Abby Parsons’ wardrobe is a testament to the shift in women’s golf fashion. As the head golf professional at Pinnacle Peak Country Club in Scottsdale, Parsons has witnessed firsthand the dramatic transformation of golf apparel for women. Her closet is now filled with stylish, trendy pieces that easily transition from the golf course to everyday life.
“I always joked I have every man’s dream closet,” Parsons says with a smile, “and now it’s moving towards having every woman’s dream closet.”
Gone are the days of unflattering, basic golf outfits. Women’s golf attire has undergone a complete overhaul, embracing a more modern, flattering look, and professionals like Parsons are thrilled to see this change. At the PGA Show earlier this year, Parsons was excited by the number of women-owned golf brands emerging, such as Fore All, which won ‘Best in Show’ at the PGA Buyers and Education Summit the previous year. She and her club’s buyer were like kids in a candy store, eager to explore the many new options available.
Today, Parsons says she frequently sees members at her club sporting pieces from small, boutique brands—stylish golf sweaters and knit patterns that are a far cry from the outdated golf attire of yesteryear. She finds herself often asking, “Where did you get that?”
“The PGA Show had so many women’s brands and boutiques, and we were trying to decide which ones to choose—we wanted to buy everything from everyone,” Parsons explains. “It’s rare to walk into a space and be able to say, ‘I want everything,’ but 10 years ago, there was literally nothing you wanted.”
As the LPGA Tour celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, it’s clear that women’s golf fashion has come a long way. However, the biggest changes have occurred within the last decade. A significant shift toward athleisure has transformed the sport’s wardrobe, which Parsons views as a positive development. Not only do these modern styles look better, but they also enhance performance. Athleisure, she notes, allows for a more fluid golf swing compared to the stiff khakis of the past.
“Right now, I’m at work wearing Jordan golf shoes, Puma joggers, and a Nike golf shirt. I probably don’t look like what most people expect from a golf professional,” Parsons admits. “But on the LPGA Tour, many players are using their clothes to make statements. For example, look at Charley Hull’s outfits with Malbon—she’s rocking some amazing styles that make people want to watch and say, ‘What’s Charley going to wear today?’ It’s fascinating.”
A decade ago, women’s golf shops offered limited choices, but today’s landscape is vastly different. Parsons credits this change to the rise of women-owned boutiques and smaller golf brands that cater to a more modern aesthetic.
“We’re seeing so many more women-led golf brands because the founders are saying, ‘I want to wear what I like, not just what’s available.’ Fifteen years ago, shopping for women’s golf clothes was a hassle—you wore whatever you had to. Now, women can find clothes that are cool, stylish, and attractive, not just collared shirts and skorts,” Parsons explains.
While new brands are making waves, legacy brands like Nike and Puma are also staying ahead of the curve by offering stylish, functional designs. Parsons praises Nike for their simple yet chic pieces, like the ones worn by LPGA star Nelly Korda. “The fits are made for women,” she adds.
An added benefit of modern golf apparel is its versatility. Many golf clothes now double as lifestyle wear, making them a worthwhile investment. Parsons notes that golf shops are increasingly transforming into lifestyle stores, offering pieces that can easily be worn beyond the course.
“A lot of golf shops are turning into lifestyle shops,” Parsons says. “These pieces have multiple uses, so you feel like you’re getting more value for your money. In the past, you’d buy a golf shirt and it was only for golfing.”
Women’s golf fashion has truly evolved. The days of limiting attire choices are long gone, and today’s golfers are embracing style, comfort, and functionality like never before. The changes in the industry reflect the growing recognition of women’s presence in the sport, making golf not just about the game, but about expressing individuality through fashion.
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