The Hidden Story Behind Old Fashioned Golf Outfits: Two Centuries of Style
- Heath Carter
- Jul 16
- 12 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Those Victorian golfers somehow managed their games wearing tweed knickerbockers that rustled with each step and boots that belonged more in a drawing room than on dewy fairways—a sartorial challenge that makes today's moisture-wicking fabrics seem like pure luxury.
Golf's fashion story reads like a thrilling match between tradition and practicality, where each decade brought fresh challenges to the links. Early players from Britain's elite circles wore clothing that announced their social standing long before their handicap could. Your modern golf wardrobe—with its breathable weaves, four-way stretch properties, and UV protection—represents a quiet victory over those restrictive garments that once dominated the course. The pendulum has swung from rigid formality to performance-focused comfort, reflecting how the sport itself has opened its arms to players from every walk of life. Join me as we trace this fascinating evolution from those buttoned-up Victorian ensembles through the bold, synthetic statements of the 1980s golfers, right up to today's technical marvels that work as hard as you do on every shot, offering competitive pricing and great value for Surrey golfers and enthusiasts worldwide.
The Early Days of Golf Fashion (1800s–1920s)
Image Source: featherie golf balls
The influence of British aristocracy
Golf's earliest wardrobes told stories of status before they whispered anything about swing mechanics. The exclusive pastime for the British elite demanded clothing that matched Victorian and Edwardian sensibilities—every stitch designed to announce your place in society rather than improve your place on the leader board. This wasn't merely about looking respectable; it was about preserving golf as a "gentleman's game" where "gentleman's attire" served as an invisible barrier to entry. Social standing trumped athletic performance every time, creating a dress code that valued appearances over the practical realities of chasing a small white ball across rolling terrain.
Men's old fashioned golf outfit: tweed, ties, and caps
Gentlemen golfers assembled their course attire like armour for battle—formal, layered, and thoroughly impractical. Their uniforms featured knee-length knickerbockers (plus fours) paired with dress shirts sporting those unforgiving stiff collars, topped with waistcoats that added both warmth and gravitas. Argyle socks peeked above leather shoes fitted with specialised cleats, whilst flat caps or tweed hats completed the ensemble. Those signature plus fours—extending exactly four inches below the knee—offered a compromise between movement and respectability. Many players doubled up on waistcoats for extra warmth or simply because the look demanded such formality. Come the 1920s, the aesthetic evolved to include flat caps, proper neckties, single-breasted jackets, and the elegant "spectator" shoes that graced countless fairways.
Women's old fashioned golf outfit: skirts and blouses
Female golfers faced an even greater challenge—attempting athletic grace whilst trapped in garments designed for drawing room propriety. Victorian women navigated stiff crinoline petticoats and wired bustles that were "somewhat constricting and gave little opportunity for a free swing". The practical solution involved straw boaters, crisp white blouses, and long black skirts that spoke of modesty above all else. Simply seeing the ball required arm bands, whilst skirt bands prevented embarrassing encounters with coastal breezes. Fashion's unwritten rule was clear: anything that made the wearer "conspicuous" was considered "out of place". Relief finally arrived in the 1920s when hemlines dared to rise, with pioneering players like Joyce Wethered sporting narrow skirts that stopped just below the knees.
Why comfort was never a priority
The golf course became a stage where social expectations performed their own elaborate dance, relegating comfort to the role of understudy. Fabric choices prioritised durability and warmth over freedom of movement. Women's restrictive attire "undoubtedly influenced the type of golf or putting that they enjoyed," forcing many to develop creative workarounds like the ingenious "Miss Higgins Hoop". Even men's Norfolk sporting jackets, pristine shirts, ties, and multiple waistcoats served formality's demands rather than athletic function. The message was unmistakable: golf fashion reflected society's expectations, not the sport's physical requirements—a philosophy that would take decades to unravel.
Mid-20th Century Shifts (1930s–1960s)
Hard times have a way of stripping away the unnecessary, and golf fashion felt this transformation acutely during the turbulent decades that followed those formal Victorian years. Economic pressures became an unexpected catalyst, pushing the sport's sartorial choices toward practicality in ways that aristocratic tradition never could.
Economic impact on golf attire during wartime
The Great Depression and World War II swept away golf's formal pretensions with startling efficiency. Golfers discovered that subdued colours and simpler designs worked just as well for their games as elaborate ensembles. Many players simply reached for everyday clothing rather than investing in specialised attire. Golf became a precious escape during these challenging years, even as clothing options grew increasingly limited by necessity. Those heavy tweeds and layered waistcoats suddenly seemed not just impractical, but almost absurdly extravagant.
The rise of polo shirts and lighter fabrics
The 1940s brought a quiet revolution in the form of short-sleeved knitted tops and lightweight trousers that would permanently alter golf's sartorial landscape. Polo shirts, borrowed from tennis courts, offered a respectable yet casual alternative to traditional button-down formality. These breathable cotton garments granted golfers freedom of movement that their predecessors could barely imagine. A particularly sweltering 1933 heatwave accelerated the shift toward lighter fabrics like flannel—proving that sometimes weather succeeds where fashion fails.
Classic golf outfit staples emerge
Post-war optimism breathed fresh life into golf fashion, with the 1950s establishing enduring classics that still influence today's courses. Knitted golf shirts paired with trousers or shorts in vibrant colours became the new standard. Lightweight jackets featured practical elastic waistbands and useful pockets that actually served a purpose. The classic combination of polo and trousers emerged as golf's definitive look, quietly replacing those formal suits and tweed jackets that had dominated for decades. Function finally found its voice alongside form, paving the way for the performance-focused designs we see in modern golf apparel companies like OTT Golfwear, which now offers competitive pricing on high-quality golf wear.
Golf looks influenced by American sportswear
American sportswear began reshaping golf fashion worldwide by the late 1950s. Brighter colours and relaxed fits became standard as golfers embraced a more casual approach. Synthetic fabrics entered the scene, with golf garments adopting yellows, browns, and oranges in slim-cut, slouchy styles. Even Christian Dior's 'New Look' influenced women's golf attire, with cinched waists becoming fashionable on the links. The Atlantic crossing brought a fresh perspective that would permanently change how golfers dressed for their favourite sport, setting the stage for the evolution of high-quality golf apparel we see today, including personalised polo shirts and stylish golf belts.
The Bold and Branded Era (1970s–1990s)
The fairways practically vibrated with colour as the 1970s burst onto the scene, transforming golf courses into kaleidoscopes of synthetic brilliance. Those muted tweeds and conservative cottons seemed to pack their bags overnight, replaced by fabrics that practically shouted their presence from every tee box.
Synthetic fabrics and bright patterns in the 70s
Polyester became the undisputed king of the course, its synthetic threads weaving magic that natural fibres simply couldn't match—vibrant hues that stayed brilliant wash after wash, paired with durability that laughed at grass stains. Your typical golfer now sported form-fitting pants that hugged every curve, bellbottoms that swished with each stride, and those gloriously wide-collared shirts that caught every breeze like sartorial sails. Male golfers embraced brown polyester with religious fervour, whilst women danced across fairways in primary colours so bold they could guide aircraft. The wider fashion world's rebellion had found its way onto the most traditional of sporting grounds—bell-bottom pants strutting down fairways where plus fours once reigned supreme.
80s golfers and the mix of tradition and flair
The 1980s brought a fascinating tug-of-war between innovation and heritage. Moisture-wicking fabrics and performance-driven materials like spandex whispered promises of comfort your grandfather's wool could never deliver. Yet preppy aesthetics crept back in, softening the hippie revolution with structured sophistication. Professional golfers like Seve Ballesteros and Jack Nicklaus became walking advertisements for this new era, their distinctive styles inspiring weekend warriors everywhere. Golf fashion now featured blazers with shoulder pads that could double as landing strips, high-waisted tailored trousers that emphasised every line, and polo shirts that finally achieved standard status for both men and women. Most importantly, sun protection emerged as a genuine concern—golf fashion was finally acknowledging that looking good meant nothing if you couldn't see the pin through squinting eyes.
Logo culture and sponsorships in the 90s
The 1990s crowned corporate branding as golf fashion's new monarch. Sponsorships began dictating wardrobe choices, with logos embroidered across chests and shoulders sometimes commanding more attention than the garments themselves. Companies like Lyle & Scott turned argyle knits into must-have statements, whilst Slazenger polo shirts became as familiar at national championships as the trophies themselves. Your classic 1990s male golfer wore polo shirts paired with pleated khakis that rustled with each swing; women matched similar polos with high-waisted capri pants that moved like second skin. This decade finally married performance with comfort, completing looks with practical accessories like visors that actually protected whilst enhancing your game. The rise of embroidered golf apparel and personalised polo options became increasingly popular, setting the stage for the customization trends we see in today's golf merchandise.
Old school golf outfit trends that defined the era
These three transformative decades left their mark like divots on golf's fashion fairway. The 70s gifted us those unmistakable wide collars and synthetic fabrics that revolutionised course comfort. The 80s contributed structured sophistication alongside improved technical fabrics that actually worked with your body. From the 90s, we inherited the enduring polo-and-khakis combination that still influences every pro shop display. Throughout this period, golf attire danced away from rigid formality toward genuine functionality—a journey that began with those first polyester experiments and culminated in performance-focused, brand-dominated apparel that worked as hard as you did. Every old fashioned golf outfit from this era tells its own story of how the sport itself was shedding its stuffy reputation, welcoming players who valued both style and substance with each passing season.
Modernisation and Innovation (2000s–2020s)
Image Source: Harlestons
The millennium brought a quiet revolution to golf wardrobes everywhere, where high-tech fabrics began working harder than ever before. Modern golf shirts now feature moisture-wicking properties that pull sweat away from your skin, UV protection that shields you from harmful rays, and breathable mesh panels strategically placed exactly where you need them most. This evolution in golf apparel has paved the way for brands like OTT Golfwear to offer optimal performance gear for golfers of all levels, including Surrey golfers looking for great value and competitive pricing.
Performance wear and the Tiger Woods effect
Tiger Woods changed everything when Nike struck that ground breaking partnership in 1996, worth a reported £31.77 million over five years. His influence multiplied dramatically with his second contract worth £83.39 million. That iconic red Sunday shirt became his signature power colour—instantly recognisable across every fairway and television screen. Woods pioneered the golf mock neck in 2003, boldly challenging traditional collared shirt requirements whilst setting trends that ripple through the sport today. His athletic approach pushed brands to create clothing that enhances your swing rather than restricts it, influencing the development of performance golf polos and other high-tech golf apparel that now dominate the market.
The rise of athleisure and casual golf looks
Athleisure took off in the early 2010s as busy golfers demanded clothing that worked double duty. Your modern golf wardrobe now transitions seamlessly from the 18th hole to dinner plans, with versatile pieces that look sharp in any setting. Today's golf shirts combine moisture-wicking technology with UV protection and breathable fabric panels that keep you comfortable whether you're sinking putts or grabbing lunch. This shift reflects how we've all moved towards streamlined wardrobes that maximise versatility without sacrificing performance.
Check out our new products on ottgolfwear.com for examples of how modern golf wear blends cutting-edge performance with everyday style, including our range of water proof jackets and rain jackets perfect for unpredictable weather on the course. Our growing reputation for personalised golf merchandise has made us a trusted partner for Surrey golfers and clubs alike.
Old fashioned golf outfit women vs. modern styles
Women's golf fashion has undergone a complete transformation from those restrictive Victorian ensembles. Modern women's golf clothing delivers:
Trendy garments with strategic stretch fabric and carefully placed pockets
Enhanced moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester
More fitted tops complemented by the return of visors
Brands now design clothes to match the personalities of female golf stars who have become influential trendsetters. OTT Golfwear offers a range that includes a golf polo, a golf skort, a golf midlayer and golf leggings specifically designed for women, ensuring comfort and style on the course. Our performance golf polo for women has gained popularity among professional golfers and amateur enthusiasts alike.
Sustainability and tech in today's golf fashion
Over 95% of golf apparel comes from materials derived from virgin plastic. Forward-thinking brands now create clothing from upcycled plastic removed from oceans. Many companies incorporate recycled polyester, organic cotton, and Merino wool for environmental benefits. Innovative technologies include fabrics with built-in sensors tracking posture and movement, helping golfers improve their game. Advanced moisture-wicking, UV protection, and temperature regulation ensure your performance never compromises your style. OTT Golfwear is at the forefront of this movement, offering a range of eco-friendly and technologically advanced golf accessories to complement their apparel line, catering to industry professionals and club fitters who demand the best in golf polo quality.
Conclusion
Those heavy woollen jackets and restrictive bustles from golf's earliest days seem almost comical now, yet they tell a remarkable story about how far we've travelled on this sartorial journey. Each era brought its own balance between looking the part and playing the game -sometimes favouring appearance over athletic performance, other times embracing bold new materials that scandalized traditionalists but liberated players' swings.
The most striking thread running through this century-long evolution is how golf fashion has mirrored the sport's own democratization. What began as an exclusive pursuit for Britain's elite, complete with rigid dress codes and formal requirements, gradually opened its doors to players from all backgrounds. Those economic pressures during wartime years, the rebellious polyester statements of the 1970s, and today's performance-focused designs all reflect broader cultural shifts that made golf more accessible to everyone.
Modern golf apparel represents a quiet triumph of innovation over tradition. Your current wardrobe likely features moisture-wicking fabrics, strategic stretch panels, and UV protection that would have seemed like science fiction to those early players struggling with their heavy wool. Check out our new products on ottgolfwear.com for examples of how contemporary designs blend these technical advances with timeless style suitable for both the course and your daily routine. OTT Golfwear offers a comprehensive range of golf team clothing and embroidered golf shirts, catering to both individual golfers and clubs looking for personalized options.
The sustainability movement now shapes the next chapter of this story. Forward-thinking brands consider environmental impact alongside performance, creating clothing from recycled materials without sacrificing the technical benefits that modern players expect. Golf fashion will undoubtedly continue evolving, but that fundamental tension between honouring tradition and embracing innovation—the same dynamic that has driven every meaningful change over the past century—remains at its heart. As the golf apparel market continues to grow, companies like OTT Golfwear are leading the charge in providing high-quality golf apparel that meets the demands of today's players while respecting the sport's rich heritage.
With our proven track record in delivering personalised golf solutions and custom design excellence, OTT Golfwear has become a trusted partner for Surrey golfers, junior golf teams, and national championships alike. Our consultative process ensures that we meet the unique needs of each client, whether it's creating bespoke Surrey-branded shirts or outfitting an entire club for championship success. We're proud to support charitable causes through our work, further cementing our position as a responsible and community-minded industry leader.
Key Takeaways
Golf fashion has transformed from restrictive Victorian formality to performance-driven modern wear, reflecting the sport's evolution from elite pastime to accessible recreation.
• Golf attire evolved from heavy tweed jackets and formal wear to breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics prioritising player performance and comfort.
• Economic pressures during the Great Depression and WWII shifted golf fashion from exclusive formal wear to practical, everyday clothing options.
• The 1970s-90s introduced bold synthetic fabrics, bright patterns, and logo culture, establishing the classic polo-and-trousers combination still popular today.
• Tiger Woods revolutionised golf apparel through Nike partnerships, popularising athletic performance wear and challenging traditional dress code requirements.
• Modern golf fashion embraces sustainability with recycled materials and athleisure designs that transition seamlessly from course to casual settings.
The century-long journey from plus fours to performance wear demonstrates how golf fashion has consistently balanced tradition with innovation, ultimately prioritising functionality without abandoning the sport's distinguished heritage. Today, brands like OTT Golfwear continue this tradition by offering a tailored range of high-quality golf apparel that meets the needs of modern golfers while respecting the sport's rich history.
FAQs
How has golf fashion evolved over the past two centuries?
Golf fashion has transformed dramatically, from formal Victorian-era attire to modern performance wear. Early golfers wore restrictive clothing like tweed jackets and long skirts, while today's players benefit from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics designed for comfort and performance on the course. Brands like OTT Golfwear now offer a wide range of golf accessories and apparel that combine style with functionality, catering to Surrey golfers and beyond with competitive pricing and great value.
What impact did Tiger Woods have on golf fashion?
Tiger Woods revolutionised golf apparel through his partnership with Nike. He popularised athletic performance wear, introduced the iconic red Sunday shirt, and challenged traditional dress codes with innovations like the golf mock neck in 2003. His influence led to a greater focus on clothing that enhances movement and performance, paving the way for modern performance golf polos and other high-tech golf apparel.
How has women's golf fashion changed since the early days?
Women's golf fashion has evolved from restrictive Victorian ensembles to modern, functional attire. Today's women golfers wear trendy garments with strategic stretch fabrics, enhanced moisture-wicking properties, and carefully placed pockets. The style has become more fitted and comfortable, allowing for better performance on the course. Companies like OTT Golfwear now offer a range of golf trousers and shorts specifically designed for women golfers, including personalised polo shirts for a touch of individual style.
What role does sustainability play in modern golf fashion?
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in golf fashion. Many brands now incorporate recycled materials, such as polyester made from plastic removed from oceans. There's a growing focus on using organic cotton and Merino wool to reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance and style. This trend is reflected in the offerings of eco-conscious golf apparel companies like OTT Golfwear, which has made sustainability a key part of its growing reputation among industry professionals and club fitters.
How has technology influenced golf clothing in recent years?
Technology has significantly impacted golf clothing, introducing features like moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and temperature regulation. Some innovative brands are even incorporating sensors into fabrics to track posture and movement, helping golfers improve their game. These advancements ensure that modern golf wear enhances both style and performance on the course. OTT Golfwear, for example, offers a range of technologically advanced golf merchandise that incorporates these innovations for optimal performance, making it a trusted partner for professional golfers and amateur enthusiasts alike.
As the golf industry continues to evolve, leading golf retailers showcase the latest innovations at events like the PGA Show, where excellent communication between brands and customers helps shape the future of golf fashion. OTT Golfwear's commitment to creating lifesavers on the course extends to their support of local teams, including the Surrey U18 team, through fully bespoke solutions tailored to each client's needs.
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