The little ABC of polo etiquette and good style for our valued guests. The little ABC of polo etiquette – explained by Simone Styger.
Always dressed (well) correctly?
What should I wear when I am invited to a polo tournament? Many people ask themselves this question, especially those guests who have never been to see us in Ascona before. But first, a few general style rules from the sport of polo:
Should you button the top button of a polo shirt?
Regardless of how many buttons your polo shirt has, always leave the top one or two buttons open, and never button all of them. (Exception: Ladies)
Make sure that the buttons do not go lower than the top edge of your armpits.
Pop the collar?
A classic among style questions. In general, the rule is: whatever you like is allowed. Nevertheless, you do not pop the collar unless you want to appear as a show-off or simply "outdated".
The preppy look is back in fashion
The preppy style (from Preparatory Schools) is a classic-elegant style inspired by American college and Ivy League sports and is currently trendy again. It is characterized by fine, exclusive, and timeless basics such as button-down shirts, chinos, cable knits, and loafers. The look skillfully balances sporty casualness with formal elegance and is generally well-suited for afternoon events. New additions are more oversized cuts as well as unusual materials (e.g., terry cloth, cool-dry blends, etc.).
Wear a cap with a polo shirt?
A cap can elegantly spice up a simple outfit. The cap is often worn with sporty outfits and also goes well with polo shirts. However, the guidelines for a successful style apply here too: no wild pattern mixes, no advertisements, and always choose something that suits the occasion. For leisure use, the cap complements the sporty look of the polo shirt, but official occasions or professional obligations are not suitable for the combination of a cap and a polo shirt. Otherwise, the rule is: only wear a cap with a polo shirt if it suits your personal style.
Shoes, Shoes, Shoes
Men like to wear loafers, moccasins, or elegant sneakers. Women choose platform shoes, wedge heels, or flat shoes – high heels are generally frowned upon for polo, even if playing on sand in Ascona, and the classic "divot stomping" is therefore omitted.
Flashy or understated?
Should I dress conspicuously or rather blend in with the surroundings? At traditional tournaments, the rule is: rather Quiet Luxury, not too flashy. And for women, hats are welcome (traditional hat contest, though this is omitted in Ascona this year).
Polo events are rather stylish occasions, mostly without a direct dress code. In Ascona, it is naturally a bit more relaxed, and you are welcome to stand out if you wish.
Ascona with dress code
At our 3-day event, there is a dress code for Friday evening (party) and Saturday evening (gala) each time. For the beach party on Friday, the dress code is «simply white». This does not pose a major challenge for most women and men – as 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 offers a great many possibilities in execution, and we are repeatedly surprised and delighted by how creative our guests are with the dress code.
Therefore, we have decided for the first time to appoint a jury that will award prizes to the three most wonderful outfits of the evening. So, whether you choose a leopard costume or show up as Tarzan and Jane – there are no limits to your imagination. The most important thing about a dress code, however, is: It is not a carnival party, and you do not have to "dress up," but rather interpret the theme to suit your personal style. Your well-being on this special night is what matters most.
Etiquette
Not only your appearance affects your performance, but also your behavior. Therefore, here are some suggestions for good conduct so that all guests, players, and staff feel comfortable:
Arrive in good time – before the matches begin. This shows respect for the players and the organizers, and you won't miss any of the excitement. Polo is a social game. The event is therefore well-suited for meeting new people and enjoying the company of others. Just remember how you would like to be treated yourself. Small talk (talking to strangers) is always positive. So say something kind or remain silent.
Always remain respectful and refrain from negative comments. Do not be too loud during the match (except when cheering for the teams). Keep your mobile phone as invisible as possible, except when taking photos. Stay until the end of the event – the players appreciate a full tent. Even if your favorite team does not win, it shows good style to be present until the conclusion of the event.
Enjoy these three days to the fullest, and thank you for also supporting the Styger Kinderstiftung (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 the article in this booklet).
THE STYLE CONNECTION – Seestrasse 457a – 8038 Zurich – Phone 044 340 02 72 – simone.styger@styleconnection.ch