Sport
Guide
What to wear to Chestertons Polo In The Park: a handy guide
So, you want to look the part at Chestertons Polo In The Park? Here's our handy guide.
Polo is one of the world’s oldest equestrian sports. But don’t expect the fashion on display to be as dated when you arrive at Chestertons Polo In The Park this summer.
Fear not: there won’t be moustachioed gentlemen in full three-piece suits, top hats and monocles, while the feminine audience certainly won’t be suffocating in corsets, petticoats and bonnets – even though bonnets have actually made an unlikely fashion comeback in 2025.
But since its inception in 2009, Chestertons Polo In The Park has become the world’s largest and most prestigious polo competitions, rivaling annual events like the London Marathon and Wimbledon in terms of stature.
So, are you struggling with what to wear? Here’s our handy guide.
Think smart-casual with a touch of class
Smart-casual is the universal language of dressing for an occasion – you’ll never feel out of place as you straddle the line between a formal affair and an afternoon frolic with a spritz firmly in hand. But this is Polo In The Park, so why not zhuzh your outfit up a bit? Bear in mind it’s not the MET Gala, so there’s no need to don a 40ft long chainmail dress or a bejewelled tuxedo lined with rare red diamonds.
There’s no better excuse than to crack out that little Chanel number from your best pal’s engagement bash that you thought you might not wear any time soon, with a bold coloured, chic blazer for when the sun starts to set – with pockets perfect for stashing away those slimline ciggies for a cheeky smoke once the bubbly has been flowing freely. Even plump for a polo shirt. They’re in fashion again, and it’s quite literally in the name of the event.
Keep it simple, but keep it classy. Likewise, an airy linen suit is always a great shout for the fellas in attendance, coupled with a Ralph Lauren shirt or the like as 90s style plaid is back. Failing that, the ever versatile chinos are always a safe bet. Have fun with it. As long as those trousers are pressed.
Be optimistic: sunglasses are essential
Us Brits love a moan about the weather. So why not manifest some serious summer rays in the thick of June by wearing your most expensive sunnies. Think Anna Wintour in her iconic Prada’s or exude that effortless 007 cool like Daniel Craig in his Vuarnet Legend 06’s.
The bigger the sunglasses the better. Oversized is in. Mystery is your friend. Be an enigma. Make no mistake: sunglasses can drastically impact your style. Also, you want to make sure you’re getting the best view of what’s happening on the polo pitch, so protect as much of your sightline from the glare as possible.
For those thinking designer all the way, go Bottega Veneta. For those that don’t want to risk any bums accidentally crushing your favourite pair of sunnies, Ray-Ban Wayfarers are always a classic that suit every outfit from any era.
Make sure the shoes are on point
The British summer does tend to offer up more dilemmas than most other countries when it comes to choosing outfits for the season, given the tendency for the weather to quite literally rain on our parade. Picking the perfect footwear often provides the greatest quandary, especially when you’re anywhere near a field.
But it’s not like you’ll be mucking in with the jockeys, is it? As long as the paths to the bars are paved, you should most definitely slip on those Louboutin’s. Gentlemen, I doubt there’s a greater option than a slick leather loafer than slots snugly onto your foot like Cinderella’s glass slipper. How else are you going to show off those dainty ankles chaps? Trainer socks at the ready.
No Polo In The Park outfit is complete without accessories
Now, accessories are where your outfit comes into its own. They’re where you add your own individuality to an ensemble, or bring out the real status symbols. That Rolex you’ve grafted long and hard during late night stints at the office for? Crack it on. The priceless pearl necklace heirloom passed down to you by your nan? Adorn it proudly.
The oversized theme comes into play with accessories too. Go big with the gold earrings. Go big with the belt buckles. Go big with the designer handbag. Go. Big.
What not to wear…
Whilst there’s no strictly enforced dress code for Polo In The Park, you don’t want to stick out like a prized plum of a plonker. Jeans are acceptable, but might get some stern glares in the VIP section.
Ultimately, feeling comfortable is key. So if that’s making you feel like the belle of the ball or just sticking to smart-casual in its purest form then go for it. Definitely avoid the board shorts or jogging bottoms however, even if they’re branded in Gucci logos.
