15 Vintage Golf Outfits That Somehow Actually Slayed Back Then
From bold patterns to iconic color choices, these legendary golf outfits redefined style on the green, proving that fashion and sport can be a winning combination.
- Alyana Aguja
- 6 min read
Golf has always been linked to tradition, but the players have increasingly used their closets to make a bold statement beyond the game. From Jack Nicklaus’ traditional yellow polos to Rickie Fowler’s flashy orange ensembles, these style legends have not only impacted fashion but also helped define the golfing identity itself. With vivid hues, bold patterns, and personalized accessories, these golf uniforms show that it’s possible for fashion to be as strong as ability on the golf course.
1. Jack Nicklaus’ 1960s Yellow Polo & Cardigan Combo
Image from Gem
Jack Nicklaus established the ’60s golf style trend, frequently spotted in a yellow polo topped with a cardigan. The bright polo was an emblem of Nicklaus’ young confidence, and the cardigan provided sophistication to the otherwise casual outfit. It was so perfectly sporty yet refined that it became his signature look, and everyone took notice.
2. Arnold Palmer’s Plaid Trousers and Solid Polo (1960s-70s)
Image from Shop Arnold Palmer
Arnold Palmer famously wore plaid trousers as part of his golf attire, pairing them with solid-colored polos for a fashionable yet bold style. Palmer was renowned for his ability to marry fashion with function, and his look symbolized the golden era of golf’s visual evolution. The combination proved so legendary that even now, it’s still associated with the “Palmer style.”
3. Tiger Woods’ Red Shirt & Black Pants (Late 1990s-2000s)
Image from The New York Times
Tiger Woods’ black pants and red shirt became his go-to Sunday attire and a memorable aspect of his game-day tradition. The pairing was not only a reference to his brand but also a psychological advantage, as it made Tiger and his fans feel confident. This iconic ensemble made each Sunday victory look even more epic, with fans waiting for his next win.
4. Greg Norman’s Shark Pattern Shirt (1980s-90s)
Image from American Golf
During his playing days, Greg Norman, popularly referred to as “The Shark,” sported a classic shark-patterned shirt. The fun but sporty pattern reflected his aggressive, competitive personality on the golf course. His fashion sense assisted in moving away from conventional golf wear, providing something new and exciting without compromising style.
5. Seve Ballesteros’ Bold Color Block Polos (1980s)
Image from Golf Business News
Seve Ballesteros’s iconic color-blocked polos were famous for being adventurous. These bold, contrasting colors on the green could not go unnoticed. His fashion choices indicated that golf did not have to be staid and old-fashioned but could instead be vibrant. Ballesteros’ dressing not only earned him respect on the course but also turned him into a fashion icon off it.
6. Ben Hogan’s Classic V-Neck Sweater (1940s-50s)
Image from eBay.ph
Ben Hogan’s traditional V-neck sweater was a minimalist yet classic, usually paired with a crisp collared blouse. The understated colors, navy or grey, conveyed a classic chic that established the golf fashion standard. Hogan’s understated approach to fashion was a testament to his single-minded dedication to the game, becoming an emblem of refined simplicity.
7. Bubba Watson’s Pink Driver Shirt (2010s)
Image from LIV Golf
Bubba Watson added a splash of personality to golf with his bright pink shirt, a decision that defied the conventional golf attire. The shirt, complemented by his relaxed attitude, assisted him in gaining popularity in the mainstream as not only a champion but a fashion icon. Watson’s boldness in donning bright colors assisted in ushering in a new age of personality and uniqueness in golf wear.
8. Phil Mickelson’s Green Checkered Pants (2000s)
Image from The Mirror
Phil Mickelson splashed onto the course during the early 2000s wearing his signature green checkered pants. The dramatic pattern with a more conservative solid shirt allowed Mickelson to be noticed among the crowd while still looking professional. His talent for combining creativity and conservatism made him a favorite among those wanting to bring personality to their golf fashion.
9. Johnny Miller’s Turtleneck & Blazer Look (1970s)
Image from Golf Digest
Johnny Miller’s 1970s turtleneck and blazer combination was cutting-edge, providing a sleek yet sporty flair. It’s an appearance that combined relaxed comfort and refined form, ideal for an elegant day on the green. Miller’s attire was frequently complemented by fitted slacks, which enabled him to be regarded not only as a talented golfer but also as a daring fashionista.
10. Lee Trevino’s High Socks & Wide-Brimmed Hat (1970s-80s)
Image from Texas Golf Hall of Fame
Lee Trevino’s wide-brimmed hat and high socks were a signature look that was fashionable and practical. The hat helped to shield him from the sun, and the socks added a lighthearted, distinctive touch to his wardrobe. Trevino’s fashion celebrated the idea that golf could be functional and fun and differentiated him from the more conventional golfers of the day.
11. Gary Player’s Slim-Fit Trousers & Black Polo (1970s)
Image from eBay
Gary Player stood out for his fitness and dashing style, frequently wearing sleek, slim-fit pants and an understated black polo. Clean lines and plain style were the antithesis of his contemporaries’ garish, print-filled attire, showing his disciplined stance on the sport. The player’s style was contemporary, streamlined, and cool in a way that was effortless and inspiring, challenging a generation of golfers to dress with meaning and simplicity.
12. Chi-Chi Rodríguez’s Bold Prints (1970s-80s)
Image from Historic Golf Photos
Chi-Chi Rodríguez was famous for his flashy, colorful prints and designs on the green. He was among the earliest golfers to add style to his dress with Hawaiian-print shirts and flamboyant pants. His playfulness and confidence shone through in his fashion sense, making him a popular favorite of the sport and how he dressed.
13. Jack Nicklaus’ Argyle Sweater Vest (1970s)
Image from Free Press Journal
Nicklaus raised the bar in the ’70s with his legendary argyle sweater vest, marrying classic patterns with a chic, cutting-edge flair. Argyle brought an element of sophistication to the sport’s image, incorporating creativity with a touch of subtlety. His decision to don a patterned garment made him a fashion trendsetter, even in an age when clothing style was more conservative.
14. Tommy Armour’s Plaid Golf Pants (1920s-30s)
Image from Wikipedia
Tommy Armour was among the earliest players to wear plaid golf pants, which have since become associated with golf fashion in the early 20th century. The bold patterns, paired with a fitted jacket or polo, helped Armour stand out as a stylish and serious player. His sense of style helped bring the game’s public image into focus during the sport’s developmental years.
15. Rickie Fowler’s Orange Nike Outfit (2010s)
Image from PGA Tour
Rickie Fowler’s orange garb, his orange polo, and his coordinating cap became iconic during the 2010s. His use of a bold color stood out in a sea of more subdued colors, providing a welcome spin on golf fashion. Fowler’s style wasn’t merely about aesthetics—it symbolized a fresh, young energy that was transforming the way we perceived the sport.