The Evolution of Golf Fashion: From Tradition to Modern Style
All Square 4min read •
16 Aug
Golf has long been celebrated not only as a sport of precision and strategy but also as a symbol of refinement and social status. Over the centuries, the fashion associated with golf has evolved dramatically, reflecting broader cultural shifts, technological advancements in fabrics, and changing ideas about comfort and performance.
Origins and Early Styles: Practicality in the Scottish Highlands
Golf originated in Scotland during the 15th century, and the earliest golfers wore everyday attire suitable for outdoor activity. Men typically donned woollen trousers, heavy jackets, and hats to combat the chilly Scottish climate. These outfits were practical rather than stylish, prioritising warmth and mobility over aesthetics.
Women’s participation in golf emerged later, around the late 19th century, and their attire was far more restrictive. Long skirts, corsets, and high-necked blouses dominated, reflecting the Victorian era’s modesty standards. The emphasis on modesty often limited movement, highlighting how early fashion was more about social norms than sporting efficiency.
The Turn of the 20th Century: The Birth of Distinct Golf Attire
By the early 1900s, golf fashion began to acquire a distinct identity. Men favoured knickerbockers, or plus-fours — trousers that extended four inches below the knee — paired with argyle socks, tweed jackets, and flat caps. These outfits were both functional and stylish, allowing golfers greater freedom of movement while maintaining a sense of elegance.
Women embraced split skirts, which resembled pants, allowing easier movement on the course. The rise of private golf clubs also meant that style became a symbol of social standing, making fashion an essential part of the game’s culture. Accessories such as leather gloves, caps, and golf shoes began to emerge as performance-enhancing elements that doubled as fashion statements.
Mid-20th Century: Style Meets Comfort and Performance
The post-war period brought dramatic changes to golf attire, balancing elegance with practicality. Materials like cotton blends and lightweight wool allowed for more comfortable and flexible clothing. Men’s fashion shifted toward short-sleeved polo shirts and tailored slacks or pleated shorts, emphasising both performance and a polished look. Women embraced knee-length skirts and blouses that allowed more freedom of movement, gradually moving away from restrictive corsets. Iconic brands such as Ping, Dunlop, Ralph Lauren, and Lacoste helped define this era, introducing clothing that blended performance features with a preppy, refined aesthetic. This period marked a turning point where golf fashion began to mirror mainstream trends while maintaining sport-specific functionality closely.
Late 20th Century to Modern Era: Innovation and High-Tech Style
By the late 20th century, golf fashion had evolved to prioritise both performance and visual appeal. Synthetic fabrics, moisture-wicking materials, and stretchable fibres transformed golf clothing into high-tech athletic gear. Today, golfers enjoy options like breathable polos, ergonomic golf shoes designed for stability, and stylish outerwear suitable for all weather conditions. Women’s golf attire also became more versatile, incorporating skirts, skorts, leggings, and fitted tops that balance elegance with comfort. Designers and brands increasingly introduced bold patterns and colours, allowing golfers to express individuality while adhering to club dress codes. The modern golfer can seamlessly combine style, comfort, and cutting-edge performance technology on the course.
Golf Fashion as a Cultural Statement: Tradition Meets Self-Expression
Throughout its history, golf fashion has reflected broader cultural trends, social norms, and technological advancements. From the tailored elegance of the 1920s to the vibrant, colourful ensembles of the 1980s and today’s sleek, high-performance designs, golf attire mirrors societal shifts while retaining its distinctive identity. Modern golfers use fashion not only for functionality but as a way to express personality and taste, balancing tradition with contemporary trends. What we wear on the course today honours the sport’s heritage while embracing innovation, proving that golf fashion is as dynamic and strategic as the game itself.
