Fairway Fabulous: The Rise of High-End Fashion in Women’s Golf

Words: Krista Giovara  

Once upon a time, women’s golf attire looked like it had been borrowed from your least favorite relative. You know the vibe - boxy polos, pleated knee-length khakis, sun hats the size of satellite dishes and an overall aesthetic that screamed “I gave up.” It was practical, sure, but fashionable? Not even a little. Thankfully, those days are behind us.  Today, women’s golf fashion is having a moment and it’s about time. The National Golf Foundation reports that there were almost 8 million female on-course golfers in 2024. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or still trying to figure out which end of the club to hold, one thing is clear: women want to look good on the green. And finally, the fashion world is on board.  Honestly, some of us play golf not just for the nine holes and the iced tea refills, but because golf fashion has become a lot more fun. Think less “sport uniform” and more “elevated leisurewear wearable from tee time to happy hour.”  

From Functional to Fabulous  

The evolution didn’t happen overnight. For years, women were stuck choosing between “ugly and shapeless fits” or “questionably short and not appropriate for the golf club looks”. However, the last ten years have ushered in a welcome shift and the range of trending golf fashion brands now available has made it more fun to visit the pro shop for a spot of retail therapy.  

You see, as golf surged in popularity and became a game that more women want in on (a movement aided by key golf influencers such as Paige Spiranac and Tisha Alyn), savvy brands took notice that women golfers could be beautiful, stylish and athletic all at once. Enter the new era of women’s golf apparel, where high-end fashion and forward-thinking designers create clothes that fit, flatter, and look good.  

This isn’t just about looking pretty, it’s about the message the golf clothes send. Products that say: I take my game seriously, but I also take my style seriously. And whether you’re swinging for par or just swinging by the clubhouse, that confidence shows.  

The Rise of Golf Core  

You’ve heard of normcore and athleisure. Well, now there’s golf core and it’s not just a trend, it’s a lifestyle.  

Golf core is what happens when high-end leisurewear meets traditional golf attire. It takes the old school golf outfit to the next level. We’re talking skorts that move with you (and don’t ride up), polos that actually have some structure (goodbye, limp collars), and sweaters you’ll wear even when you’re nowhere near the green.  

Brands like Vuori, Tory Sport, Alo, J. Lindeberg, Byrdie Golf Social Wear and Greyson Clothiers are leading the charge. They’ve figured out what women want: apparel that performs and looks good. These pieces are breathable, moisture-wicking, UV-protective and most importantly, beautifully designed. 

Golf as a Fashion Destination  

The secret is out: more and more women are falling in love with golf not because of the sport, but because of the style. There’s something about a slim-cut pant, and a tailored quarter-zip that makes you feel put together - even if your short game is falling apart. Golf fashion has a new kind of runway and it’s looking very green.  And let’s not ignore the power of social platforms like Instagram either. Social media is full of stylish women on the course - some pros, some amateurs and all serving looks with their swing. It’s inspiring a whole new wave of players who want to be part of the lifestyle and who buy the clothes regardless of how well they play the game.   

High-End Brands Get in the Game  

Not so long ago, the most stylish thing you could find in a golf store was a koozie. Today, that same shop might stock pieces that wouldn’t look out of place at New York Fashion Week.  

Luxury designers are taking note. Ralph Lauren has long been a brand that represents casual and sporty style, but even brands like Louis Vuitton have entered the ring, creating monogrammed golf bags and accessories.  What’s exciting is that these pieces aren’t just fashionable - they’re functional. They stretch. They breathe. They work. And they remind us that performance doesn’t have to mean polyester and pleats. Image: Ralph Lauren

Dressing the Part - Even When You’re Still Learning the Game  

Here’s the thing: not everyone playing golf is trying to make the LPGA Tour.  Some of us are just there for the fresh air, the occasional birdie, nine holes and lunch. And that’s okay.  Golf used to be a pretty intimidating scene for women - the rules, the etiquette and dare I say, the hideous fashion. But today, women are walking onto the course in head-to-toe curated looks, feeling confident and looking stylish. They’re joining clubs, taking lessons, and saying, “I may not be great yet - but at least I look like I belong.”  And that’s a huge leap for golf fashion.  

Image: Vuori Volley Skirt

Fashion as an Entry Point  

While I haven’t found any hard evidence that connects the rise in golf fashion options and the increase in women playing golf, I believe it’s there. It’s as if the new era of golf fits has become an invitation. A way to say, “This sport and this lifestyle are for you”. And for many women, that’s all they need to give golf a try. It’s no longer about changing who you are to fit into golf - it’s about golf changing to make women comfortable enough to join in.  

Final Thoughts From the Clubhouse 

Fashion might not improve your game, but it can do something equally important: make you feel comfortable, confident, and excited to be on the course. Look good, feel good, play good and that’s worth celebrating. So, whether you’re a lifelong golfer or just now eyeing your first Dior visor, know this - there’s never been a better time to get dressed and get in the game.  

See you on the green. I’ll be the one in the high-waisted skort and the buttery-soft cashmere sweater, probably digging through my bag for an extra tee… but looking fabulous while I do it!