We once knew the polo shirt as conservative, buttoned-up, reserved for golf and preppy parties. In 2026, it's completely changing sides. Worn oversized, mixed with raw denim jeans or cargo shorts, it's becoming a central piece of streetwear under the tenniscore label. At CLRE, we saw the shift coming: here's why this trend is taking off, and how to wear it without looking like you've just stepped off a tennis court.
What exactly is tenniscore?
Tenniscore blends the sporty aesthetic of tennis courts (stripes, structured collars, off-white, vibrant colors) with current streetwear codes: loose fits, layering, chunky sneakers. The runways have confirmed it in recent months: striped polo shirts in fashion shows, cropped versions, quarter-zip styles... The ultimate preppy piece has become a playground for stylists, from luxury houses to independent brands like ours.
Concretely, it creates a wardrobe that mixes sport and street: a striped polo shirt worn under a coach jacket, or alone with loose shorts and sneakers. The idea is no longer to play tennis, but to draw from its wardrobe to create a relaxed look that still has style.
Why the polo shirt is becoming a cult streetwear item again
Three reasons explain this comeback. First, the omnipresent hoodie fatigue: after several seasons of total oversized looks, streetwear silhouettes are becoming a little more structured, without sacrificing comfort. The polo shirt ticks this box: it has a collar, a shape, but remains loose and easy to wear.
Next, Y2K and 90s nostalgia continues to fuel current fashion, and the striped polo shirt is part of that retro-sporty imagery that we've all seen in photos from that era. Finally, it's a versatile piece: it can be worn during the day with jeans, in the evening with dressier pants, or in full streetwear mode with sweatpants.
How to wear the streetwear polo shirt, CLRE style
The casual oversized look
The simplest: a slightly oversized Black & White striped polo shirt, straight-leg jeans or straight-leg thick denim jeans, and white sneakers. No need to do more, the balance of stripes + raw denim works on its own.
The layered look
For a more sophisticated look, layer up. Slip a Basic Jersey Polo under a light jacket or vest, with the polo collar peeking out and sleeves rolled up. It's the detail that makes the difference between a basic look and a thoughtful one.
The bright color look
Tenniscore loves bold colors. A Yellow & Black striped polo shirt or a Red & White striped polo shirt immediately bring contrast to an otherwise neutral outfit (grey sweatpants, black shorts). It's the piece that brings the rest of the outfit to life.
Our selection of CLRE polo shirts
All our polo shirts are cut in loose/regular fit, in a cotton-elastane blend to maintain their shape without sacrificing comfort. Here is our selection to embrace the trend now:
- Jersey Polo - Basic: the streetwear staple, oversized fit, ideal for layering.
- Black & White Striped Polo - Basic: the timeless classic, easy to pair with anything.
- Green & Navy Striped Polo - Basic: the closest to the vintage tennis club spirit.
- Red & White Striped Polo - Basic: for a striking look, perfect as a central piece.
- Yellow & Black Striped Polo - Basic: the most statement version of the collection.
You can also find all the season's pieces in our Summer Streetwear Clothing collection and our essentials in Basics Collection.
How to choose the right streetwear polo shirt
Three criteria to check before buying. First, the cut: for a modern streetwear look, favor a loose fit over a fitted one, which falls nicely on the shoulders without being tight. Then, the material: a cotton-elastane blend maintains the collar's structure while remaining breathable, ideal for warm weather. Finally, the color: a classic striped color (black & white, navy blue) integrates into any wardrobe, while a bright color (yellow, red) should be worn as a statement piece, surrounded by neutral basics.
FAQ
What bottoms should I wear with a streetwear polo shirt?
With raw or distressed jeans, loose shorts, or even sweatpants for a more casual version. Just avoid overly fitted bottoms that disrupt the oversized balance.
Is the striped polo shirt more for summer?
It's its preferred season thanks to lightweight materials, but nothing prevents it from being worn year-round by layering it under a jacket or sweater in autumn-winter.
How do I know if the size is right for an oversized cut?
The shoulders should drop slightly, without extending past the mid-arm, and the length should cover the waistband without going lower than mid-buttock. If in doubt between two sizes, generally take the size up for the desired oversized effect.
Finish your tenniscore look with CLRE
The polo shirt is no longer a piece reserved for Sunday at the club: in 2026, it's a full-fledged streetwear essential, easy to wear and mix. Head to our Men's Streetwear collection to create your CLRE tenniscore look, or our Best Seller selection to spot the pieces favored by the community.