A guide to dressing for a polo match in Kelowna

Polo is an elegant sport, and attending a match can be an exciting experience.

It's an opportunity to enjoy the game, socialize, and dress to impress, though it's essential to strike the right balance between comfort and style.

Kelowna10 met up with Nicole Whittle, a creative director, who outlined some local fashion options at Boheme Collective and Rio Branner to ensure an appropriate look as the first-ever Kelowna Polo Classic gets underway on Aug. 5.

La Chaine Des Rotisseurs of the Okanagan Valley has partnered with the Okanagan Polo Club for a day of action, fancy hats, and entertainment.

The Chaine is an international food and wine society that supports young chefs and sommeliers. This event is an inaugural fundraiser with proceeds going to support the October 2024 International Young Sommelier Competition to be held in Kelowna.

“These events do tend to bring together people who want to have a fashionable event,” Whittle said.

Polo has always attracted a standard for high fashion, but the modern look has roots in the 1970s, when Ralph Lauren invented his iconic polo shirt.

“That equestrian looks and feel quickly became synonymous with polo events,” she added.

She hopes people make an effort to stand out this weekend, and appreciates the tiny details – be it additional feather or a pocket square – to elevate an outfit.

Below are some tips from Whittle for standing out in your polo wear this weekend:

Ladies:

• Women can embrace summer vibes with dresses that have bold patterns and colours. Summer dresses are great, be it long or a shorter dress to help manage the Okanagan sun.
• Comfortable footwear is as important as your outfit. Flat-soled or wedge shoes are recommended, allowing you to navigate the grassy fields with ease. Keep in mind that stilettos might sink into the grass.
• When it comes to polo matches, headwear plays a crucial role. A fancy hat not only adds a touch of elegance but can also protect you from the sun. Opt for a wide-brimmed hat in vibrant colors or a classic white to make a fashion statement. And, if you’ve always wanted to but never made the commitment, it can be a great time for a fascinator.

Gentlemen:

• A tailored blazer or sport coat paired with a crisp shirt is the way to go. Many in Kelowna hit a dilemma: whether to wear a more refined linen jacket and linen dress pants with loafers, or white denim, boots, and a more rustic linen jacket for the more sporty look. In the end, it might come down to the lightest fabric if the day is above 30 C. Comfort is always key.
• On the footwear side, opt for comfortable brogues, loafers or smart sneakers that allow you to move freely while maintaining an air of sophistication.
• On top, men often wear a fedora or a cap to these events, though the possibilities are endless.

Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars and folding chairs. The Kelowna Polo Classic will be held at the Okanagan Polo Club from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. More details can be found here.