It was an emotional week at Bay Hill as the golf world honored Arnold Palmer. From high-tops and hats to cardigans and belt buckles, GolfThreads looks back at the fashion tributes to The King at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Embed from Getty Images Embed from Getty Images Embed from Getty ImagesRickie Fowler (Puma Golf)
This week was all about honoring The King and no one did it more fashionably than Rickie Fowler. With iconic images of Arnie on his shoes, Palmer’s umbrella logo on his hat, a pink shirt in the opening round, and a yellow and green kit on Saturday, Rickie proved that he is second to none when it comes to sartorial tributes. Don’t forget those knickers at the 2014 U.S. Open that were a tip of the cap to Payne Stewart, either. As much heat as Fowler catches for his fashion forward looks and lack of victories, he is a guy who ‘gets it.’ Well, except for that white belt on Saturday.
BTW, props to Cobra Puma Golf. They really went all out with the gear for Rickie and Graham DeLaet this week. The brand even replaced their logo with Palmer’s umbrella logo on the left chest of their shirts and the front of Fowler’s hat. That’s prime branding real estate. And Rickie’s Arnold Palmer Hi-Tops were auctioned off for $25,300 with proceeds going to Arnie’s Army Foundation. Bravo!
Embed from Getty ImagesSam Saunders (TravisMathew)
The apple didn’t fall far from the tree with Sam Saunders. Arnold Palmer’s grandson was a class act throughout the week, and he sported one of my favorite looks. If you prefer classic styles, this subtle all over print is an easy way to introduce a pattern into your wardrobe. I just wish Saunders would wear this umbrella logo belt buckle every week.
Graeme McDowell
We know G-Mac is one of the most fashionable dudes on the course, but he also brings some serious swagger in the menswear department. A well-tailored jacket? Check. A crisp white shirt, a stylish ‘do, and shades that James Bond would be envious of? Check, check, and check.
Marc Leishman
Giving the winner a red cardigan was a brilliant move, but I wish it was executed better. The body of this sweater is boxy and the sleeves are too long and too wide. Maybe the organizing committee can consult with co-host Graeme McDowell about how a cardigan should fit. Nonetheless, this is likely to become the most coveted piece of apparel in a golfer’s wardrobe behind the Green Jacket.
Henrik Stenson (Hugo Boss)
The Iceman cometh. Stenson showed us how to take on cold weather by layering this puffer vest from Hugo Boss over the brand’s Zelchior sweater. This has been my go-to layering look this winter. Also, bobble hats > non-bobble hats.
Billy Horschel (RLX Ralph Lauren)
The best way to add some personality to your outfits this year is to grab some colorful pants and shorts. These mint green and periwinkle blue colors from RLX are some of the freshest you’ll find this spring.
David Lingmerth (Izod)
I’m usually all in on Lingmerth’s style moves, but white socks with dark pants and shoes is a Fashion 101 miss.
Rory McIlroy (Nike Golf)
I’ve thrown plenty of shade Nike’s way over the years, but the Swoosh has really upped its game in 2017. The pants have a more modern fit, the day-glow hues are gone, and polos with subtle textures are taking center stage.
Jason Day (Nike Golf)
Since moving to Nike, the biggest changes in Jason Day’s wardrobe are brighter colors and slimmer fitting pants with a short break. As a result, he looks taller and slimmer than in years past.
Bubba Watson (Oakley & Kjus)
Nice Kjus jacket there, Bubba, but aren’t those European Ryder Cup Team colors?
I always look forward to this weekly blog. My thought this weekend (and all season really) is that Jason Day just doesn’t look right in the Nike gear! I think he wore the Adidas stuff better. My first critique would be the fit and style of the new Nike line (which looks great on Rory, BTW); Jason’s physique doesn’t suit the slim fitting collarless shirts Nike is putting out. I also am not fond of many of the color choices that he is wearing (especially the orange swoosh hat). They just don’t compliment his skin tone and complexion. IMO, he always looks better in darker colors.
I always look forward to your comments and analysis. Not a fan of the blade collars on Day, either, but I think the tailoring of his pants is much cleaner since joining Nike.