Sports has never had a closer relationship with fashion than right now. Dressing well for the action – whether you’re watching or participating – has been cemented as a desirable pastime.
Whether it’s the Australian Open, the Formula One, the Sail GP or even the northern hemisphere’s imminent Winter Olympics and FIFA World Cup, 2026 is shaping up to be a huge year where luxury brands, fans and sportspeople wholeheartedly embrace the symbiotic relationship between sports and fashion.
The latest sport you can display your affinity for? New Zealand’s polo scene.
Fashion has always been part of the conversation when it comes to polo season. While your mind may leap to floaty print dresses paired with sunhats, or the smart, button-placket shirt literally named after the game, the latest release feels more like wearing your sport on your sleeve, merch wise. In a chic way, of course.
Kiwi designer Caitlin Crisp has just released a capsule collection inspired by the smart-casual style and match-side culture of the posh team equestrian sport.
The ‘Polo Club Capsule’ has been timed to land in the lead-up the the country’s most prestigious polo event, the Milford New Zealand Polo Open, happening in mid-February.
There’s a hat, a tote and a cotton-knit in crisp white with navy detailing, the clean designs capturing that country-club, field-side aesthetic that’s a vibe everywhere right now, ensuring they remain favourites long after the winning team lifts the trophy.
That’s during the 2026 Milford New Zealand Polo Open, taking place on Sunday 15 February 2026 at the Auckland Polo Club in Clevedon.
Though most of the action at the summer-favourite event takes place between the goal posts, there’s plenty on offer besides. The classic stomping of the divots (if you’ve seen Pretty Woman you’ll know what we mean) is a highlight, plus plenty of hospitality suites, food and drink and even a Horsepower vs Horse Power race, between a polo pony and a Land Rover.
The Polo Club Capsule is available from caitlincrisp.com.
