#4: I Never Said the Coolest Rugby Jerseys Had to Be Worn on the Field
by Matthew Dehaty
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When we compiled our Top 5 Coolest Rugby Jerseys of All Time, we never specified they had to grace the pitch. Some jerseys transcend the sport, embedding themselves in streetwear and broader culture. A prime example is the Palace x Polo Ralph Lauren rugby shirt donned by Carmy in The Bear (S2, Ep6 “Fishes”).
Ever since The Bear dropped, Jeremy Allen White has been the talk of the town in men's fashion. His character Carmy Berzatto isn't just one of the most compelling characters on TV - he's also quietly become a style icon. Not in a loud, look-at-me way, but in a “this guy just gets it” way. Carmy's wardrobe is an intentional mix of classics: white tees, A.P.C. denim, a perfectly cut NN.07 wool jacket, Red Wing boots - all things with heritage, craftsmanship, and authenticity baked in.
So when costume designer Courtney Wheeler put him in the Navy blue Palace x Polo rugby, it wasn't random. It was a nod to Carmy's past - to a guy who once cared about style, who traveled and absorbed different influences, but never in a try-hard way. He's the kind of guy who, years ago, would've thought this was the best rugby shirt out there. And honestly? He wouldn't have been wrong.
Key highlights
In 2018, London-based skate brand Palace and American icon Polo Ralph Lauren unveiled a collaboration that seamlessly blended British streetwear with classic American prep. The collection launched with a new lookbook, shot against a backdrop of billboards teasing the unlikely partnership between a London skate label and the all-American heritage brand.
When the collection released in November 2018, the most popular items - including the Kickflip Polo Bear knit sweater and teddy bear - sold out in under two hours.
The patchwork rugby jersey from the collection isn't necessarily to everyone's taste, but the references to classic striped jersey identity land. The Navy blue version, with a crisp white collar and the iconic Polo player embroidered over “PALACE”, is the kind of piece that transcends trends. And seeing it on Carmy cements its place among the coolest rugby jerseys of all time.
Rugby jerseys have always been more than just sportswear. They're symbols of culture, identity, and style. And this one is one of the greatest. It's the same crossover appeal we trace back further in The Grail Rugby Jersey: The one that Hijacked Hip-Hop.
What's your pick for the best rugby jersey ever - on or off the field?