Brooks Brothers vs Polo Ralph Lauren: which button-up wins?
Both land in the mid tier — the Brooks Brothers Original Polo Button-Down (OCBD) at $98, the Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Oxford Shirt at $98. Here's how they stack up, head to head.
| Brooks Brothers | Polo Ralph Lauren | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $98 | $98 |
| Material | Substantial cotton oxford cloth, mid-heavy weight. | Soft cotton oxford, mid-weight. |
| Fit | Traditional full fit (slimmer cuts available), true to size; size down if you want trim. | Multiple fits (classic/slim/custom), true to size; classic runs full. |
| Quality | Heritage benchmark — substantial oxford, the signature soft collar roll, durable construction. | Solid — soft oxford, relaxed collar roll, durable; mid-weight rather than the heaviest cloth. |
| Best for | The classic OCBD look, smart-casual and office wear, and collar-roll enthusiasts. | The Ivy-style OCBD look, smart-casual wear, and anyone who wants the widest colour range. |
| Care | Cold wash and hang or press; the oxford softens and the collar develops its roll with wear. | Cold wash and hang or press; the soft oxford develops a relaxed collar roll with wear. |
Which should you buy?
They sit in the same tier and are priced identically, so it comes down to what you want out of a button-up. Lean Brooks Brothers for the classic ocbd look, smart-casual and office wear, and collar-roll enthusiasts; pick Polo Ralph Lauren for the ivy-style ocbd look, smart-casual wear, and anyone who wants the widest colour range.
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