Fashion for Golfers: Be Seen on the Green

Golf definitely isn’t just for the boys. You only have to look at the list of female professionals such as Michelle Wie, Laura Davies and Paula Creamer (who’ve lifted more than enough trophies between them) to know that it’s a sport we can get into. But the stereotypical image of a golfer in sensible slacks is not for everyone, and it’s also far from the reality for women who want to inject a little fashion and personality into their game. If you want to tee off in style, and know where to find the trendiest golf resorts, then read on.

Basics You’ll Need (the LBD Equivalents) 

Here are the key things you’ll need as a golfer:

• The right shoes – golf footwear stops your feet slipping when you’re perfecting your swing. You can buy a soft-spiked pair by a leading sportswear brand such as Nike or Reebok for under £30.
• A breathable top with movement – the last thing you need is to feel restricted on the green. The ever-popular polo shirt is a staple for a reason, and many courses ask for collared shirts only. This means no vest tops or t-shirts!
• A reliable pair of trousers for winter, and ¾ lengths, skirts or shorts for the summer.
• Headwear – you’ll be out in the elements, so try visors or caps for summer and beanies or headbands for winter. Certain golf hotspots are sunny all year round, such as the Algarve in Portugal, where it pays to be prepared for warm weather.

Trendiest Labels in Golf

• The most established brands to look out for are Green Lamb, Cutter & Buck, and Ping.
• For quirky golf wear, try Alice Collins, who uses bright pastel shades and eye-catching patterns, such as this season’s polka dot.
• Pink Ribbon Golf raises money for cancer charities such as Breakthrough. 10% of each product’s RRP is donated, and they have some great accessories such as ball markers and gloves.
• If you want a bit of bling on the green, Divot Diva can provide it. Every item can be personalised, including golf umbrellas, bags and scorecards.
• Want the Ralph Lauren golf look, but without the price tag? Grab a collared polo shirt in a bright colour, such as candy pink or cobalt blue - you can pick these up from most high street clothing stores. Look for one with a contrasting striped band on the collar, such as yellow on black, or make your own by adding some ribbon. Add some tailored trousers in white, pink, navy or black, then accessorize with a visor and some large aviator sunglasses.
• If you want to go retro there are plenty of vintage-style golfing shoes for women that look a lot like brogues, which have been in fashion for the last few years and don’t show any signs of disappearing. For the really authentic look then try online vintage retailers, car boot sales or Ebay. 

Finding a Fashionable Golf Destination

Now you’ve got your outfits sorted, it’s time to think about the best places to go, so that you don’t let your hard work go to waste. One of the trendiest golf hotspots in Europe is the Algarve in Portugal, which plays host to the Portuguese leg of the Masters every year; you might have seen Britain’s Tom Lewis swinging his way to victory back in October.

·         With a staggering 38 courses to choose from, it’s not surprising that Today’s Golfer Magazine called it ‘one of the leading golf destinations in the world’.

·         Portugal’s reliable sunny weather means that you can spend longer on the course than you would in the UK.

·         Try a hotel that’s close to the action such as the family-friendly Vilamoura Golf Hotel, or the Pestana Vila Sol Golf and Resort for those seeking 5* luxury.

Now you have everything to make your next golf trip a success, so go out there in style. Whether you’re taking tips from Ralph Lauren or putting your retro shoes to good use, it’s easy to make golf a fashionable sport.

[Left] Polo Shirts: Nike Cotton Tech Women’s Golf Polo Shirt, £20.89 each, NikeStore.

[Right] Polo shirt: Fred Perry Polo, £62.00, www.farfetch.com. 

Shorts: City Shorts, £15.00 in sale, Red or Dead.

Golf shoes: Nike Aire Summer Lite II Women’s Golf Shoe, £45.00, NikeStore.

Images via ASOS Fashion Finder.