The Henley: an underrated item of casual wear
Henley's are among the most underrated piece of casual clothing for men.
When it comes to casual menswear, the polo shirt reigns supreme.
Don’t get me wrong. Polos are the king for a reason. They’re comfortable, versatile, and make you look much more put-together than a typical T-shirt.
It is not by chance that the most stylish men among us are often caught wearing the American classic Polo Ralph Lauren.
This universal popularity of polos, however, also casts a shadow on other versatile casual menswear pieces that haven’t had the opportunity to take the stage, including the Henley.
The Henley looks like a t-shirt with a buttoned placket and without a lapel-like collar. It is essentially a more dress-down cousin of the Polo and has existed for a shorter period.
The Henley is a great alternative for a t-shirt because its buttoned placket adds more visual interest to your outfit. For this reason, you can do quite a bit of layering with a henley, including wearing it under knitwear like the photo above.
You can also wear it with a pair of jeans and a leather jacket to bring about that youthful vibe on a nice sunny day. If you are aiming to look a bit more business casual, a pair of quality chinos and a sport coat should help you get ready for the office.
Another reason why Henleys are a great alternative to Polos is the fact that some people look a lot older wearing Polos in their casual uniforms. I am such person. Wearing a polo often makes me look more tense, serious, and I feel like I’m someone in my late 30s. This is why I take advantage of the relaxed and youthful appearance that Henleys provide in my casual outfits. I look younger and more at ease with myself in Henleys.
If you happen to worry that wearing a Henley doesn’t feel sporty enough, worry not! The original Henleys were actually sportswear worn by rowers in England. It wasn’t until Ralph Lauren discovered them that they became slowly integrated in everyday life as shirt garments.
Just like the Polos, the Henleys have their roots in sports. Knowing this, comfort is guaranteed whenever you put on a Henley. And I hope you do, because they don’t get enough credit!
Be honest, intentional, and elegant.
Stylishly yours,
Gent Z