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ICYMI, rugby shirts are no longer confined to the field or sidelines. The sporty chic style delivers just the right balance of preppy and modern with a crisp collar, color-blocking stripes, and a slightly oversized fit that looks so effortlessly cool.
- Rugby shirts are trending for spring/summer 2026.
- The comfortable, preppy rugby shirt is the perfect alternative to a casual T-shirt.
- We asked stylist Samantha Brown how to style a rugby shirt for everyday life.
Buying the rugby shirt is just your first step, though. You have to style it so you don't look like a washed-up former athlete who's still trying to look the part. The good news? We tapped celebrity stylist Samantha Brown to help us all accomplish that task.
"Rugby shirts are a perfect t-shirt stand-in, and can be styled in so many ways. Pair them with Jean shorts for a casual, effortless look," she tells E!.
"Tuck them into bermudas, and add a fun belt for a twist of classic American prep. I even like them styled back to a silk slip skirt for a more unexpected, offbeat pairing. In a pinch, they’re cute with leggings like these from Miraclesuit. Just add lettuce socks and a fun sneaker to complete the look with a baseball hat. "
Keep scrolling for expert advice on how to style rugby shirts—and our favorite styles to shop.
How to Style a Rugby Shirt for Daytime:
Stylist tip: "Add Jean or silk shorts, jelly flip-flops and a crossbody bag."
Lenader Long-Sleeve Striped Rugby Shirt
This long-sleeve rugby shirt comes in so many different color combos and has a lightweight feel so you won't overheat—especially when paired with satin lace shorts.
SANIKAWA Crossbody Bag
This Longchamp lookalike is so chic and will polish up your rugby shirt so effortlessly. Plus, it gets bonus points for being such a compact and easy-to-carry size.
Rumored Bloom Short
The quality and comfort of these Rumored shorts is unmatched. The silk-like fabric feels luxurious and the detail on the delicate lace trim is so intricately done.
Free People Beach Day Jelly Sandals
These on-trend jelly flip-flops will complete the laid-back, cool girl 'fit while keeping you so comfy. Shoppers said they're "perfect for casual summer days" and "love how light they are."
How to Style a Rugby Shirt for a Night Out:
Stylist tip: "Front tuck a rugby shirt into a sequin or lace skirt and add kitten heels."
Qmlyev Oversized Knit Rugby Shirt
This knit style feels slightly less casual than other versions, and pairs so well with a little slip skirt underneath. Snag the under $35 shirt in a classic, neutral shade or pop of color (maybe both).
Neavuge Satin Mini Skirt
Not only does this $17 mini skirt look so much more expensive than it is (!!!) but reviewers said it feels "so soft against [their skin] and the "patchwork details add that flirty retro charm without feeling overdone."
Steve Madden Edna Black Leather Heels
The perfect kitten heel for the pairing? These Steve Madden strappy sandals that provide just the right lift without sacrificing comfort.
Accessories That Elevate a Rugby Shirt:
Stylist tip: "Push up the sleeves and stack some bangles on your wrist to add polish."
GOOJIDS Simple Beaded Gold Plated Bangles
The gold hardware on these beaded bangles balances out the look so well for a summery yet luxe vibe. Shoppers said they're "chic and elegant," and can be worn individually for "a subtle addition to any outfit or stacked together for a bold statement piece."
More Stylist-Approved Rugby Shirts:
Alo Take It Easy Long Sleeve Henley Pullover
Brown says this Alo rugby shirt is "perfect for apres yoga" and looks so good with a simple pair of leggings. "Add a trench to polish the look," she says.
ICYMI: Old Navy x Christopher John Rogers' collaboration is here—and it's a colorful maximalist dream for your closet.
How We Choose
The E! Insider Shop editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews, and use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think our readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not E!. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
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