Introducing the only polo shirt you need this summer
From Luca Faloni comes the Brera, a modern take on the classic garment
Who really invented the polo shirt? It’s an interesting question. The answer most fashionistas stick to is Jean Rene Lacoste, the legendary French tennis player. However, according to history, the style made its first appearance back in the 19th Century, when British soldiers in India set up a Polo Club and needed a cotton shirt to keep them cool and comfortable.
And then, of course, there are the multiple additions and revisions that have been made to the design throughout history.
When John E Brooks, grandson of the successful US firm Brooks Brothers, came to England to watch polo matches, he was drawn to how player’s collars wouldn’t flap around in the wind. Upon returning to the US, he applied this quirk to his own shirts.
"From Luca Faloni comes the Brera, a modern take on the classic garment..."
Similarly, Jean Rene Lacoste introduced pique cotton into the design of his polo shirt, to afford breathability to the garment – a move that is still de rigeur to this day.
More recently the Italian brand Luca Faloni, famous for linen shirts and cashmere knitwear, launched their own version of a polo shirt, with clear Italian influence. Tailored in Italy with a comfortable slim fit, the Brera is woven from a premium blend of cotton so the fabric is resistant, provides and good fit and is breathable to keep you dry.
Prewashed – to ensure no shrinkage – the cotton garment comes in neutral shades in an effort to make it more timeless and versatile with the rest of your summer wardrobe. And, while the material is that of a polo, the the collar and cuffs are those of a shirt – upping the garment’s versatility even further.
This signature ‘Paramontura’ collar provides a lasting shape for an overall classic look, and the mother of pearl buttons – another staple of Luca Faloni’s clothing – add a touch of elegance to a predominantly casual piece.
Finally, and in a clever touch we love at Gentleman’s Journal, the Brera is the same length front and back – a design feature that helps to avoid any untucking of cotton when worn with a belt. This means you can not only wear the polo all year around, but also in a setting of any formality.
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