Classic clothing

Pre-owned classic clothing from Ralph Lauren, Lacoste and Barbour, from button-down shirts and polo shirts to cable knits and waxed cotton jackets. Where the classic style comes from is explained in the guide to the preppy style.

Shirts and polo shirts

The button-down shirt in oxford cloth is a foundation of classic clothing, with collar points that are buttoned to the front of the shirt. Ralph Lauren makes it with the polo player embroidered on the chest, alongside polo shirts in cotton piqué. Lacoste polo shirts have the crocodile logo on the chest.

Knitwear

Classic knitwear comes in a few set shapes: the crewneck, the V-neck, the cable knit and the quarter-zip. Ralph Lauren makes all four, mostly in cotton or wool, and Lacoste makes crewnecks, V-necks and cardigans with the crocodile logo.

Waxed cotton jackets

Barbour jackets are made from waxed cotton, which keeps out wind and rain, and many have a corduroy collar and a tartan lining. The Bedale is a shorter jacket first made for riding, and the Beaufort is longer, with a large game pocket at the back. Waxed cotton can be rewaxed when the finish wears thin.

Size and measurements

Cuts differ from brand to brand, so the size on the label is a rough guide. Each item is measured at four points: across the chest from armpit to armpit, the length of the body, across the shoulders and the length of the sleeve.

Classic clothing can be browsed for men and women, and by brand on the pages for Ralph Lauren, Lacoste and Barbour. Ralph Lauren also has pages for shirts, polo shirts and jumpers, and the Ralph Lauren guide covers the brand in more detail.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a button-down and a button-up shirt?

A button-down shirt has collar points that are buttoned to the front of the shirt. A button-up shirt is any shirt that closes with buttons down the front, with or without a button-down collar.

How should a waxed cotton jacket be cleaned?

Waxed cotton is not machine washed or dry cleaned, because both remove the wax. It is wiped clean with a sponge and cold water, and rewaxed when the finish wears thin. Cleaning and re-waxing are explained step by step in how to care for waxed cotton.

How do the prices compare with retail?

Prices are set per item, up to 80% below the original retail price.