A woven modal polo falls differently from a knitted polo because the fabric construction and fibre are different. Woven fabric has a smoother surface and a more controlled drape. Knitted polos usually have more structure and natural stretch. Modal feels soft and can give the fabric a slight sheen. That puts the look somewhere between a classic polo and a shirt. Below you can read how that works and how to combine it.
What is modal?
Modal is a cellulose fibre that is often made from wood pulp. Modal belongs to the same group of cellulose fibres as viscose and lyocell. The precise properties depend on fibre, yarn and fabric construction. Modal generally feels soft and smooth and can drape softly.
You can find more background on our page about modal.
Woven or knitted: the difference
An important difference between fabrics is whether they are woven or knitted. With weaving, two sets of threads cross each other at right angles, as in a shirt. With knitting, loops are hooked into each other, as in a sweater or a knitted polo. That difference decides how a garment falls and feels.
| Property | Woven polo | Knitted polo |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Smooth, with a slight sheen | Structure, such as piqué, rib or jersey |
| Drape | Flowing, follows the body | More volume, stands slightly away from the body |
| Stretch | Limited, unless it contains elastane | Naturally stretchy |
| Look | Sleek and polished, close to a shirt | Relaxed, sportier or rather warm |
| Wear with | Office, dinner, summer evenings | Weekend, between seasons, under a cardigan |
The Montgomery: modal, woven and with stretch
The Montgomery is a polo made of 49.5% modal, 43.8% polyester and 6.7% elastane. The modal is worked into a woven fabric with stretch and a supple drape. The polyester gives sturdiness, the elastane freedom of movement. The polo has a slim fit and Issu & Lloyd branding on the chest.
Important: because of the slim fit and the woven fabric, we advise taking one size larger than usual with the Montgomery.
It comes in three colours:
- Montgomery in navy: the most versatile, from office to dinner.
- Montgomery in brown: warm and rich, lovely with cream and beige.
- Montgomery in blue: fresh and summery, with white or khaki.
Why a woven polo looks different
A woven fabric usually has a smoother and more stable surface than a knit. The slight sheen of modal strengthens that effect. The combination of collar and smooth fabric makes the polo suitable for slightly dressier moments.
Four ways to wear it
- At the office. Navy Montgomery, tucked into a black trouser with elastic waistband such as the Vincent, with loafers. Polished and simple, without a tie or blazer.
- On a summer evening. Brown Montgomery with the Harrison trouser in beige, a tapered trouser with a single pleat. The warm shades combine well with beige.
- At the weekend. Blue Montgomery worn loose over a chino or jeans, with white sneakers.
- At a dinner. Navy or brown with a cream trouser such as the Winston, tucked in, with suede loafers.
Tucked in or loose?
Thanks to the supple drape, a woven polo can be worn tucked in well. If you wear it loose, pay attention to the length: it should fall just over the waistband. If you wear it loose, above all look for a length that suits your trouser and proportions.
Caring for modal
- Wash at a low temperature and inside out, so the fabric and the branding stay beautiful.
- Not in the dryer. Hang the polo on a hanger to dry; the woven fabric then smooths out by itself.
- Ironing is rarely needed. At most at a low temperature on the inside, or with a steamer.
- Always read the label for the instructions for the specific garment.
On our care instructions page you will find more explanation per material.
Why the polyester and elastane are in there
Modal provides the softness and the supple drape. The polyester gives the fabric extra sturdiness and helps keep it smooth, the elastane makes sure you can move your arms and shoulders freely, even in a slim fit. That way the different fibres combine softness, sturdiness and room to move.
Woven or knitted: which do you choose?
Choose a woven modal polo if you want a sleek, polished line that comes close to a shirt, for the office, dinners and warm days. Choose a knitted polo if you are looking for more structure and a relaxed look, or if you want to wear it under a cardigan or blazer between seasons. Which one you choose depends mostly on season and occasion.
Choosing a colour for a woven polo
A slight sheen can make deep colours extra visible. Navy looks business-like, brown warmer and blue lighter. Preferably combine dark polos with lighter trousers in cream, beige or khaki, and light polos with navy or black. That way there is a clear contrast between top and bottom.
Take a look at all polos for men to see the woven and knitted versions side by side.
Shop the look
Montgomery: softly draping modal polo, navy
Montgomery: softly draping modal polo, brown
Montgomery: softly draping modal polo, blue
Vincent: slim-fit mid-rise trouser, black
Harrison: tapered trouser with pleats, beige
Winston: light high-waist trouser, cream
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between modal and viscose?
Both are cellulose fibres. Modal is spun so that the fibre is finer and stronger, which makes the fabric feel softer and keep its shape better.
Does a modal polo run small?
The Montgomery has a slim fit and a woven fabric. That is why we advise taking one size larger than usual.
Can you wear a woven polo to the office?
Yes. Thanks to the smooth fabric and supple drape it looks polished, especially tucked into a trouser with loafers.
