Rugby shirts are one of autumn's hottest trends. I'm a fashion editor and here's how to wear yours (without looking frumpy)
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We’ve just witnessed the biggest summer of women’s sport - roll the Lionesses Euros victory tape! And now we’re in for an autumn that promises to be just as exciting on another pitch, as the Red Roses continue their winning streak in the Rugby World Cup.
Thanks to the hype around these matches, searches for rugby shirts on ASOS are up 300%, as spectators look to emulate their heroines on the pitch.
Brands have also taken new season style inspiration straight from the kit on the touchline; Prada and Miu Miu sent micro-striped versions down their AW25 catwalks tucked into mini skirts, city shorts and poking out from under sharp collared trench coats.
A designer iteration from the latter will set you back £990. This price-tag seems a snip to its celebrity wearers; the supermodels Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid are big fans of the off-duty look. Even Rihanna and Taylor Swift have worn their expensive jerseys to watch their peers at concerts or their husbands on the American football field.
But the high street has a plentiful offering with clashing stripes and preppy styles that won’t pinch your purse - yet look just as chic. George at ASDA's is only £17 and it's one of the nicest I have found. Bershka and Lindex also stock must-have rugger tops for less than £30.
While this trend is ageless and makes for an effortless outfit combination with your denim, if styled badly it can make you look frumpy, mumsy and outdated.
Avoid the blue and white Breton striped versions - we don’t want you looking as though you’ve just moored a boat in Devon. Similarly garish neon stripes are a no-no. But rather, muted neutral earthy tones are a real go-go.
Don't pick designs that have a logo embossed on the chest either: this will only make you look stuffy, and as though you've taken the wrong turn from the country club. Pairing yours with a string of pearls will have a similar effect - stick to gold or silver toned jewellery instead.
If you have a flat chest, button up to the top, as was seen on the runway. But if you’re busty, open up your neckline and break up the shape of the shirt by unbuttoning to the bottom. Otherwise, you might end up looking frumpy and matronly.
Rather than letting the hem hang loose, French tucking the shirt into the front of your waistband will make this boxy silhouette far more flattering. And don’t just stick to pairing yours with jeans. This top is so versatile, it will work with pleated skirts, leather trews and tailored trousers.
A rugby pullover will even work with leggings and trainers when you’re running errands or walking the dog. Whatever you do, don’t wear yours with white shorts and knee high socks - or risk being asked to join the scrum.
Scroll to shop the affordable rugby shirt edit below
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