Fashion Gloves - The Evolution of Golf Clothes
The Evolution of Golf Clothes
Whether you’re a golf pro or a beginner, you’re likely familiar with how golfers typically dress. Maybe you’ve seen groups of students play “pub golf” or perhaps you’ve watched a few matches on TV.
Whatever the case, you probably have an idea of what golf fashion looks like. From the polo shirts to above-the-knee shorts to the “driver hat” (flat cap), golf clothing has a distinct look that’s unmistakable from other fashion.
Golfing has quite a rich history when it comes to apparel. From the winter-friendly attire to brave the elements in Scotland to today’s modern golf clothes, let’s dive into the history of golf fashion over the years. Where did it all start?
- The first golf clothing: The first game of golf took place during the 15th century in Scotland. The climate in Scotland is often cool, rainy, and windy. So, players wore thick, heavy fabrics like tweed and plaid. To protect themselves from the wind blowing off the water at courses like St. Andrews, golfers sported knickerbockers (knickers), which are short pants that end right below the knee. Players paired these knickerbockers with flat caps. Elements of this style are still present today.
- The early 1900s: A 1918 advertisement in Vanity Fair proved to be a pivotal moment in golf fashion. This is when the single-breasted jacket, waistcoat, long socks, and golf cap became popular. Back then, this more formal style of dress represented what it meant to be a well-dressed golfer.
- The 1920s: The booming American economy resulted in the glamour of the Roaring Twenties. This elevated golf to an even more formal look. Single-breasted jackets, neckties, and long stockings were popular.
- The 1930s and 40s: In the 30s and 40s, golf fashion took a more casual turn. Golfers began to move away from knickerbockers and embraced long flannel trousers. The shirt and tie also became less common. The 1933 U.S. Open took place during a heatwave, which influenced players to wear more casual, lightweight clothing. This style began to stick, and has strongly influenced what golfers wear today.
- Modern-day golf attire: Today, golfers tend to wear knit, collared golf shirts or vests with chinos or another casual trouser that’s lightweight and roomy. Polo shirts, two-tone golf shoes, visors, and sun hats are also popular.
Golf clothing today blends various styles that have accumulated over the years. And thanks to modern technology, golf clothes are a lot more comfortable to wear and move around in. Clothes now enable mobility, ventilation, and practicality to help players perform their best and stay cool on the course.
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