Gareth Southgate has consistently worn the same M&S polo shirt to all of England’s Euro 2024 matches, leading fans to wonder if the £45 summer style steal has brought him the same luck as his famous World Cup waistcoat.
Gareth Southgate: The Unlikely Fashion Icon
England football manager Gareth Southgate became an unexpected menswear style icon during the previous World Cup thanks to his ‘lucky’ Marks & Spencer waistcoat. The waistcoat quickly caught the eye of the world’s media, turning Southgate into a fashion sensation.
However, Southgate has taken a more relaxed approach to his managerial attire during the Euro 2024 matches. The Express newspaper reports that Southgate has not worn a waistcoat during Euro 2024, admitting that he felt “too rigid” in one at the 2018 World Cup. Instead, he has opted for a simpler shirt and blazer look, often complemented by a raincoat, as seen during the delayed Euro 2020 tournament in 2021.
The M&S Polo Shirt Craze
With Marks & Spencer being the Official Tailor to the England Football Team since 2007, it’s no surprise that Southgate’s new favorite piece of kit comes from the high street brand’s latest official England collection. His £45 M&S pure cotton zip-up polo shirt has become a major talking point, with many Euro fans wondering if Southgate owns only one polo shirt.
Southgate has re-worn this stylish polo shirt to all of England’s matches so far, including their surprising win against Slovenia. The polo shirt’s popularity has led to a surge in sales, with many sizes selling out quickly.
Fans React to Southgate’s New Look
Social media users, especially on platforms like X, have been quick to comment on Southgate’s new look. Many fans appreciate his updated style. One viewer said, “Whatever happens, I am here for Gareth Southgate’s knit zipped polo shirts.” Another fan asked, “Where’s your polo from?” in hopes of getting one for themselves.
Southgate’s influence on menswear this summer is undeniable. One fan noted, “Important style news: Gareth Southgate says suits and waistcoats are over and ‘soft knits’ – ie the ubiquitous and now supremely Dadcore knitted polo – are in.”
How to Get the Look
The M&S Milano knitted polo shirt, part of the M&S X ENGLAND collection, has been a hit due to its on-screen popularity. If your size is unavailable, you can try the Pure Cotton Textured Knitted Polo Shirt for £45, which is similar but lacks the zip-up collar. Alternatively, M&S offers a slightly cheaper design from their mainline summer collection for £35, available in nine different colors.
Gareth Southgate’s choice of a simple yet stylish £45 M&S polo shirt has made waves among fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. His ability to blend comfort with style has not only resonated with fans but has also sparked a trend. As England continues its Euro 2024 journey, fans eagerly await to see if this lucky polo shirt will bring more success.
