Golf fashion has come a long way, evolving from formal, restrictive outfits to stylish, functional gear that looks great both on and off the course. Let’s take a look at how golf fashion changed over the decades!
1920s: The Classic Knicker Look
In the early days of golf, the focus was on looking polished and refined, but the outfits weren’t exactly designed for comfort. Golfers wore knickerbockers, tweed jackets, and wool socks. While it looked classy, there wasn’t much room for movement.
- Bobby Jones was the epitome of early golf fashion, sporting suspenders and high-waisted trousers.
- The outfits were all about elegance, with no regard for flexibility or breathability.
- It was more about being proper than being comfortable on the course.
1980s: Bold, Bright, and Colourful
The 1980s brought a major shift in golf fashion, introducing bold colours and fun prints. Golfers swapped out the stiff outfits for more expressive, lively looks, making the sport feel less formal and more accessible.
- Polos and high-waisted shorts became the go-to, often in bright neon colours.
- Arnold Palmer became known for his colourful polos and golf style that made a statement.
- The 80s were all about fun, and golf fashion reflected that with oversized visors, vibrant hues, and a more relaxed attitude toward the game.
1990s: Polo Shirts & Casual Vibes
By the 1990s, golf fashion started to focus more on comfort without losing style. The classic polo shirt became the uniform of choice for both men and women, but with a more modern, slim fit. The rise of stars like Tiger Woods helped make these more athletic styles popular.
- The polo shirt became sleeker, with moisture-wicking fabrics that allowed more movement.
- Tiger Woods made the red Sunday polo iconic, blending performance with style.
- Annika Sörenstam brought a touch of sophistication, introducing fitted tops and performance fabrics designed for feminine golfers.
2000s: Athleisure Takes Over
In the 2000s, the focus shifted even more toward comfort and performance, with athleisure-inspired designs hitting the golf course. This was the time when breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and even sneaker-style golf shoes became mainstream.
- Golf polos were more fitted and came in a wider range of colours and styles.
- Phil Mickelson embraced a bolder, modern look, with statement colours and fitted designs.
- Golf skirts became more form-fitting, and pants were designed to allow greater flexibility while still looking stylish.
Now: Fashion Meets Function
Today, golf fashion is all about combining stylish looks with high-performance functionality. Golfers now wear gear that allows them to perform their best while looking fantastic on the course. Whether it’s tailored polos or sporty joggers, golfers have more options than ever before.
- Men’s golf fashion now includes sleek polos, comfy midlayers, and even streetwear-inspired sneakers.
- Women have more options than ever before—tailored pants, skirts, stylish jackets, and everything in between.
- The focus is now on versatility: stylish enough for the course, but great for casual wear off it too.
Golf fashion has evolved from stiff, formal wear to something that blends style, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re looking for a retro vibe or rocking the latest trends, golf fashion is all about expressing yourself while playing the game you love.