The ABCs of polo etiquette and good style for our esteemed guests. The ABCs of Polo etiquette - explained by Simone Styger.
Always dressed correctly (well)?
What should I wear when I am invited to a polo tournament? This is a question many people ask themselves, especially those guests who have never been to Ascona before. But first, a few general style rules from the sport of polo:
Should you button the top button of a polo shirt?
No matter how many buttons your polo shirt has, always leave the top one to two buttons open and never open all buttons. (Exception: Ladies)
Make sure that the buttons do not go higher than the upper edge of your armpits.
Pop the collar?
A classic in matters of style. Basically, the rule is: anything goes that you like. Nevertheless, the collar is not popped unless you want to appear as a show-off or simply "outdated".
The preppy look is trending again
The preppy style (from preparatory schools) is a classic-elegant style inspired by American college and Ivy League sports, and is currently trending again. It is characterized by neat, high-quality, and timeless basics such as button-down shirts, chinos, cable-knit sweaters, and loafers. The look skillfully balances sporty casualness and formal elegance, and generally fits afternoon events well. New additions include rather oversized cuts and unusual materials (e.g., terry cloth, cool-dry blends, etc.).
Wear a cap with the polo shirt?
A cap can expertly and fashionably loosen up simple outfits. Happily worn with sporty outfits, the cap also goes well with polo shirts. But here too, the guidelines for successful style apply: no wild mix of patterns, no advertising, and always choose to suit the occasion. For leisure, the cap complements the sporty look of the polo shirt; official occasions or professional commitments are not suitable for the combination of cap and polo shirt. Otherwise, the rule is: a cap with a polo shirt only if it suits your type.
Shoes, Shoes, Shoes
Men like to wear loafers, moccasins or elegant sneakers. Women choose platforms, wedges or flat shoes – high heels are generally frowned upon during polo, even though in Ascona it is played on sand and thus the classic «divot stomping» is omitted.
Flashy or Quiet?
May I dress strikingly or rather blend in? At traditional tournaments the rule is: better quiet luxury, not too shrill. And women are encouraged to wear a hat (traditional hat contest, which will be omitted in Ascona this year).
Polo events are rather stylish events, mostly without a strict dress code. In Ascona it is naturally a bit more relaxed and you are allowed to stand out if you like.
Ascona with Dress Code
At our 3-day event, there is a dress code for Friday evening (party) and Saturday evening (gala). On Friday at the beach party, the dress code is "simply white". This does not pose a major challenge for most women and men - after all, everyone has some light-colored items in their wardrobe.
Welcome to the Jungle!
On Saturday evening, this year's dress code is: "Welcome to the jungle!". This leaves a lot of room for interpretation, and we are always surprised and delighted at how creatively our guests embrace the dress code.
That is why we decided to create a jury for the first time to award prizes to the three most wonderful outfits of the evening. So: whether you choose a leopard costume or appear as Tarzan and Jane - there are no limits to your imagination. But the most important thing about a dress code: it is not a carnival party and you do not need to «dress up», but rather implement the motto according to your personal style. Your well-being on this special night is the top priority.
Etiquette
Not only your appearance influences your performance, but also your behavior. Therefore, here are some etiquette suggestions so that all guests, players, and staff feel comfortable:
Arrive early – before the games begin. This shows respect for the players and organizers and you won't miss any action. Polo is a social game. So the event is a good opportunity to meet new people and enjoy the presence of others. Just remember how you would like to be treated. Small talk (talking to strangers) is always positive. So say something nice or remain silent.
Always remain respectful and refrain from making negative comments. Do not be too loud during the game (except when cheering for the teams). Keep your phone out of sight as much as possible, except when taking photos. Stay until the end of the event – the players appreciate a full tent. Even if your preferred team does not win, it shows good style to stay until the end of the event.
Enjoy these three days to the fullest and thank you if you also support the Styger Children's Foundation (tombola and auction) so that together we can give something back to children in Switzerland who are not on the sunny side of life. (see also article in this booklet).
THE STYLE CONNECTION – Seestrasse 457a – 8038 Zurich – Phone 044 340 02 72 – simone.styger@styleconnection.ch