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ince becoming one of America ’ s favorite pastimes decades ago , golf has evolved in many ways — from the clubs we swing to the balls we hit and , of course , the clothes we wear .
Golf attire has always reflected the era in which it is played , evolving alongside the game itself . From the tailored suits and plus fours of the early 1900s to today ’ s performance fabrics and bold patterns , what players wear on the course is a blend of tradition and innovation .
While a full history of golf fashion could fill an entire book , this article takes a look at some of the game ’ s most notable style moments — from history ’ s classic looks to today ’ s latest trends .
A Brief History
Over a century ago , as golf began to surge in popularity across the United States , much of what was worn on the course , was vastly different from what we see on courses today .
“ The apparel back in the day started out with pants , jackets and vest ties ,” said Bill Robertson , President / Executive Director of the Golf Heritage Society . “ And then in the teens , that kind of morphed into what we call plus fours or knickers .”
Plus Fours — which are loose-fitting pants that gather around the calf — were worn by golf legends of the time like Gene Sarazen , Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen , often tucked into a pair of high-rise socks . Paired with a tailored suit jacket or sweater , these styles blended sophistication with tradition on the course .
ZACH PFINGST , USGA
Much like the game itself , golf fashion is everevolving with innovative trends and new styles
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. org M ARCH / A PRIL 2025 | V IRGINIA G OLFER 27