FASHION

All Hail The Rise Of The Rugby Shirt, The Sports-Centric Staple Loved By Princess Diana

No football knowledge required

It comes as no surprise that celebrities and designers continue to be inspired by Princess Diana’s style. From her sheep-adorned jumper—that Harry Styles famously wore—to her ode to ‘90s sportswear—effortlessly recreated by Hailey Bieber—but now, another one of Lady Di’s most-loved trends is on our radar.

Introducing: the rugby shirt.

The late Princess famously donned the sports-centric garment, particularly a cotton candy baby blue and light pink version paired with white denim, polished blue loafers and famous Tod’s ‘D-Bag’—that was named after her—while attending the Chelsea Harbour Health Club in 1997. Despite it having been 24 years since then, the trend continues to make waves.

Princess Diana
(Credit: Getty)

Of course, athletes could claim the sporty staple as their own but fashion’s It-crowd have taken on the horizontal stripe and contrast collar combo courtesy of the former royal. While most often seen on the sports field, rugby tops have been featured in (somewhat) recent collections by the likes of Stella McCartney, Lacoste and Marc Jacobs. 

Rugby Shirt
(Credit: Getty)

From fashion runways to street style, the classic striped shirt may have become the epitome of preppy dressing, but there’s a myriad of ways it can be styled to channel your inner Lady Di or otherwise.

Below, we’ve collected the best and most chic rugby shirts to shop—no football knowledge necessary.

Rugby Shirt

Striped cashmere rugby sweater by The Elder Statesman, $1473 at Matches Fashion

Rugby Tee
Presto Rugby Tee by Veronica Beard Jeans, $363.99 at Shopbop
Rugby Shirt

The Woman’s Rugby in White and Sky, $167.61 at KULE

Rugby Shirt

Striped wool and cashmere-blend sweater by Victoria Beckham, $860.60 at Net-A-Porter

Rugby Shirt

The Woman’s Rugby in Multi, $233.08 at KULE

Rugby Shirt

Jacques striped cotton sweater by Alex Mill, $164.88 at Net-A-Porter.

Rugby Shirt

Crystal-button striped polo cashmere sweater by GANNI, $545 at Matches Fashion

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