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The Six Nations is as much about tradition, rivalry and atmosphere as it is about rugby. Whether you’re heading to the stadium, popping into your local pub or hosting friends at home, knowing what to wear for the Six Nations can make all the difference. You want to look smart, feel comfortable and still be ready for a full day of tackles and tries.
From smart-casual shirts and cotton polos to versatile chinos and finishing accessories, here’s your complete guide to dressing well throughout the Six Nations, whatever your matchday plans.
When Is the Six Nations and Who’s Playing?
The Six Nations Championship kicks off on Thursday 5th February, bringing together Europe’s finest rugby nations:
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England
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Ireland
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Scotland
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Wales
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France
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Italy
The tournament runs across February and March, with each team playing once a week, creating a packed calendar of must-watch fixtures and plenty of opportunities to dress the part.
Where to Watch the Six Nations
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UK: Live coverage across BBC and ITV
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Ireland: Broadcast on RTÉ and Virgin Media
Whether you’re watching live in the stadium or soaking up the atmosphere elsewhere, your outfit should strike a balance between smart and relaxed.
Dressing for the Six Nations
Rugby days often mean long hours, unpredictable weather and plenty of movement, so comfort is essential. But that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. The sweet spot is smart-casual dressing: smart enough for the pub or hospitality lounge, relaxed enough for cheering from kickoff to final whistle.
What to Wear to the Six Nations Stadium
Attending a Six Nations match in person calls for layers, versatility and fabrics that work hard.Smart-Casual Shirts
A well-cut cotton shirt is a matchday staple. Opt for:
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Brushed cotton shirts for warmth on colder days
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Oxford or twill shirts for a sharper look
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Neutral colours that layer easily under knitwear or coats
A classic white or pale blue shirt is ideal if you want to subtly nod to your team’s colours without going full replica kit.
Polo Shirts & Knitted Polos
For a slightly more relaxed approach, polo shirts — especially long-sleeve or knitted styles — are perfect. They offer:
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A smarter alternative to casual tops
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Breathable comfort for packed stands
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Easy layering under jackets or coats
Knitted polos in particular add texture and warmth, making them ideal for winter fixtures.
Chinos
Chinos strike the right balance between smart and relaxed. They’re comfortable enough for standing and walking, yet polished enough for post-match drinks. Stick to classic shades like navy, stone or khaki for maximum versatility.
Finish with a quality leather belt to pull the look together — it’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
What to Wear to the Pub for the Six Nations
Watching the Six Nations at the pub calls for easy, wearable style — something that looks good whether you’re standing at the bar or settling in for a full afternoon of rugby.
Go-To Outfit Formula:
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Smart-casual shirt or polo shirt
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Chinos for comfort and flexibility
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Knitted polo or lightweight jumper if it’s cold
This is where breathable cotton fabrics really come into their own, keeping you comfortable even in lively, crowded pubs.
What to Wear When Watching the Six Nations at Home
Hosting or watching from the sofa doesn’t mean giving up on style altogether. Think refined comfort.
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A soft cotton polo or knitted polo
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Relaxed chinos or cotton lounge pants
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Layers you can add or remove easily
This is also the perfect opportunity to throw on a cosy dressing gown.
Wearing Your Team’s Colours (Without Overdoing It)
Supporting your nation doesn’t have to mean wearing a full kit. Subtle colour cues can look far more refined:
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England: Casual white shirts, navy chinos
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Scotland: Blue polos or checked shirts
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Ireland: Green polos or earthy chinos
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Wales: Rich reds layered under knitwear
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France: Blue shirts with neutral tailoring
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Italy: Blue tones paired with classic neutrals
This approach keeps your outfit stylish while still showing allegiance.
Why Smart-Casual Works Best for the Six Nations
The Six Nations is a social occasion as much as a sporting one. Smart-casual clothing ensures you’re:
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Comfortable for long matchdays
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Appropriately dressed for pubs, hospitality or dinners
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Ready for unpredictable winter weather
High-quality cotton shirts, polo shirts and knitted polos offer breathability, warmth and polish, making them ideal for rugby season dressing.
Previous Six Nations Winners & Tradition
The Six Nations is steeped in history, with England, Wales and France among the most successful teams. Ireland’s recent dominance and France’s powerful performances have only heightened the competition, making each fixture an event worth dressing up for.
FAQs
What should I wear to a Six Nations rugby match?
Opt for a smart-casual outfit: a cotton shirt or polo shirt, chinos and layered knitwear. Choose warm yet breathable fabrics suitable for winter conditions.
Can I wear a polo shirt to the Six Nations?
Absolutely. Polo shirts, especially long-sleeve or knitted styles, are ideal for the Six Nations, offering comfort, warmth and a stylish look.
What trousers are best for the Six Nations?
Chinos are a great choice. They’re comfortable for standing and walking, smarter than jeans and versatile enough for pubs or post-match plans.
How can I support my team without wearing a rugby shirt?
Choose clothing in your team’s colours, such as a white shirt for England or a blue polo for France, and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.
