Table of Contents
- The Formal Golfer
- The Traditionalist
- The Modern Golfer
- The Daring Dresser
- The Pro
- The Casual Golfer
- The Show Off
- The Newbie
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Golf and fashion have always gone hand in hand and you'll see plenty of golf-inspired outfits making their way down catwalks across the world. Dress codes have become more relaxed over the years, so you have endless options when deciding what to wear.
You can tell a lot about someone simply by looking at what they choose to wear to the golf course. A vintage piece could suggest that the sport has been played in the family for generations, while a brightly coloured shirt could be the mark of a daring personality.
But what does your golf attire say about you? In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common clothing worn by golfers and what it says about them. Perhaps you'll recognise yourself (and some of your golfing buddies) in these archetypes.
The Formal Golfer
The formal golfer adheres to the dress code and always arrives wearing a freshly ironed outfit without a crinkle in sight. They're likely to wear subdued colours and will swap their golf shoes for dress shoes when they have a drink at the country club after their game.
With their high-quality golf shirts and neat trousers, formal golfers could easily attend a high-end function in the very same attire.
So, what does this say about them? Formal golfers usually play by the rules, put a high value on their appearance, and prefer quality over quantity.
You wouldn't catch them in a hoodie or any other casual attire - they would always opt for a zip-up jumper or wool sweater instead.
Signature piece
A quarter zip cotton golf sweater, like the one found in our men's apricot fairway outfit, paired with performance golf trousers.
The Traditionalist
Similar to formal golfers, traditionalists will always adhere to the dress code and take care with planning their golf outfits. However, traditionalists are often a little older and typically come from a long line of golfers.
Some of the pieces they wear may be real vintage, but even their modern golf attire has an old-world feel to it. You can expect to see them in oversized wool coats and duckbill flat caps.
Traditional golfers take the sport seriously, appreciate golf's heritage, and like to play by the rules. They're always ready with interesting facts about golf and are typically well-connected within the community.
Signature piece
Anything in a checked print, like the cashmere golf sweater found in our men's aqua tee outfit, as it's one of the cornerstones of golf fashion.
The Modern Golfer
The modern golfer moves with the times. They are fully aware of the many benefits of breathable fabrics and other innovations in golf attire, using them to their advantage. They may even believe that the right clothing may make them a better golfer.
Modern golfers follow the trends and keep a close eye on what the pros are wearing. Their style is usually quite sporty and they typically favour functionality as well as sustainable materials when picking out new golf clothes.
Black is a popular colour for modern golfers, but they may also add pops of oranges, yellows, and even pinks - when they're in the mood.
Signature piece
Our men's apricot tee outfit with its lightweight performance jacket is a classic example of what is worn by modern golfers. Women golfers with a modern style would simply fall in love with our apricot green outfit.
The Daring Dresser
The daring dresser may not always adhere to the golf club dress code as they are more concerned with standing out from the crowd and pushing the boundaries. Not afraid to mix and match bold prints and bright colours, daring dressers usually have a strong sense of self.
These golfers can be a lot of fun to be around as they don't take life too seriously. They are often creative, extroverted, and confident people who know how to have a good time. However, they can sometimes place a bit too much value on outward appearances. They may also think that the rules don't apply to them, which could get them in trouble from time to time.
Nevertheless, if daring dressers make an effort to stick to golf dress codes, they could be setting trends for years to come.
Signature piece
Anything bright and bold, such as the pieces found in the ladies' hot pink fairway outfit and the men's aqua green outfit.
The Pro
One thing you need to know about pro golfers is that they are generally quite unassuming. Like modern golfers, they usually favour functionality over fashion. They have spent many hours on the golf course and they know what works for them and what doesn't.
Whether it's a bright sunny day or you're in for heavy showers, a pro can put together the perfect outfit based on the specific weather conditions. They are aware of the best golf brands out there and are fans of moisture-wicking fabrics and performance golf attire.
Signature piece
With its padded performance golf gilet, the men's apricot green outfit is perfect for pro golfers.
The Casual Golfer
The casual golfer is all about comfort; they would arrive at the golf course in their pyjamas if they could! Fashion doesn't play a significant role in their lives. In fact, they struggle to see what all the fuss is about - they would rather spend their money on a new set of clubs.
Casual golfers will usually arrive at the course in standard golf pants and a collared shirt. They abide by the dress code and they usually have favourite pieces that you'll see them wearing again and again.
Signature piece
The hooded mid-layer found in our men's hot pink green outfit is the ideal piece for the casual golfer.
The Show Off
These golfers usually have all the gear and no idea. Their wardrobes are bursting with golf gloves, spiked golf shoes, expensive golf shirts, and more. After their game, they will probably change into an entirely different outfit before entering the clubhouse.
Show-offs typically spend a significant amount of money on their golf attire, as they like to try out different brands and sport the latest trends. They will typically wear bright colours and items with large logos to stand out from the crowd at every chance they get.
Signature piece
Show-offs will love the hot pink golf sweater featured in our men's hot pink bunker outfit and in our ladies' apricot bunker outfit.
The Newbie
There is a first time for everything, and newbies may find it difficult to know what to wear to their first round of golf. It is clear that they may have borrowed items to play golf or that they have made the best of what they already had in their wardrobe.
But, how long does a newbie stay a newbie? Well, it depends on the person and how long it takes them to become comfortable on the course. Over time, they will begin adding items to their golfing wardrobe and learn more about the dress code so they will begin to fit in.
Signature piece
Definitely polo shirts and gilets, as these are the items they have seen other golfers wear in films and TV series.
FAQsCan golf clothing impact your performance?Yes. If you feel confident and comfortable, you should be able to play a better game than if you felt restricted and self-conscious. With that said, the right golf clothing and equipment can only help you so much. Your skills and experience are the two main factors that impact your overall performance. What are the best golf shoes to wear?While you could get away with wearing running shoes to play golf in, you should consider investing in a pair of specialised golf shoes. Metal-spiked shoes are designed to provide you with grip and stability on slippery grass. In colder conditions, you could opt for golf boots. What should I wear to play golf for the first time?It would be perfectly acceptable to wear any trousers or chinos paired with a collared shirt. If it's cold, you could pair the outfit with a zip-up jumper or sweater. Women golfers could wear a skirt or skort instead of trousers if they wanted to. Avoid t-shirts, denim, tank tops, short shorts, and leggings as these items don't typically align with golf course dress codes. |
Conclusion
Whatever colours, prints, and fabrics you find yourself drawn to, always make sure that you are warm and comfortable before you head to the golf course. Also always remember to check the dress code if you are playing at a new club as some clubs have stricter dress codes than others.
These days, you have plenty of options to choose from, so don't be afraid to show off your personal style and pick outfits that bring you joy. If you're struggling to find inspiration, have a look at what other golfers are wearing on your local course as well as on the PGA tour.
Whether you prefer to play in casual polo shirts or something a bit more formal, you'll find everything you're looking for here at Glen Muir. We offer a range of both men's and women's golf outfits that align with your personal style while still offering functionality.