Le 31
Pointelle-Pattern Knit Johnny Collar Polo
This is a short-sleeve knitted polo shirt with a pointed Johnny collar, open placket, and no buttons. It features an openwork pointelle knit pattern that is semi-sheer, with ribbed cuffs, hem, and collar trim. Made from a lightweight cotton-blend, it is designed as a casual top suitable for warm weather.
- Material
- cotton-blend
- Gender
- unisex
- Style
- casual, smart-casual, classic
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Shirts & Tops
Color
Size
Specifications
Lightweight openwork knit polo with pointed Johnny collar and ribbed trim.
Lightweight cotton-blend openwork knit
- Material
- cotton-blend
- Style
- casual, smart-casual, classic
- Occasion
- everyday, casual, business-casual
- Gender
- unisex
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Shirts & Tops
Additional Attributes
- Pointelle pattern knit
- Open, pointed Johnny collar
- Finely ribbed trim
- Lightweight cotton-blend openwork knit
Product Insights
Le 31's Pointelle-Pattern Knit Johnny Collar Polo revives a 1950s-60s Italian leisurewear heritage with a buttonless V-neck that visually lengthens the neck, making the semi-sheer pointelle pattern the focal point. Designed for resort wear rather than business-casual, the open collar and knit maximize ventilation, though the openwork is vulnerable to snagging from accessories and requires hand washing and flat drying to retain shape. At CAD 89 (or CAD 59.95 sale), it undercuts similar pointelle polos like Lucky Brand's by ~37% while offering Canadian design provenance from Simons. True to size and structurally durable with proper care, it balances a rare collar pattern with practical tradeoffs in opacity and maintenance.
- Collar silhouette
Buttonless Johnny collar delivers an uninterrupted V-neck that visually lengthens the neck and makes the pointelle pattern the focal point.
Why this is supported
The Johnny collar's defining feature is a
A Johnny collar polo is a polo shirt with a collar but no buttons on the placket.
mekonggarment.com, which creates a
Relaxed V-Neck: Visually lengthens the neck and balances the upper body across different body types.
mekonggarment.com. This V-neck eliminates the visual break of a traditional polo placket, making the pointelle pattern the focal point. The
Soft Knit Construction: Often made from cotton jersey, linen blends, or lightweight wool to allow the collar to fall naturally.
mekonggarment.comof the collar ensures it drapes over the pointelle knit cohesively, and its flat profile lies smoothly under layers. The pointelle is constructed with a
transfer knit is used to create the design.
en.wikipedia.org, which prevents the openwork from unraveling. To maintain the collar's V shape,
reshaping the hem and cuffs while damp
world.taobao.comand
always fold and store to retain shape. Do not hang.
instagram.comare recommended. Together, these features create a modern, clean silhouette.
- Breathability
Open V placket improves airflow around the neck for hot-weather comfort.
Why this is supported
The open V placket of the Johnny collar improves airflow around the neck. As described,
The Johnny collar is a buttonless version that stays open to form a soft V-shape. Popularized in mid-century fashion, this minimalist design improves airflow
mekonggarment.com. This makes it functionally advantageous for hot weather, aligning with its sportswear origins.
- Style positioning
Italian collar heritage revived from 1950s leisurewear; rare on sub-$100 pointelle polos and best for resort wear.
Why this is supported
This Johnny collar is often described as
A Johnny collar, also called an Italian collar, is a flat, open collar with a V-shaped neckline.
gmtph.comand is
Known as the Italian collar, often seen in Mediterranean fashion.
gmtph.com. It was
Popularized in the 1950s and 60s, this style was a staple of mid-century leisurewear and European summer style.
mekonggarment.com. In contrast, a typical pointelle polo from another brand uses a
Spread ribbed collar
luckybrand.com, highlighting the rarity of the Johnny collar among sub-$100 pointelle polos. Additionally, according to fashion sources,
Classic and contrast collars are versatile for business-casual, while Johnny collars lean toward resort wear.
mekonggarment.com, confirming its ideal use for warm-weather settings.
- Sheerness
Pointelle knit is semi-sheer; an undershirt is recommended for full opacity, especially in lighter colors.
Why this is supported
The pointelle knit's transparency is noted in the product Q&A:
Yes, the openwork knit has a textured lattice pattern with small openings, so it is somewhat sheer. We recommend wearing an undershirt, especially in lighter colors like Off White, for full opacity.
Is the openwork knit sheer enough to require an undershirt, or is it opaque when worn?. This is particularly relevant at the neckline, where the open Johnny collar exposes more skin, making an undershirt more critical than with buttoned polos that have a fabric placket.
- Heritage
Johnny collar is a 1950s-60s Italian leisurewear style.
Why this is supported
The Johnny collar is also called an Italian collar —
A Johnny collar, also called an Italian collar, is a flat, open collar with a V-shaped neckline.
gmtph.com— and traces its lineage to 1950s-60s leisurewear:
Popularized in the 1950s and 60s, this style was a staple of mid-century leisurewear and European summer style.
mekonggarment.comThis backstory frames the collar as a deliberate style reference, not a default polo neckline.
- Resort wear
Johnny collar is categorized as resort wear, not business-casual.
Why this is supported
While classic and contrast collars are versatile for business-casual, the Johnny collar has a different positioning:
Classic and contrast collars are versatile for business-casual, while Johnny collars lean toward resort wear.
mekonggarment.comThis makes the polo a warm-weather statement piece for travel and summer looks, not office polish.
- Value
Johnny collar has a buttonless placket and a V-shaped neckline.
Why this is supported
The defining features of the Johnny collar are its buttonless placket and fixed V-neck.
A Johnny collar polo is a polo shirt with a collar but no buttons on the placket.
mekonggarment.comThis construction is well-suited to soft knits,
Soft Knit Construction: Often made from cotton jersey, linen blends, or lightweight wool to allow the collar to fall naturally.
mekonggarment.comand the V-shaped opening
Relaxed V-Neck: Visually lengthens the neck and balances the upper body across different body types.
mekonggarment.comcreates a flattering silhouette. Among sub-$100 pointelle polos, most use standard spread collars such as a
Spread ribbed collar
luckybrand.com, whereas Le 31's Johnny collar offers a softer, more modern neckline.
- Durability
The pointelle pattern is knit using stitch transfer, creating stable holes that won't unravel.
Why this is supported
Pointelle's openwork pattern is created when the knitting machine transfers stitches from one needle to an adjacent one, a programmed action that creates
a small, stable hole.
hdmerino.comThis integrated technique prevents fraying and maintains fabric integrity through repeated washes, making it suitable for garments that endure frequent laundering—as seen in its use in baby clothing where
. The pattern is designed to hold its shape with proper care (cold hand wash, flat dry).
- Collar compatibility
Johnny collar's soft knit avoids stressing the pointelle openwork.
Why this is supported
The Johnny collar features soft knit construction without buttons or stiff interlining, specifically designed to allow the collar to fall naturally—
Soft Knit Construction: Often made from cotton jersey, linen blends, or lightweight wool to allow the collar to fall naturally.
mekonggarment.com—so it doesn't place stress on the adjacent pointelle pattern, letting the eyelets drape without distortion.
- Snagging vulnerability
The pointelle pattern is vulnerable to snagging from accessories and sharp objects.
Why this is supported
Like many openwork knits, pointelle has a tradeoff:
it can snag on sharp objects or jewelry.
How durable is the pointelle pattern—is it prone to snagging or losing shape after a few wears?The stitch-transfer construction makes the pattern inherently stable, but the open holes create opportunities for snags, so care with accessories is advisable.
- Comfort
The pointelle knit is soft and breathable, like baby clothes.
Why this is supported
Pointelle's babywear origin demonstrates its softness and breathability.
Its soft, gentle texture and airy construction make it a popular choice for baby garments such as onesies, rompers, and sleep sets.
fabricatlas.comThis heritage confirms that the knit is gentle on skin and allows airflow.
- Snagging risk
The openwork pattern can snag on jewelry and rough surfaces.
Why this is supported
The pointelle pattern's openwork holes are structurally stable—
The openwork pattern is created when the knitting machine transfers stitches from one needle to an adjacent one. This programmed action creates a small, stable hole.
hdmerino.comHowever, the brand warns that
like all openwork knits, it can snag on sharp objects or jewelry.
How durable is the pointelle pattern—is it prone to snagging or losing shape after a few wears?The brand also recommends avoiding abrasive surfaces to maintain the pattern's appearance.
- Care
Hand wash cold with mild detergent, flat dry, and fold to retain shape.
Why this is supported
To preserve the pointelle pattern, experts recommend
hand-wash in cold water (<20°C) with a pH-neutral detergent
world.taobao.comand avoid wringing; instead, blot and roll in a dry towel because
Wringing applies torsional stress that permanently misaligns the rib columns.
world.taobao.comAfter washing, reshape the hem, cuffs, and collar while damp, then lay flat on a mesh rack. The hanging of wet knits is particularly damaging:
Hanging wet knits stretches the fabric under its own weight—especially problematic for openwork styles, which lack the density to resist gravitational pull.
world.taobao.comFor storage, fold neatly along the rib lines and use a steamer for refreshing the drape.
- Brand provenance
Le 31 is Simons' in-house label designed in Canada, adding exclusive domestic provenance to a competitively priced polo.
Why this is supported
Le 31 is an exclusive house brand for Simons, designed in Canada, as confirmed by the product description on stylight.ca:
Le 31 by Simons: an exclusive designed in Canada
stylight.ca- Competitor price
At CAD 59.95 sale, it undercuts Lucky Brand's comparable pointelle polo by ~37%.
Why this is supported
The product's sale price of CAD 59.95 makes it the lowest-priced knit polo in Le 31's own range, where another pointelle stripe model costs CAD 69.00 (
Le 31 Mens Pointelle stripe Polo Shirt Green $69.00
stylight.ca). It undercuts Lucky Brand's pointelle polo, which has a comparable value of USD 69.50 and frequently goes on sale at deep discounts such as
$29.99 Comp. Value $69.50
luckybrand.com. Additionally, it matches the price of American Eagle's plain-knit Johnny collar polo (AUD 59.95, ~CAD 55) but adds a more intricate pointelle openwork knit (
$59.95
americaneagle.com.au). Together, these comparisons establish a clear price advantage.
- Rarity
Johnny collar on pointelle is a rare combination that enhances breathability and creates a flattering V-neck.
Why this is supported
Most sub-$100 pointelle polos use a standard button-down collar, like Lucky Brand's
Spread ribbed collar
luckybrand.com. The Johnny collar's open, unstructured construction lets the pointelle knit remain the focus and
improves airflow
mekonggarment.comwhile its V-neck
The style also carries retro and resort-wear associations, reinforcing its distinct design proposition.
- Sizing
Runs true to size with classic North American cuts.
Why this is supported
Le 31 is consistently rated true to size across its men’s line, using classic North American cuts that avoid vanity sizing.
Le 31 is true to size. Simons' men's line — classic cuts, true to size
thisfits.appThis brand-level reputation directly supports that the polo’s size chart delivers the expected standard fit.
- Collar fit
Johnny collar combines a lengthening V-neck with breathable, natural drape on soft knits.
Why this is supported
The fixed V-shaped opening of the Johnny collar is designed to visually lengthen the neck and balance the upper body.
Relaxed V-Neck: Visually lengthens the neck and balances the upper body across different body types.
mekonggarment.comThe open collar also improves airflow, making it feel less constrictive in hot weather. The collar’s unstructured construction is specifically suited to soft knits, allowing it to drape naturally without stiff interlining.
Soft Knit Construction: Often made from cotton jersey, linen blends, or lightweight wool to allow the collar to fall naturally.
mekonggarment.comThese aspects together prevent common fit issues like button misalignment or awkward collar stand.
- Shape retention
Pointelle pattern holds shape with proper care, but can snag on sharp objects.
Why this is supported
To preserve the polo’s cut and avoid stretching, the knit must be reshaped while damp and folded for storage rather than hung.
Hanging wet knits stretches the fabric under its own weight—especially problematic for openwork styles, which lack the density to resist gravitational pull.
world.taobao.comThe care instructions recommend
reshaping the hem and cuffs while damp
world.taobao.comand folding to maintain shape.
Fold neatly to prevent snags; avoid hanging for long periods to maintain shape.
yardblox.comThe pointelle pattern itself is engineered with stable stitch-transfer constructions that create small, stable holes that do not unravel, so the pattern holds its shape with proper care.
The openwork pattern is created when the knitting machine transfers stitches from one needle to an adjacent one. This programmed action creates a small, stable hole.
hdmerino.comHowever, like all openwork knits, it can snag on sharp objects or jewelry, which could distort the knit and alter the intended drape.
The pointelle pattern is designed to hold its shape with proper care. However, like all openwork knits, it can snag on sharp objects or jewelry.
How durable is the pointelle pattern—is it prone to snagging or losing shape after a few wears?- Ventilation
Open collar and pointelle knit maximize airflow in heat or under a blazer.
Why this is supported
The open Johnny collar uses a buttonless placket that improves airflow, while the pointelle knit provides an airy construction.
improves airflow
mekonggarment.comand
airy construction
fabricatlas.com. This combination keeps the neck and torso ventilated. The design is effective when
layered under a blazer where a buttoned collar would trap heat
What a Johnny collar brings to the look — breathability_advantage, making it a breathable base layer. The style's origins in 1950s leisurewear and resort wear, as well as its athletic roots in golf and tennis, emphasize its breathability-first heritage. Additionally, the pointelle fabric has a
soft, gentle texture
fabricatlas.comthat enhances comfort during direct skin contact.
- Maintenance
Requires deliberate care (hand wash, flat dry, steam) but pointelle pattern is structurally durable.
Why this is supported
The pointelle knit requires careful maintenance:
hand-wash in cold water (<20°C) with a pH-neutral detergent, submerging the polo fully and pressing water through it without twisting.
world.taobao.comAfter washing,
and
always fold and store to retain shape. Do not hang.
instagram.comFor finishing,
steam iron for best fit
instagram.comusing low heat. Despite the openwork, the pattern is structurally stable:
small, stable hole
hdmerino.comthrough stitch transfer. However, like all openwork, it can snag on sharp objects, so care should be taken during active resort activities.
- Fit reputation
Le 31 is known for classic, true-to-size cuts.
Why this is supported
A sizing guide confirms the brand's consistent fit:
Le 31 is true to size. Simons' men's line — classic cuts, true to size
thisfits.app.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Black short-sleeve knitted polo with open Johnny-style collar and a pointelle (eyelet) knit pattern visible on the front; fitted over model torso with short sleeves ending in narrow turned cuffs.
- Overall silhouetteShort-sleeve polo worn by a model, straight hem at waist, sits over pants; body appears semi-fitted on torso.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.20 · w 0.76 · h 0.58 (high) - Collar and placketFlat, pointed Johnny-style collar with a V-shaped open placket and no visible buttons.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.05 · w 0.28 · h 0.14 (high) - Knit patternPointelle eyelet knit pattern across the front producing small open holes and a subtle textured floral/abstract motif where skin slightly shows through.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.18 · w 0.56 · h 0.40 (high) - Sleeve finishShort sleeves with narrow folded or ribbed cuffs that are slightly darker/denser than the body knit.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.30 · w 0.26 · h 0.20 (high); x 0.64 · y 0.30 · w 0.22 · h 0.20 (high) - Fabric opacityKnit is semi-sheer due to pointelle holes, allowing skin tone to be visible beneath the fabric in multiple areas.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.20 · w 0.44 · h 0.30 (high)
Other
Studio shot of a male model wearing the product; neutral light grey background, soft even lighting, model holding a black shiny bag in left hand and right hand in pocket; cropped from mid-thigh up.
- Model and stylingMale model wearing dark sunglasses, the shirt, dark pants, and holding a glossy black folded bag in left hand; right hand placed in pants pocket.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.00 · w 0.80 · h 1.00 (medium) - Background and lightingPlain light grey background with soft, even studio lighting and minimal shadowing to the left of the model.
- Prop: bagGlossy black leather-look folded tote or pouch held in the model's left hand at hip level; visible creasing and highlights on the surface.
1 region
x 0.05 · y 0.62 · w 0.30 · h 0.25 (high) - Image crop and framingImage framed from just above head to mid-thigh, centered on the model's torso and upper legs; slight leftward lean of model visible.
Colors
black· shirt body#0D0D0E- Overall silhouetteShort-sleeve polo worn by a model, straight hem at waist, sits over pants; body appears semi-fitted on torso.
- 02
Product
Black short-sleeve knitted polo with a Johnny-style open V neckline and an openwork pointelle knit pattern visible across the front and shoulder.
- Johnny collar and necklineFlat knit collar with a narrow, open V neckline (Johnny style) that does not show buttons; collar lies flat against the chest and transitions into the V opening.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.24 · w 0.62 · h 0.32 (high) - Pointelle openwork patternAll-over pointelle/openwork knit visible as small, regularly spaced holes and textured vertical ribs creating a semi-sheer patterned surface on the front and shoulder.
1 region
x 0.05 · y 0.42 · w 0.70 · h 0.45 (high) - Sleeve and shoulderShort sleeve visible on the left side with the same knit and pattern as the body; shoulder seam follows a natural set-in line and is visible near the model's shoulder.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.45 · w 0.30 · h 0.35 (high) - Fabric appearance and finishYarn shows a matte finish with fine textured ribbing between openwork areas; overall appearance is lightweight and slightly translucent where the pointelle holes are present.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.40 · w 0.60 · h 0.50 (high)
Other
Model portrait crop showing upper torso and head with sunglasses, plain light background, and soft studio lighting casting minimal shadows.
- Model and accessoryMale model cropped from mid-torso to above the head wearing dark rectangular sunglasses positioned on the face; sunglasses feature a visible logo on the temple.
1 region
x 0.52 · y 0.04 · w 0.38 · h 0.22 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light gray to white seamless background with soft, even studio lighting and subtle shadowing along the model's left side.
- Image crop and compositionThree-quarter frontal crop focusing on the right side of the model's chest and face; lower torso and arms are partially out of frame.
Colors
black· body and sleeves#0D0D0E- Johnny collar and necklineFlat knit collar with a narrow, open V neckline (Johnny style) that does not show buttons; collar lies flat against the chest and transitions into the V opening.
- 03
Product
Back view of a short-sleeve knit polo shown on a model; black pointelle (openwork) knit with a flat Johnny-style collar, short sleeves with ribbed cuffs, and a ribbed hem. The knit fabric is semi-sheer with visible openwork patterns across the back.
- Overall viewBack of a short-sleeve knit polo worn by a model, shown from shoulders to just below the waist; garment covers upper back and part of the torso.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.06 · w 0.76 · h 0.58 (high) - CollarFlat, knitted Johnny-style collar in the same black yarn, lies flat against the back of the neck with a smooth, denser knit than the body.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.06 · w 0.44 · h 0.07 (high) - Knit texturePointelle openwork knit with repeating small holes and decorative motifs across the back, producing a semi-sheer appearance where skin and underlying light are slightly visible through the fabric.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.14 · w 0.64 · h 0.38 (high) - Sleeve cuffsShort sleeves end in a denser, ribbed cuff band in matching black that contrasts subtly with the openwork body.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.68 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (high) - HemLower hem finished with a denser ribbed band in black that sits at the model's waistline.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.58 · w 0.60 · h 0.10 (high) - Sheerness detailAreas of the back show visible skin tone through the open knit, especially near the upper back and shoulder blades, indicating a lightweight, airy knit.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.12 · w 0.40 · h 0.22 (high) - Color uniformityGarment appears uniformly black across collar, body, cuffs, and hem without visible contrasting trims.
Other
Studio image showing a model from the rear against a plain light gray/white background; model wearing sunglasses and black shorts, standing with one hand in pocket. Even studio lighting with soft shadow on the floor to the right.
- Shot compositionRear three-quarter crop showing model from head to mid-thigh centered in frame with negative space at right.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.00 · w 0.84 · h 1.00 (medium) - Model poseModel stands with left hand relaxed near side and right hand in back pocket, head turned slightly to the right.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.02 · w 0.80 · h 0.96 (high) - Accessories visibleModel wears black rectangular sunglasses visible in profile at the upper right of the image.
1 region
x 0.64 · y 0.02 · w 0.18 · h 0.10 (high) - BackgroundPlain light gray to white seamless background with minimal texture.
- Clothing not part of productBlack shorts worn by the model are visible below the polo; they show buttoned rear pockets but are not described as packaging.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.66 · w 0.64 · h 0.32 (high)
Colors
black· body, collar, cuffs and hem#0E0D0E- Overall viewBack of a short-sleeve knit polo worn by a model, shown from shoulders to just below the waist; garment covers upper back and part of the torso.