The fundamentals of the polo dress code and good taste for our esteemed guests. The fundamentals of polo etiquette – explained by Simone Styger.
Always dressed (very) correctly?
What should I wear when I am invited to a polo tournament? This is a question many ask themselves, especially those guests who have never been with us in Ascona before. But first, some general style rules of the sport of polo:
Should the top button of a polo shirt be fastened?
Regardless of how many buttons your polo shirt has, always leave the first one or two buttons open and never unbutton them all. (Exception: ladies)
Ensure that the buttons do not go down further than the top edge of your armpits.
Pop the collar?
A classic in matters of style. As a general rule: whatever you like is allowed. Nevertheless, the collar is not popped if one does not want to appear conceited or simply old-fashioned.
The preppy look is back in fashion
The preppy style (from preparatory schools) is a classic and elegant style, inspired by university sports and the American Ivy League, which is currently back in fashion. It is characterized by neat, high-quality, and timeless basics such as button-down shirts, chinos, cable knits, and loafers. The look skillfully balances sporty casualness and formal elegance, and generally fits well for afternoon events. New features include rather oversized cuts and unusual materials (e.g., terry cloth, Cool-Dry blends, etc.).
Wear a cap with a polo shirt?
A cap can skillfully complement and add a modern touch to simple outfits. Often worn with sporty styles, the cap also pairs well with polo shirts. But here, too, the rules of successful styling apply: no loud pattern mixes, no advertising, and always choose the right garment for the occasion. For leisure time, the cap complements the sporty look of the polo shirt; official occasions or professional commitments are not suitable for the combination of a cap and polo shirt. Otherwise, the rule applies: a cap with a polo shirt only if it suits your type.
Shoes, Shoes, Shoes
Men like to wear loafers or elegant sneakers. Women opt for platforms, wedges, or flat shoes; high heels are generally frowned upon during polo, although in Ascona, the game is played on sand, and therefore the classic 'Divot stomping' does not take place.
Eye-catching or discreet?
Should I dress in an eye-catching way or is it better to go unnoticed? In traditional tournaments, the rule is: quiet luxury is better, without being flashy. And for women, preferably with a hat (traditional hat contest, although this year in Ascona it is being dispensed with).
Polo events are usually stylish occasions, generally without a strict dress code. In Ascona, it is of course a bit more relaxed and it is also allowed to stand out if one wants to.
Ascona with dress code
At our 3-day event, there is a dress code for Friday night (party) and Saturday night (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, as everyone has some light-colored clothing in their wardrobe.
Welcome to the Jungle!
On Saturday night, this year's dress code is: "Welcome to the jungle!". This leaves a lot of room for interpretation, and it always surprises and delights us to see how creative our guests are in interpreting the dress code.
That is why we have decided to create a jury for the first time that will award the three most wonderful outfits of the night. So, whether you decide on a leopard costume or show up as Tarzan and Jane, your imagination has no limits. However, the most important thing about a dress code is: it is not a carnival party and you do not need to "dress up," but rather adapt the theme to your personal style. Your comfort on this special night comes first.
Etiquette
Not only does your appearance influence your presence, but also your behavior. Therefore, here are some etiquette suggestions so that all guests, players, and employees feel comfortable:
Arrive early, before the matches begin. This shows respect for the players and the organizers, and you won't miss any of the action. Polo is a social sport. Therefore, the event is ideal for meeting new people and enjoying the company of others. Just remember how you would like to be treated. Small talk (talking to strangers) is always positive. So say something nice or stay quiet.
Maintain respect at all times and avoid negative comments. Do not make too much noise during the match (except to cheer for the teams). Keep your mobile phone as invisible as possible, except for taking photos. Stay until the end of the event; the players appreciate a full tent. Even if your favorite team doesn't win, it is good manners 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 the article in this brochure).
THE STYLE CONNECTION – Seestrasse 457a – 8038 Zurich – Phone 044 340 02 72 – simone.styger@styleconnection.ch