A cable-knit polo combines well with calm, smooth trousers. This keeps the structure of the knit visible. To the office you wear it with pleated trousers, at the weekend with high-waist jeans, and for a lunch or dinner with a knee-length skirt. Because the cable stitch already has a lot of texture, you can keep the rest of the outfit simple. Below you will find five looks and tips to keep the knit beautiful.
What makes a cable stitch special?
In a cable stitch, stitches are crossed over each other while knitting. This creates vertical strands that look like twisted ropes. The pattern is common in classic knitwear. A cable stitch gives the garment visible relief, even in a plain colour.
A polo with a cable stitch combines that warm character with a collar. That is why a cable polo works both at the weekend and at the office.
The Liorah as a starting point
The Liorah cable-knit polo in navy has gold-coloured buttons that give a subtle, classic accent. The yarn is a blend of viscose and polyamide, which lets the knit drape softly and feel soft on the skin. You can read more about that fibre on our page about viscose. Navy is also a colour that goes with almost everything, from cream and beige to grey and black.
Look 1: to the office with beige trousers
Navy and beige make a calm, classic combination. Wear the polo with the Philippa ultra high-waist pleated trousers in beige and tuck the polo loosely into the waistband. The high waist and the pleats give the silhouette length, while the knit gives the top warmth. Brown loafers and a simple leather bag finish it. This gives you a polished office look without a blouse.
Look 2: tonal grey for a calm workday
If you want to keep it understated, wear the polo with the Florence flared ankle-length trousers in grey. Navy and grey together look cool and businesslike, and the wide, ankle-length leg gives a modern line. This is also the combination in the photo at the top. Choose flat shoes or ankle boots with them, so the ankle stays just visible.
Look 3: at the weekend with jeans
A cable-knit polo also works easily with jeans. The Adelaide high-waist contour-fit jeans in blue go well with the navy polo, and the structure of the knit makes a nice contrast with the smooth denim. Leave the top button open and wear leather sneakers with it. For a fresh day, a long coat goes over it.
Look 4: with a skirt for lunch
For a lunch or an afternoon in the city, wear the polo with the Rosa knee-length skirt in black. Tuck the polo in, so the waist becomes visible. Navy and black together used to be seen as a rule to avoid, but in knitwear it works in a refined way. With black tights and ankle boots you are ready for colder days.
Look 5: in layers
Because the polo is not too thick, you can also wear it in layers. Put a long coat or a tailored jacket over it, or wear it under a sleeveless cardigan. Make sure the collar stays visible, because it gives the look its polished character.
Colours that go with navy
Navy is easy to combine and less harsh than black. Besides the combinations above, navy works well with white for a fresh, almost nautical look, with camel for a warm autumn feel and with burgundy if you want a deep accent. Avoid very bright colours: they take the calm out of the knit and make the gold-coloured buttons less visible.
What to combine it with and what not
| Works well | Better to avoid |
|---|---|
| Smooth trousers and jeans | Trousers with a lot of texture, such as coarse corduroy |
| Plain skirts in black, navy or cream | Busy prints that compete with the knit |
| Fine gold jewellery that matches the buttons | Large statement necklaces over the knit |
| Leather loafers, ankle boots, leather sneakers | Sporty sneakers with a lot of colour |
| A long coat or cropped jacket | A thick knitted sweater over it |
Fit: how should it sit?
A cable-knit polo may sit slightly looser than a smooth-knit polo, because the knit itself already gives volume. The shoulder seam should fall on your shoulder and the sleeves may reach just over your wrist bone. If you wear it tucked in, choose a length that reaches your hip, so it does not pull out of the waistband when you move.
Jewellery and accessories
Let the gold-coloured buttons be your starting point. Small gold earrings, a fine bracelet or a watch with a gold case go well with them. Silver can work too, but it calls for a conscious choice. A scarf in cream or camel gives a warm layer on cold days that suits navy.
How to keep the knit beautiful
- Fold the polo. Hanging can stretch the knit at the shoulders.
- Wash on a delicate programme. Use cold or lukewarm water, a mild detergent and a wash bag to limit friction.
- Dry it flat. This keeps the cable pattern in shape.
- Air it in between. After a day of wearing, a night of airing is often enough.
View all polos for women and our knitwear, or discover complete work looks in the Office for Women collection.
Shop the look
Liorah: cable-knit polo, navy
Philippa: ultra high-waist pleated trousers, beige
Florence: flared ankle-length trousers, grey
Adelaide: high-waist contour-fit jeans, blue
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Frequently asked questions
What do you combine a cable-knit polo with?
With smooth fabrics that let the knit speak: pleated trousers, high-waist jeans or a plain skirt. Keep jewellery and colours calm.
Can you wear a cable-knit polo to the office?
Yes. With smart trousers and loafers, a cable-knit polo looks polished enough for most offices, especially in navy or another calm colour.
Should you tuck in a knitted polo?
You do not have to, but with trousers or a skirt with a high waist, tucking in gives a better line. With jeans you can also wear it loose.
How do you wash a cable-knit polo?
On a delicate programme with cold or lukewarm water, in a wash bag, and then dry it flat. Always check the label first.
