17 January, 2023

Promotional Polo Shirts: How They Became Popular

If you look through catalogues from a decade ago, you’ll notice that the array of promotional products available today is vastly different from those available in the past.

From polo shirts to coffee mugs and water bottles to baseball caps, you can find various products used as promotional giveaways by businesses. But what’s the story behind this massive change? How did polo shirts become popular, like so many other promotional items? It all started with the promotional products boom of the 1990s.

History of Polo Shirts
Polo shirts have been around since the 6th century until the 1920s, when they were first introduced by French tennis player Rene Lacoste. At the time, they were seen as a more comfortable and stylish alternative to the traditional button-down shirt.

It wasn't until the 1960s that polo shirts began appearing in advertisements and becoming associated with leisure activities like golfing. In the 1970s, companies began using polo shirts as promotional products, and their popularity has only grown. Today, polo shirts are one of the most popular promotional items because they are stylish, versatile, and affordable.

Marketing Evolution
Polo shirts didn't always serve the purpose they do today. They were originally designed for a very different audience. It wasn't until companies started using them as promotional products that their popularity skyrocketed.

These items became so popular that people wore polo shirts even when they were not attending events. Since the first company experimented with polo shirts, other companies followed suit with this strategy, and now it's become the norm. Nowadays, you can find polo shirts with any logo imaginable — from universities to car dealerships.

Does Branding Work?
Promotional products are a billion industry, with over 500,000 companies involved in the production and distribution of these items. Of all the promotional products available, apparel is amongst the most popular categories.

Shirts make up 22% of all promotional product sales. And within the shirts category, polo shirts are one of the most popular styles. With their clean lines and timeless design, polo shirts represent a classic style that’s always on-trend. However, this particular garment wasn’t always so popular.

The shirt started as sporting attire for riders who participated in the game known as polo. Early versions were made from lightweight cotton fabrics like pique or percale (we know them today as bedsheets), but some were also made from silk and even nylon.

The Future of Customised Apparel
Polo shirts have long been a staple of casual wear, but in recent years they've become popular as promotional products as well. Thanks to their versatility and comfort, polo shirts are ideal for wearing to work, the gym, or out on the town.

And with custom printing available, businesses can use them to promote their brand in various ways. Whether you're looking for a new way to market your business or simply want a comfortable shirt, promotional polo shirts are a great option.

References
https://www.heddels.com/2019/04/history-polo-shirt-rene-lacoste-ralph-lauren/

https://sanvt.com/blogs/journal/the-history-of-the-polo-shirt

The Polo Shirts Only Team