Rugby‑Striped Shirts: From Red Carpets to Your Closet

When the cool breeze starts flirting with your wardrobe, you want a piece that feels both sporty and polished—something that says, “I tried, but not too hard.” Enter the rugby‑style striped polo, the unexpected hero of fall 2026.

It wasn’t a runway backstage that put this look on the map. During a lively appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, sportscaster Erin Andrews slipped into a long‑sleeve, blue‑and‑white striped rugby shirt. She paired it with light‑washed jeans and a handful of dangling gold bracelets, giving off a breezy college‑campus vibe that somehow felt grown‑up enough for a morning interview.

Not to be out‑done, Julia Roberts was photographed strolling the streets of New York last summer in a short‑sleeve version of the same striped silhouette. The actress kept her ensemble low‑key with skinny jeans and sleek flats, proving the piece works just as well for a city‑side coffee run as it does for a TV set.

So why are these two very different stars gravitating toward the same style? For one, the rugby shirt offers that sweet spot of structure and softness. The higher collar and button‑front give a touch of preppy formality, while the lightweight knit keeps you from overheating when the sun lingers.

If you’re thinking, “Great, but my budget can’t stretch to designer labels,” breathe easy. The Thopavenoir Striped Rugby Polo, currently listed for $27 on Amazon, mirrors the blue‑dominant colorway both Andrews and Roberts chose, with subtle pops of brown and yellow that add a little visual interest.

Shoppers seem to agree. One reviewer called it a “true Y2K vibe” and praised its “soft, comfortable feel,” noting the intentionally boxy fit works with the overall aesthetic. Another user said the shirt “looks even better in person” and compared it favorably to a higher‑priced designer counterpart.

Practicality is another win. The long sleeves and higher collar keep you cozy on crisp mornings, yet the fabric is breathable enough for midday warmth. Roll up the cuffs, leave a couple of buttons undone, or layer it over a simple white tee for added warmth—the options are endless.

And you’re not the only one adding it to a cart. From Amazon to Nordstrom, Quince, and Anthropologie, retailers are stocking versions of this rugby‑stripe, each with its own twist. Whether you prefer a slimmer cut, a brighter hue, or extra details like a chest pocket, there’s likely a rendition that fits your vibe.

Bottom line: the rugby‑striped polo has graduated from a niche athletic piece to a fall staple that can transition from campus‑inspired casual to polished weekend wear. Grab the $27 Amazon option while it’s still in stock, and start styling your own preppy‑cool look before the trend inevitably floods the streets.