As the new unsung hero of warm-weather clothing, the towelling polo shirt has redefined holiday dressing. The days of using terry cloth solely for robes and towels have gone. Its softness, breathability and ability to absorb moisture make for the perfect tropical weather shirt, which is why it’s a Love Brand favourite.
What Is a Towelling Polo?
A towelling polo refers to a short-sleeve shirt crafted from terry cloth. Towelling polos are different from standard pique polos. They have a soft, looped texture that absorbs moisture well. This makes them great for hot weather or for wearing after swimming.
The versatility of terry is unmatched. It’s just as popular among tennis players to keep cool in matches as it is among poolside loungers. A towelling polo is lightweight, easy to style, and refined. It connects resort wear with everyday comfort, which is why it has become a holiday essential.
Why Is It Called Terry Towelling?
The term ‘terry cloth’ is believed to come from the French verb “tirer,” which means “to pull,” which makes perfect sense given how the fabric is made. In traditional weaving, you have a warp and a weft. For terry fabric, an extra set of warp yarns is added, and it’s these extra yarns that are used to form the loops on the surface of the fabric.
The Retro Roots of the Towelling Shirt
Terry had a boom in popularity in the 50s and 60s, becoming popular as a beachwear material. It then hit the big screen and catapulted into everyday wardrobes thanks to an iconic appearance in the 1964 James Bond classic Goldfinger. Who can forget Sean Connery’s baby-blue playsuit?
But for a fabric so evocative of The Swinging Sixties, its origins actually date all the way back to 4000BC, with pieces being linked to ancient Egypt and pre-Columbian Peru.
Why Is the Towel Shirt Having a Comeback?
The rise of relaxed, resort wear has made comfortable, textured pieces like the terry polo shirt a wardrobe essential. Modern men are seeking pieces that combine effortless style with comfort, and the towelling polo fits the bill perfectly.
It’s versatile enough to wear over swim shorts by day or paired with linen trousers for evening drinks, making it a practical yet stylish addition to any holiday wardrobe. The terry towelling shirt mixes old-fashioned charm with modern style. It's quickly become one of the most popular menswear items over the past few years.
Is Terry Towelling 100% Cotton?
At Love Brand it is! We have a range of timeless terry pieces in classic old money colourways, all crafted from 100% organic soft cotton. From the new ‘Yacht Blue’ shade inspired by Bahamian seas, to the classic white polo, all of our mens towelling polo shirts are made in Europe and designed to last for generations.
The towelling polo has travelled a long way, from ancient origins to 60s movie icons to the suitcase of the modern traveller. For anyone building a summer wardrobe that blends heritage style with everyday ease, a towel shirt is an investment that will work season after season. Explore our range and find the piece that will follow you from beach to bar.
