2019 Golf Fashion Trends

Country clubs sell a new image these days. In an effort to capture millennials and young families, clubs around the world have begun to evolve from their antiquated, stuffy traditions into more relaxed, casual environments. This evolution has had a noticeable impact on all facets of country club life. From craft cocktails and casual dining to themed dances and Easter egg hunts, the country club aesthetic has become dependent on more than just the traditional country club gentleman.

As traditional values and culture evolve in the country club setting, fashion has followed suit. Starched cottons and generous fits have made way for trim cut performance fabrics and versatile designs. These, and other prominent fashion trends, are leading the way in the 2019 golf industry.

VERSATILITY

On average, Americans between the ages of 25–54 work much longer hours than any other age demographic. As a result, they have much less time to enjoy the amenities and services country clubs have to offer. If a millennial, burdened with loan debt and no free time, still decides that country club life is right for them they will most likely not waste time changing outfits from work to the gym to the club. Cue the evolution of versatile performance golf attire. No longer is it necessary to plan multiple outfits for the day. Instead, just throw on a Nike Golf polo and be ready for the course, gym, work or street. These crossover lines don’t just feature your traditional golf attire either; hoodies, joggers, t-shirts, pull-on shirts and spikeless golf sneakers are all at the center of these collections as well.

PATTERNS & PRINTS

Paisley is no longer reserved only for your grandmother’s curtains. In the recent years, prints have taken the golf industry by storm. Last year, big and bold botanicals reigned supreme. This year it is all about intricate microprints. There is no better way for a golfer to show that they know a little something about fashion but don’t take themselves too seriously. Brands such as FootJoy, Peter Millar and Fairway & Greene have all found ways to work prints into their collections.

FIT

The way apparel fits continues to evolve in golf fashion as well. Younger generations tend to be influenced by more European styles, which favor trimmer fits and shorter sleeves. Brands such as Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines and Hugo Boss are popular amongst the younger crowd that value style as well as performance. The traditional American golfer still prefers more generous fitting attire common in brands such as Donald Ross, FootJoy and Peter Millar. Multiple options for style and fit allows golfers of all shapes and sizes to find something that complements them.

THROWBACK

Remember when color-blocking was fly, Biggie was rapping, high-waisted mom jeans roamed the streets and the Olsen twins were slaying with denim overalls. That’s right, the 90s are making a comeback! It was a simpler time, but it’s back and influencing fashion trends once more. And the golf industry has not been spared this influence, as brands such as Nike and Travis Mathew feature color-blocked pieces with regularity. Along with color-blocking, cottons have made their way back into many lines. Lisle and pique cotton designs provide a more versatile look and performance than traditional cotton blends. The 90s influence in apparel is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, so here’s your chance to break out the neon fanny pack and get ahead of the trend.

So, with all of these varying trends, how do you choose what to wear? The answer is, simply, whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. However, there are still some basic rules to follow:

• Patterns on top of patterns is a no-go. Wearing an argyle sweater with plaid pants will make you look like an optical illusion.

• Mixing styles and fits can have awkward results. Baggy pants or shorts with a trim fit polo will have you resembling a pear.

• Black shoes and a brown belt is an absolute never. You can get away with not having exactly the same color shoes and belt today, but the closer the better.

• White belts are on their way out. Owning a couple nice leather belts goes a long way. Woven belts are another less expensive option.

• No cargo shorts unless you want to look like a child. The standard 4-pocket Bermuda short has plenty of carrying capacity for wallet, balls and tees.

• Always tuck your shirt in.

• NO DENIM!!!!!!!

• Owning a steamer is a necessity for a clean look.

As new trends begin to push out the old, there are still those who hold tight to their traditional garb. Because of this, fashion in the golf industry is going through an extreme polarization in what is popular. In an attempt to meet the demand for patterned, casual crossover apparel favored by millennials, as well at the traditional, solid cotton shirts and cashmere favored by the old school country club gentleman, golf retail spaces are forced to maintain a wide selection of brands and styles. Finding the right balance of traditional and modern attire can be challenging, often requiring much trial and error.

Once a club has chosen what to bring in for the year, it’s up to the golfer to build their wardrobe. Region, climate, club culture and demographics are all factors to be considered when choosing what styles are a good fit for you. The Golden Rule for members is: when in doubt, consult your PGA Professional. They will have all the insights into what is trending and get you looking your best.