A Band Collar Polo Shirt Designed to Fit and Enhance a Well-Trained Physique

Tomohiro Hayashi

We are pleased to present a bespoke polo shirt created for our client. Featuring a band collar, a fit designed to complement a well-trained physique, and a range of distinctive details, this piece reflects a highly personalized approach. We hope it serves as a helpful reference for those seeking their ideal polo shirt.

Background of the Order

　S, who had been working in the United States, recently returned to Japan after several years. Upon returning, he realized that he did not have clothing suitable for Japan's summer--something casual yet still presentable to a certain degree.

　A polo shirt is one of the most common summer tops for business casual use. However, S was unable to find ready-made polo shirts that properly fit his physique, which had been developed through regular workouts. Additionally, he could not find a polo shirt with the band collar he had envisioned. After researching online, he discovered our store.

Fabric

　The selected fabric is one of the signature materials for our polo shirts: 100% cotton piqué from the Italian mill Caccioppoli. Available in 14 colors, ranging from classic tones such as black, navy, and brown to vibrant shades like red and turquoise blue. It offers excellent comfort against the skin, and its texture naturally evolves with repeated washing. From this range, S selected green.

　One concern with 100% cotton knit fabrics is shrinkage after washing. Even with made-to-order garments, significant shrinkage would compromise the intended fit.
　To prevent this, we incorporate a pre-washing process before sewing. Once the fabric arrives from Italy, we wash and air-dry it in advance to allow it to shrink before sending it to the factory. As a result, the fabric has already stabilized, minimizing size changes after completion.

Finished Garment

　
　The low band collar provides a relaxed feel similar to a Henley-neck T-shirt. The placket is kept narrow for a clean appearance.
　The only ready-made item S had previously favored was a band collar polo shirt purchased abroad from a French brand. This time, both the fabric and design were selected to closely reflect that preferred piece.

　The buttons are made of natural brown shell, which pairs beautifully with the green fabric. Despite its simple construction, the high-quality fabric, buttons, and careful craftsmanship elevate the overall sophistication of the polo shirt.

Fitting

　S tried on the finished garment. The length and sleeve length were adjusted to his preference for a cleaner look, and it pairs very well with the slim cotton trousers he wore that day.

　The measuring process was also slightly different from usual. Typically, we take body measurements such as shoulder width, chest, waist, and hips, and then add an appropriate amount of ease based on preference.
　However, S preferred a fit that closely follows his trained physique, highlighting the body line while maintaining a clean silhouette. Therefore, the shoulder width, chest, and sleeve opening were intentionally set smaller than his actual body measurements. This type of fitting is possible thanks to the stretch characteristics of piqué fabric.

　"Made-to-order" means tailoring to the client's desired size. However, depending on whether the desired fit is relaxed, regular, or close-fitting, the "ideal measurements" and resulting silhouette will vary. This is both the challenge and the appeal of made-to-order garments.

　To determine the fit around the chest and shoulders, S tried on sample polo shirts in different sizes while comparing measurements and discussing preferences. Through this process, we achieved the ideal fit he envisioned--neither too tight nor too loose.

　The carefully selected band collar suits S's sporty and refreshing appearance very well. With washing, the garment will continue to mold even more comfortably to his body.

　The sleeve opening width was also adjusted to his preference. For short-sleeve polo shirts and shirts, the sleeve length and opening width are key visual elements.
　In S's case, the sleeve opening was intentionally made narrower than his arm circumference to emphasize his muscular build while maintaining a clean appearance. The sleeve length was set just above the biceps. When worn, the sleeve opening stretches slightly, creating a close fit that enhances the shape of the upper arm and results in an excellent overall appearance.

　An initial was subtly embroidered on the left sleeve in a color matching the fabric.

　S was very pleased with the finished garment and wore it immediately to his next appointment. When we later followed up, we were delighted to hear that it had received excellent feedback from his family and those around him, and that he continues to wear it regularly. S, thank you very much for your cooperation with the photography and interview.

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