Golf fashion has always reflected its time. Early golfers played in heavy jackets and long skirts; later generations wore plus-fours, bright trousers and patterned sweaters; today's golfers wear lightweight, stretchy technical fabrics, and dress codes are gradually relaxing. Here's a short history of what golfers have worn, and why.
The early days: formal wear
In golf's early centuries, players simply wore their everyday clothes, which for the gentlemen who dominated early clubs meant formal attire: tweed jackets, waistcoats, ties and caps. Some clubs had red jackets, partly so golfers could be seen by others on shared land.
Women golfers played in long skirts, corsets, blouses and hats, which made a full swing difficult. Read history of women's golf.
Plus-fours and knitwear
In the early 20th century, plus-fours, loose trousers ending below the knee, worn with long socks, became the classic golf look, along with flat caps, knitted sweaters and ties. They gave more freedom of movement than full-length trousers.
Women's clothing gradually became shorter and less restrictive, with skirts, cardigans and lighter blouses.
Mid-century colour
From the middle of the 20th century, golf clothing became lighter and more colourful: short-sleeved shirts, slacks, bold patterns and brightly coloured trousers became popular, especially in warm-weather destinations.
The polo shirt
The short-sleeved collared knit shirt, now known as the polo shirt, became the standard golf top, combining comfort with a smart appearance. It remains the core of most golf dress codes. Read what to wear on the golf course.
Technical fabrics
From the late 20th century, synthetic and technical fabrics transformed golf clothing:
- Moisture-wicking shirts and base layers.
- Stretch fabrics for freedom of movement.
- Waterproof and breathable rain gear. Read our golf rain gear guide.
- UV-protective fabrics. Read sun protection for golfers.
- Lightweight layering for changing weather.
Shoes
Golf shoes evolved from leather boots with nails or metal spikes, to soft spikes, and now spikeless designs that look like casual trainers. Read our golf shoes guide.
Today's styles
- More relaxed dress codes at many courses: hoodies, mock necks and joggers are increasingly accepted at some, though not all, clubs.
- Athletic styles inspired by other sports.
- Wider choice for women, with practical, stylish options. Read our women's golf clothing guide.
Dress codes then and now
Dress codes still vary widely. Traditional clubs often maintain strict codes, particularly in clubhouses; modern courses and golf entertainment venues are much more relaxed. Read clubhouse etiquette.
Frequently asked questions
What did early golfers wear?
Everyday formal clothing: tweed jackets, waistcoats and ties for men; long skirts and hats for women.
What are plus-fours?
Loose trousers ending below the knee, worn with long socks, popular in early 20th-century golf.
When did polo shirts become standard in golf?
Over the 20th century, the polo shirt became the standard golf top.
Are golf dress codes becoming more relaxed?
At many courses, yes, though traditional clubs often keep stricter codes.
The bottom line
Golf fashion has moved from formal tweed and long skirts to plus-fours, colourful mid-century styles, polo shirts and today's technical fabrics, with dress codes slowly relaxing. For more golf history, read the history of golf.