We all know and love the pique polo shirt—the sturdy cotton fabric style that’s oh-so-easy to throw on this time of year—but I say it’s time to consider a level-up to the classic silhouette.

Enter the knit polo shirt.

What is a knit polo shirt?

With a beautiful drape and an even more luscious hand-feel, this top really teeters the line of all other tops. It’s collared—but it’s more comfortable than your standard button-up shirt. It’s all the coziness of a sweater, but it’s made for warm weather.

How should a knit polo shirt fit?

It has short sleeves, but is somehow elevated enough to wear for things you would consider “occasions.” It looks good with everything and feels even better on. 

Below, check out five knit polo shirt outfits for guys:

TO THE BEACH

The knit polo shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch

shoes: Guanabana (similar) | pants: Todd Snyder | sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Styling tips: Who’s shining brighter: the sun or this fit?

Seriously, though, be sure to throw on some timeless sunnies to protect your eyes. I know we’ve all been inside for a year…those rays will get you!

RELATED: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Polo Shirts

White jeans and a casual shoe like an espadrille will keep your look cool from the sand to the street.

FOR DATE NIGHT

sneakers: Converse | chore jacket: Todd Snyder | pants: Alex Mill

Styling tips: The knit polo adds a luxe touch to your standard workwear-inspired pieces, making them feel special enough for a fun night out.

A bonus? The shirt’s golden color looks exceptionally cool with the French blue and olive tones in this combo. 

THE TIKI BAR

pants: Bonobos | huarache sandals: Nisolo

Styling tips: The vintage vibe of a knit polo is right at home a tiki bar. Add some huaraches to play to the theme—fashion should be fun!—and add some tech pants to keep the look modern.

The whole look says “I’ll take a corndog, and we’d like a scorpion bowl for the table.”

TO BRUNCH OR AN OUTDOOR WEDDING

sandals: Birkenstock | pants: J.Crew | necklace: Miansai

Styling tips: Casual elegance works equally well for brunch attire as it does a beach wedding. That’s because a knit polo with linen trousers is equal parts dressed up and laid-back.

To keep these pants on the casual side, throw on a gold chain and slip on your Birkenstocks (you’ve got a pair by now, right?!), you’re ready for morning mimosas or a sunset toast to the happy couple. 

AT A BACKYARD BBQ

shorts: Banks Journal | sneakers: Greats

Styling tips: Remember the other look that paired well with a corndog? Meet another carnival treat-appropriate option.

These corduroy shorts and classic sneakers would look right at home next to the grill..the only bummer is having to throw an apron over it.

Shop #SGapproved knit polo shirts:

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Knit polo shirt outfits? Check.

Now, check out more ways to wear espadrilles, white jeans, and drawstring shorts this summer.