This Unexpected Top Is Dominating the Internet—and I'm 100% Into It

While we may still be in the throes of winter, I for one can’t wait to swap out some of my bulky, chunky sweaters for something a little lighter as we (excitedly!) approach spring. So what will be replacing the thick cable-knits in my wardrobe this upcoming season? As market editor, I always have my eyes peeled on the coolest new pieces that are percolating at our favorite stores—and one unexpected trend that I simply can’t wait to get my limbs into is a polo-style knit top. (And I’m not talking the type of polo shirts your dad might wear to golf.) In essence, these are simply sweaters with collars—made up of lightweight (soft ribbed) knits and sometimes featuring buttons.

The top style is a micro trend we spotted on the spring 2020 runways—featured in abundance at Prada, in particular—where fitted, sheer collared ribbed knit tops were buttoned up to the neck and tucked into artsy pencil skirts—exuding a preppy-meets-provocative vibe.

Equal parts prim, preppy, and retro, polo knit tops are incredibly versatile—easy to wear with skirts, jeans, and tailored trousers alike. Below, I’m sharing some of the chicest I’ve seen—currently dominating at our favorite stores.

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Prada, Victor Virgile/Getty Images)

At Prada, sheer, ribbed, knit polo tops were worn with printed midi skirts and mules—which offset the prim nature of the top.

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(Image credit: Prada, Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)

The Prada runways proved that navy blue and black is a combo we should be trying this spring. Pair your knit polo sweater with a leather skirt.

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(Image credit: Missoni, Victor Virgile/Getty Images)

At Missoni, knit collared sweaters with deep-V necks and metallic flecks exuded a cool retro vibe.

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(Image credit: Kate Spade/Imaxtree)

Kate Spade's S/S 20 runway made us want to run out and buy pretty pastel polos immediately.

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: @monikh)

Collared knit tops worn with high-waisted jeans are a foolproof winter-to-spring option.

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Layer a tank or tee underneath your sweater while the temps are still cool.

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(Image credit: @joiedejude)

Hit two trends in one and wear the silhouette in this season's of-the-moment pistachio hue.

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(Image credit: @claire_most)

A pop of bold color will add a springtime pep in your sartorial step.

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Up next, the affordable seven-piece spring 2020 capsule wardrobe.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.