Golf has always been a sport deeply rooted in tradition, with a focus on etiquette and formality, especially when it comes to dress codes. For years, the sport stuck to strict rules, ensuring that players followed a specific dress code on the course. As newer players from different generations have joined, the dress code has become more relaxed to allow for greater comfort. Of course, you still have to dress appropriately—you can’t just wear anything you want. One item that has played a significant role in the modern golf etiquette of women is the skort—a clever blend of a skirt and shorts that perfectly combines tradition with modernity.
In this article, we’ll explore how the introduction of women’s golf skorts has both influenced and reflected the evolution of golf dress codes. From their historical origins to their role in modernizing golf fashion and etiquette, skorts have become more than just a practical choice—they’re a symbol of the sport’s future.
A Brief History of Golf Dress Codes
Miss Joyce Wethered. Image from Scottish Golf History. Retrieved from https://www.scottishgolfhistory.org
The history of golfing attire can be traced back to the sport's early days in the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, golf was mostly played by the upper class, and players were expected to dress in a manner that reflected their social standing. For women, this meant long skirts, high-collared blouses, and hats—outfits that were far from practical for swinging a club or walking under the scorching sun. Despite the sport’s physical demands, comfort and practicality took a back seat to tradition and decorum.
As the sport grew more accessible in the mid-20th century, there was an evolution in golf dress codes. Women started wearing shorter skirts, tailored trousers, and sleeveless blouses, marking the first steps toward a more flexible dress code. Women’s golf fashion has been slowly evolving to prioritize the comfort of the modern woman. However, despite this progress, it’s hard to fully let go of tradition, so proper etiquette is still required, leading to the development of more athleisure options.
The introduction of pants and shorter hemlines was a significant turning point. At this time, more and more women wanted to get into golf, especially with the rise of star players like Annika Sörenstam. As a result, women took golfing to the next level. However, they didn’t want to be held back by uncomfortable clothes, so women’s golf fashion had to adapt. Yet, these new options still paid homage to the sport’s traditions, with designs that remained polished and professional.
The Rise of the Golf Skort: Merging Tradition with Modernity
One of the most revolutionary additions to women’s golf fashion has been the golf skort. Introduced in the late 20th century, the skort was an answer to the desire for more functional attire that still maintained the elegance and tradition associated with women’s golf. It was the perfect evolution for modern women’s golf fashion. Skorts provide the visual appeal of a skirt while offering the practicality of shorts, making them a perfect choice for female golfers.
The rise of golf skorts in women’s golf attire represents a delicate balance between tradition and modernity. While shorts were seen as too casual for some traditional clubs and skirts were to uncomfortable to wear on the course, the skort was seen as a compromise—offering a more contemporary take on golf attire without straying too far from tradition. This balance allowed women to embrace a more ‘athleisure’ look while still keeping with golf’s etiquette.
As skorts gained popularity, they also began influencing the design of other golf apparel. Skorts became synonymous with the modern female golfer, especially when pro women golfers like Nelly Korda or Lydia Ko wore them in tournaments. This represented a shift in how women could navigate both fashion and performance on the course. The impact of skorts on golf etiquette was undeniable, leading to more relaxed dress codes at various golf clubs and inspiring innovations in women’s sportswear.
Modern Golf Etiquette: How Skorts Are Redefining the Norms
The rise of skorts in the golfing scene is not just about fashion; it’s about reshaping modern golf etiquette. In recent years, there has been a broader movement toward inclusivity and flexibility in the sport. Back in the day, golf was seen as a sport for older, wealthy folks who were mostly retired. Only recently has that stigma begun to break as the sport becomes more inclusive and less strict.
One rule that can definitely be loosened up is the dress code, and skorts have been doing just that! Women today are encouraged to express their personal style on the course, with a growing number of clubs adopting more inclusivity in golf fashion. Relaxed dress codes that prioritize comfort and performance are one way to attract younger aspiring golfers.
Skorts have let women move away from overly formal attire, giving them more freedom and comfort on the course. The compression shorts hidden inside the skirt offer extra flexibility, and you can find skorts in all sorts of lengths, both long and short. They symbolize a shift in golf aparrel that values individuality, modernity, and functionality without losing sight of tradition.
And female golfers and club managers alike love it! The reaction to skorts has been overwhelmingly positive as more people start to wear them. So much so that you can just casually wear them to the mall right now. Many have noted how skorts allow women to feel more confident and comfortable, all while keeping the respectability that golf demands. Skorts have become a favorite among female golfers of all ages, and their popularity shows no signs of waning.
Navigating Dress Codes Today: Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Skort
Just because skorts have become the norm doesn’t mean you can wear just anything. There are still dress codes to follow. That’s why choosing the right golf skort is important for any golfer. While many clubs have loosened their restrictions, it’s still essential to be mindful of navigating golf dress codes before hitting the course. You want to keep track of these:
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Understand Club Policies: Not all clubs have the same rules, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with their specific dress codes. Remember, you’re paying to play on their course and use their facilities, so it’s a good idea to check their dress code first. Some clubs may have skort length requirements or restrict certain designs.
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Choose the Right Fit: When selecting a skort, choose a style that balances comfort and respectability. The last thing you want on the golf course is extra attention, so wear attire that reflects you. If you’re unsure about what’s acceptable, consider a knee-length skort. Ultimately, it’s about how much freedom your legs have while you play.
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Style Your Skort with Confidence: Now, here are some golf skort styling tips: pair your skort with a classic polo or lightweight sweater for a look that blends tradition with modern style. Finish with a visor or cap for sun protection and a complete, polished outfit. Of course, this is just a recommendation—you can dress however you feel that day.
The Future of Golf Fashion: Where Skorts and Dress Codes Are Heading
Looking forward, the future of golf fashion seems poised to continue its evolution toward inclusivity, sustainability, and performance. Skorts, with their perfect blend of tradition and modernity, will likely remain a staple in women’s golf wardrobes. Skorts are so in right now that wearing them just casually is an acceptable style. As more women continue to embrace these versatile pieces, we may see further shifts in dress codes that accommodate personal style.
In the end, golf’s evolution of golf dress codes and the rise of skorts reflect a larger cultural shift toward a more accessible sport. Skorts symbolize the right balance between the old and the new, ensuring that golf is ready for the future while still paying tribute to its humble beginnings.
As women continue to push the boundaries of what’s acceptable on the course, skorts will no doubt lead the way in shaping golf’s next chapter—one where performance, comfort, and style coexist seamlessly.
Visual Guide: The Evolution of Golf Attire
Info from The Evolution of Women’s Golf Fashion.” Aphrodite Hills, https://www.aphroditehills.com/our-blogs/a-retrospective-the-evolution-of-womens-golf-fashion/.
In summary, skorts have significantly influenced the evolution of golf dress codes by striking a harmonious balance between tradition and modernity. They embody the sport’s ability to adapt and grow while respecting its rich heritage. As golf fashion evolves, skorts represent how the sport is becoming more inclusive and versatile, accommodating the diverse needs and preferences of today’s players.
We encourage you to embrace these changes and consider how skorts can enhance your golfing experience. Whether you’re looking for a style that fits your personal taste or one that adheres to the dress codes of your favorite golf club, exploring skort options can offer both functionality and fashion. Stay ahead of the curve by choosing attire that reflects the evolving culture of golf. Explore our collection of skorts and discover the perfect balance between style and performance for your game.
