Here at GolfThreads, we want to give you some tips on how to create a golf wardrobe that can transcend the course. By purchasing some key on-course pieces, following our “Do’s” and “Don’t’s” and pairing items properly, your golf clothing can transition nicely off the course (ie. drinks with that special someone, casual Friday at work, and the neighborhood barbecue).
Certain clothing brands and materials are fantastic to wear while playing golf but not all transition well off the course. Show up to the bar in a golf uniform and you will lose any fashion edge to the guys rocking TravisMathew, Linksoul, Ted Baker, Polo Ralph Lauren, Dunning, Lacoste, and J.Lindeberg! Here’s advice on how to create a functional, stylish and multipurpose golf wardrobe.
Polos & Layers
Golf shirts are at the heart of our wardrobes, right? Don’t go cheap here (remember if done properly, you can look like a boss on AND off the course, so let’s get it right). Too many guys size up with their shirts. Make sure your polo fits properly. Sleeves should hit mid-bicep and lightly hug your arms. There should never be more than a couple of inches of fabric on either side of your stomach regardless of your body shape. Fabric matters; cotton blends tend to be better “all-around” choices. When the weather starts to get cooler, consider a sweater, pullover or cardigan instead of a base-layer with said polo.
Trousers
Remember you are not being sponsored. You don’t have to create an entire outfit with one brand. Mix and match. Also, it is okay to go beyond golf specific brands. Bonobos and J.Crew, for example, offer some great cotton chinos with added flex that is very versatile. J.Crew’s Stretch Chinos are my pants of choice given price, function and style. Finally, make sure your pants fit properly. Baggy is sloppy. Slimmer is better. Tapered with a short break looks best!
Shoes
Hybrid golf shoes are great, but they look a bit awkward off the course. Instead, consider slipping into something like the ECCO Jeremy, which is adaptable enough to be worn with any look, or the ECCO Jack Slip-On for something more hip and casual (SeaVees and Vans slip-ons also work here).
Belts & Socks
It is a new age, gents, so get with it. There are some killer belts that you can add to your closet that will complement your outfit (no need to match it anymore) or add some flair. My current favorite, on and off the course is the Vineyard Vines Skull & X-Bones Canvas Belt. Talk about intimidating your playing partner and giving off an edgy vibe with the ladies. Win-win. If crossbones isn’t your style, take a more conservative approach with a braided belt.
See Also: GolfThreads x TRENDYGOLF Selects: 15 Essentials for Fall
Final thoughts on belts (I could write an entire article on belts alone); unless you are on the PGA Tour, never ever wear a white belt. Actually, even if you are on the PGA Tour, never wear a white belt. And save the oversized logo buckles for the golf course. They do not transition well. Socks are another way to accessorize. I stay traditional with my socks. But by all means, be like Bubba Watson and have fun with them.
Hats
Justin Timberlake has brought ‘sexy back’ to golf hats. (In fact look to him for any style tips. He gets it.) Linksoul’s California Trucker Hat has been photographed on JT hundreds of times, whether he is teeing it up or walking the streets with Jessica Biel. Mark Wahlberg is a loyal TravisMathew guy and can usually be found wearing one of the brand’s signature lids. You too will get ‘good vibrations’ when you top your dome with one of their stylish and fun hats.
Looking good and being stylish on the course can be expensive. Hopefully, this article gave you some ideas on how to create a multi-purpose wardrobe that makes you the best-dressed in your foursome, as well as the most superfly guy after the round.