A rugby shirt for women is a long-sleeved polo with a sturdy collar and bold stripes, and the luxury version comes knitted in wool, cut oversized, to wear like a jumper. Alanui's Team Alanui pieces are the strongest this season, and you can shop them with the wider long-sleeve tops and designer tops from the Alanui collection.
Key facts
- A rugby shirt is a striped long-sleeved polo with a sturdy collar
- Luxury versions are knitted in wool and cut oversized
- Alanui makes them in virgin wool as part of Team Alanui
- Tuck into wide trousers and add a loafer
Why the rugby shirt is back
The preppy revival brought collegiate stripes back into fashion, and the rugby shirt is its most practical piece: warm, easy and smarter than a sweatshirt. Knitted in virgin wool, it moves from weekend to office.
The edit
1. Rugby Club Double Collar Polo in Midnight Blue Multicolour
A double-collar rugby polo in midnight stripes, knitted in virgin wool.
2. Rugby Club Double Collar Polo in Russet Red Multicolour
The same in russet red stripes.
3. Rugby Club Polo in Midnight Blue Multicolour
The Rugby Club polo, a classic shape in midnight blue.
4. Rugby Club Double Sleeve Top in Evergreen Multicolour
A layered double-sleeve top in evergreen stripes.
5. Rugby Club Cardigan in Midnight Blue Multicolour
The Rugby Club cardigan, for when a shirt is not enough.
How it should fit
Alanui cuts its rugby pieces oversized by design. Take your usual size for a slouchy fit; the shoulder will drop and the sleeves are long enough to push up. Alanui sizes its knitwear in letters: XS is a UK 6, S a UK 8, M a UK 10, L a UK 12 and XL a UK 14. The Icon cardigan is oversized by design, so take your usual size. Full conversions are in our Alanui size guide.
How to style it
Tuck the front into wide trousers with a loafer, wear it over a pleated mini with knee socks, and put it under a tailored coat. Avoid matching it with sports trainers and joggers unless you want the full athletic look.
Frequently asked questions
What is a rugby shirt?
A long-sleeved polo with a sturdy collar and bold horizontal stripes, originally worn for rugby and now a preppy staple.
How should a women's rugby shirt fit?
Relaxed. Luxury knitted versions such as Alanui's are cut oversized, so take your usual size.
How do you style a rugby shirt?
Tuck it into wide trousers with loafers, wear it with a pleated mini, and layer it under a tailored coat.
Are rugby shirts in style for women?
Yes. They are part of the current preppy revival, and knitted wool versions feel the most grown-up.
Read next: Alanui x Looney Tunes, Alanui Fall Winter 2026, Alanui size guide.
By Gemma Deeks, Coveti Fashion Editor. Updated 20 October 2026.
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