Michael Bastian x Uniqlo 2013 Summer Polo Collection

Originating as the tennis shirt from the great mind of René Lacoste, the now golf or polo shirt is an archetypal piece of sportswear that remains a staple in every man’s wardrobe summer after summer. For those looking to beef up their meek polo game this season, fast-fashion retailer Uniqlo enlists menswear comrade Michael Bastian to release a collection of collared short-sleeves that will last anyone weeks. Chalked full with stripes, prints, breast pockets, button-downs, saturated colors and much more, the eclectic range aligns with Bastian’s philosophy of less is more. The designer ensures, “I designed this project with myself in mind, like I design everything I do. I really personalize it and always ask myself ‘Would I wear that? Do I want that? Is this something I’ve been looking for for a while?’ It really is a personal process, but I’m a man designing menswear, so it’s as good a place to start as any.” The collaborative range will hit Uniqlo stores on May 20.