Rugby Shirts Are Quietly Taking Over Fall—Here Are the Best Ones to Buy, From $18

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Rugby Shirts Are Quietly Taking Over Fall—Here Are the Best Ones to Buy, From $18

Peek inside a shopping editor’s closet.

Three people wearing different rugby shirts while standing indoorsThree people wearing different rugby shirts while standing indoors

Byrdie

The streets of New York City are always my fashion litmus test. If I notice a piece styled in a million different eye-catching ways as I schlep from one neighborhood to another, I know I need it in my closet. My latest observation is at the intersection of preppy, sporty, and timeless fall fashion: the rugby shirt. This piece embodies versatility—and while it hits in the fashion cities, it also translates to the surrounding suburbs and beyond as a comfortable, vintage-inspired moment that everyone finds nostalgic.

What really made me want to invest in adding more high-quality rugby shirts to my wardrobe is their effortlessness and personality. They are equally relaxed and statement-making, aka my go-tos for chilly autumnal dressing. Here’s a peek into my collection—you’ll find luxe fabrics, bold patterns, striking and muted hues—all in that iconic, collar profile. Plus, how-tos on styling, whether you lean toward understated retro, laidback minimalist, or like to surprise with a pairing that intersects aesthetics.

Top Picks

Damson Madder Damson Madder Ilona Striped Rugby Jumper at Damsonmadder.com

Jump to Review

Frankie Shop Royan Striped Polo – Khaki Multi Stripe at Thefrankieshop.com

Jump to Review

SALE

Old Navy Oversized Rugby Polo at Old Navy$35$18

Jump to Review

Lioness Lioness Rebels Jersey at Shopbop.com$75

Jump to Review

J. Crew New premium-weight classic rugby shirt at Jcrew.com

Jump to Review

Tna Mighty Cotton at Aritzia.com

Jump to Review

Polo Ralph Lauren Jersey Shaped Rugby Shirt at Ralphlauren.com

Jump to Review

ReMADE By UO Overdyed Oversized Rugby Shirt at Urban Outfitters$55

Jump to Review

Damson Madder Remie Rugby Shirt at Anthropologie

Jump to Review

Damson Madder Damson Madder Ilona Striped Rugby Jumper

ilona striped rugby jumper - burg stripeilona striped rugby jumper - burg stripe
Credit: Damson Madder
View on Damsonmadder.com

I have so many praises to sing over this jumper. First: You can’t ignore the 100% cotton knit—it’s the level of cozy that has people snuggling into my hugs in the least weird way. If comfort is a non-negotiable, look no further. 

This rugby shirt isn’t as boxy as the average—it’s got that dreamy slouch that sits just right and is balanced by super intentional hems. Button it to the top or keep it open—both options work. (I love how it pairs over a white T-shirt, too, for that extra preppy look.)

Now to the colorways—for some, this combo of burgundy, cherry red, and cobalt may feel bold. I say lean in! Let it shine with your favorite baggy jeans (mine are The Tall Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg from Madewell) and a loafer (shout out to Ann Taylor for these fun Horsebit Woven Loafers). The look gives stylish intellectual without trying too hard. And for the icing on the cake: the ultra chic DM embroidered logo—a subtle detail that goes a long way.

a closeup and full body of a person wearing the Damson Madder Rugby Shirta closeup and full body of a person wearing the Damson Madder Rugby Shirt

Byrdie

Frankie Shop Royan Striped Polo – Khaki Multi Stripe

Frankie Shop Royan Striped Polo - Khaki Multi StripeFrankie Shop Royan Striped Polo - Khaki Multi Stripe
Credit: Frankie Shop
View on Thefrankieshop.com

Equal in quality to the last pick but different in vibe, we have the Frankie Shop rugby shirt. This iteration means business—it’s more fitted, structured, and thicker. And, yes, it’s as luxe as it looks. But I’d be remiss not to point out this shirt’s duality of funky and serious—check out the tailored collar in a surprisingly deep brown, sans the more expected and traditional white. Kudos to the brand for styling this shirt in a way that highlights its personality. It looks incredible over a white button-down and tie, paired with brown tights and shorts—truly accomplishing that business-meets-party feel. I took a similar approach, but with these baggy linen Bermuda shorts from Dissh and the perfect chunky black loafers.

a closeup and full body of a person wearing the Frankie Shop Rugby Shirta closeup and full body of a person wearing the Frankie Shop Rugby Shirt

Byrdie

Old Navy Oversized Rugby Polo

Old Navy Oversized Rugby PoloOld Navy Oversized Rugby Polo
Credit: Old Navy

$35

$18 at Old Navy

If you skimmed over the first two options to my Old Navy pick, you know what you like. Your vibe is one or a mix of the following: athleisure, overstated, fun, vibrant. This shirt delivers all of that—it’s the elevated, mature cousin of your favorite out-of-the-house T-shirt. Super lightweight and airy, not structured or boxy at all. It’s oversized and slouchy—no buttons to be found. You get all of that without sacrificing style—and one better, this top’s bold, feminine colorways make a statement that intrigues when complementing this traditionally masculine silhouette. My favorite way to style this shirt is with a white tennis skirt (mine are out of stock, but I love this option, too) and these funky Adidas Taekwondo Mei Ballet Flats.

a closeup and full body of a person wearing the Old Navy Rugby Shirta closeup and full body of a person wearing the Old Navy Rugby Shirt

Byrdie

More Rugby Shirts We Love

Read more:

Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/best-rugby-shirts-11825535


Analyse


Post not analysed yet. Do the magic.