Garryowen! Nine ways to line out in rugby shirts

"Ireland squares off against France on Saturday at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. This much I know, which is surprising as I am the least sporty person you are likely to meet."

Thu, 06 Mar, 2025 - 17:44

Annmarie O’Connor

Ireland squares off against France today at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.

This much I know, which is surprising as I am the least sporty person you are likely to meet.

That said, I will most likely be wearing one of spring’s stylish rugby shirts. What can I say? It’s an occupational hazard.

Although my budget doesn’t allow for the ruched asymmetry of Dries Van Noten or the cool-girl chutzpah of Copenhagen Fashion Week, plenty of high street contenders will give me the sartorial advantage. Here are the ground rules.

The overarching vibe is striped with a loose fit (check out H&M), ideally French-tucked into jeans or a skirt and worn with anything from kitten heels to loafers or if nostalgia demands it – boat shoes.

Go full tilt with a stiff popped collar or show support with low-key knitted brethren like those at Seasalt Cornwall.

Purists might red card me for suggesting striped shirts that verge on referee territory (hello, Zara).

I’ll take the penalty in addition to the covetable dress at M&S that I’m fully prepared to call activewear.

Should tackling horizontal stripes inspire dread, look to placement panelling (Crew Clothing is a winner) on the top half or go vertical and create space with a deep front placket.

Feeling playful? Go oversized with a colourful creation by Polo Ralph Lauren. Add a leather mini and Mary Janes (very Bella Hadid) and you’ve got a fan favourite.

Remember: rugby but make it fashion. Anything to do with the sport itself–ask one of my sisters.

GET THE LOOK:

A model walks the runway during the Dries Van Noten Womenswear Spring/Summer 2024 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on September 27, 2023, in Paris, France.