolside while becoming acquainted with esteemed Bond girl Jill Masterson. This pop culture phenomenon placed terry cloth menswear firmly on the map as much more than a posh athletic uniform but rather a sophisticated resort fashion requisite constructed for poolside and beachfront affairs (in every sense of the word).
Recreate the James Bond Romper. Shop our complete polo collection.
Self-Expression with Refined Comfort & Styling
Terry cloth is often associated with the comfort and intimacy of the classic luxurious hotel bathrobe. There is an enviable enhancement of swagger while adorned in a plush terry cloth robe, strutting through a hotel suite post bubble bath, as if confidence and relaxation are woven into the fibres themselves. The terry cloth polo emulates this sensation with a versatility suited to expanded contexts beyond the confines of the bedroom, bathroom, and spa.
Fashion extends far beyond utility and offers a means of expression for each of us. Our wardrobe selections enable us to represent ourselves authentically and often serve as the impetus for memorable occasions with the people we love. Stylistically, terry cloth encapsulates a vintage golden-era of fashion and expression that is indelibly featured in the lifestyle photography of Slim Aarons.
These scenes depicting icons and socialites embracing a life of leisure across charming locales like the French Riviera, Palm Springs, Caribbean islands, and the Amalfi Coast awaken a nostalgia for breezy escapism combined with complete presence. Afterlight Leisure evokes the effortlessly cool 1970s fashion trends and are transportive to A Wonderful Time.
While toeing the line between novelty and everyday wear, our Zipper Terry Cloth Polo is available in a nautical and vibrant colour palette with a plush and breathable composition certain to turn heads (and be caressed). This timeless design of durable luxury fabric is well-suited for leisurely outings from a round of 18 to the clubhouse (for another round of 9) and from your hotel to the marina, along with the pleasurable moments in between.
Leisurewear for Everywhere. Peruse our polos in 5 diverse colours.
A wardrobe staple for warm weather ahead
This garment is ripe for an introduction to your wardrobe with summer just a week away. This crafted balance of comfort and class is sure to catalyse the leisure-filled warm weather days in front of you, from poolside cabana lounging to golden hour garden parties.
With regard to styling, this garment pairs intentionally with the Afterlight Leisure Drawstring Shorts but can be effortlessly combined with swim trunks for the complete off-duty holiday ensemble.
Top-Drawer Essential. Complement your polo with the perfect pair of terry cloth shorts.
Afterlight Leisure garments are impeccably suited to life’s most blissful moments - browse our full men's terry cloth collection. Additionally, we encourage you to join our virtual lounge pass for 10% off your first order, exclusive Afterlight Leisure promotions, and leisurely entertainment by subscribing to our monthly newsletter below!