Wear This Not That

Here's the deal, I just really don't like orange.  At least I try not to like it.  I am not supposed to like orange, as a Sooner.  (The whole anti-OSU, anti-Texas thing)  However, orange is one of the best color choices for golf course style.  It adds a bright, vibrant color that pops on the fairway.  It is a fantastic accent color, especially paired with electric blue, magenta or maroon.  In fact, the entire color pallet shown in the Puma Golf polos above is one of the best of the Spring 2013 season.  Puma Golf absolutely nails the use of orange.  This is most likely, influenced by the face of their brand, Rickie Fowler's loyalty to Oklahoma State, yet I have to suck it up and approve.  I even think the houndstooth design, shown top left, is agreeable if paired with white pants or shorts.You cannot go wrong with any of these four options.   

Now, you have a great shirt picked out.  Do not ruin it by making a poor selection in a pair of shorts or pants.  Each one of the polos above have enough color and pattern to allow you to stand out as stylish without needing to add more flare.  Simply, match each with pants of a solid color.  Going clockwise from top left, here are color options for each: white, orange, orange/maroon/magenta, and electric blue/orange/maroon/magenta.  Take a look at the examples below.  Both of these plaid Puma Golf shorts are really quite great, but only if worn with a solid color shirt.  The top would look fabulous with a white, orange or maroon polo and the ones on the bottom would pair well with an orange or magenta polo.  None of the four shirts shown here will work with plaid (or any other pattern) pants like the ones shown.
   

See there, I am an intelligent Sooner, willing to advise reasonably without holding a hateful bias against my rivals and their school colors.  However, truth be told, I still have zero orange in my closet and I refuse to eat orange M&Ms.  BOOMER SOONER.

Purchase one of these Puma Golf polos from Golf Smith now: http://www.golfgalaxy.com

Breaking Down Golf Fashion- 6 Looks on the Fairway

Some of you may have already read this post.  I wrote it a couple of months ago as a guest appearance on a friend's blog.  However, I received a lot of great feedback on it so I decided to share it on Fairway Threads, as well.  Seems people like it when you make fun of golfers.  All in good fun...enjoy!

Think all golfers look the same?  Just a bunch of guys in polos, plaid pants and Titleist hats?  Let’s access the world of golf apparel a little bit further.  Below are six looks usually represented on the golf course.  Some of them should be avoided at all cost, but I’ll let you decide which could work for you.

Statement: Dad Next Door - “I’m hopelessly clueless, yet don’t seem to mind.”

Who should wear: 40-year-olds and above who are going to the local course to pay $40 to play golf at twilight, or actual Dads who are getting dragged to church and therefore have to toss on something besides a t-shirt and jeans.

Tour Pro that wears: Matt Kuchar (no apparel sponsorship), Michael Thompson (Ashworth- Do not wear Ashworth guys)

The key pieces: Khaki pants, standard brown or braided belt, plain Foot Joy golf shoes, mismatched hat and the most ordinary polo shirt you can imagine.

Comment: You better hope you have a great personality and killer smile if you are going to be respected wearing this on the golf course.  Luckily, Kuchar has both, however, he is a professional athlete who knows he is going to be on TV and in front of hundreds of people on the course.  There is no excuse for not putting more thought into how apparel choices are doing nothing to increase brand acceptance. Kuchar needs an official apparel sponsorship to help with this…STAT.

Statement: Basically Boring - “Yet somehow we still have swagger.”

Who should wear: Anyone that has the confidence of George Clooney, and therefore feel they stand out enough without adding a little color into their closet. 

Tour Pro that wears: Dustin Johnson (adidas), Colt Knost (Callaway)

The key pieces: Navy (a lot of it…all over navy), black or white polos/pants/hat.  Little to no patterns.  Golfer often states, “Blue is a color.”

Comment: It’s not that this look is bad.  Often, the apparel these guys are wearing has good lines and looks great on the golfer.  It’s just …come on! Wear some color, try some patterns.  Cause me to stop and say “ooo I like that shirt.”  Somehow, guys wearing this look, especially the tour pros listed, still seem to have swagger and have no problem attracting lovely ladies.  However, this only leads them to think this style is ok, instead of experimenting with other looks.

Statement: Golf Fashion Huh? - “I’m just a working for a living.”

Who should wear: Generally those falling into this category are no-nonsense guys, a “super athlete”, a former baseball player, etc.  Most guys falling into this category just grab a shirt from the closet, toss on some pants, and head out to the range to warm up.  I don't think there is a lot of thought put into what they are going to wear to work that day.   

Tour Pro that wears: Tiger Woods (Nike Golf), William McGirt (adidas), Tommy Gainey (Callaway)

The key pieces: That is the whole point, there aren’t really any key pieces.  Except for Tiger on Sunday, but as long as his shirt is red and pants are black, he is good to go.

Comment: Every now and then these guys wear flattering colors or sharp polos, but don’t expect too much flare. 

Statement: Whoa Holy Color! – “No, really guys, I’m super trendy.”

Who should wear: As long as guys on the course aren’t wearing Loudmouth (John Daly’s hideous apparel) or an exact replica of Rickie Fowler’s official Sunday attire, I say if you can pull it off…bring it.

Tour Pro that wears: Rickie Fowler and, Jonas Blixt (Puma Golf), Graham DeLaet and Brian Gay (Sligo Wear)

The key pieces: Bright colors, wacky patterns, matching hats and shoes.  Cool hair doesn’t hurt either.

Comment: I am actually a fan of lots of bright colors and crazy fun patterns, IF it fits the golfer’s personality.  This look is fun and is the best “bang for the buck,” as far as, increasing brand awareness and helping guys stand out goes.

Statement: By the Book – “I’m a total nerd, but I am pretty sure no one notices.

Who should wear: Guys that think they can toss on a visor, rub shoulders with a few key people, and come out shining.  Although, this seems to work for these guys, so maybe you should all try it.

Tour Pro that wears: Keegan Bradley (Tommy Hilfiger), Phil Mickelson (Callaway), Charlie Beljan (A|U|R)

The key pieces: Umm Visor, basic preppy polo shirts and overpriced exotic belts.

Comment: I was always told, “You never trust a guy wearing a visor.”  I can verify this is a good plan of action.  Avoid wearing a visor and Tommy polos guys.  

Statement: Just Right – “Take notice, I’ve got this.”

Who should wear: Everyone.  That’s why it is called just right! Take your pick. 

Tour Pro that wears: Jimmy Walker (Iliac), Bo Van Pelt (Alial Fital), Graeme McDowell (Kartel by G-Mac)

The key pieces: High performance quality pieces oozing with unique character and delightful details that really make you stop and admire the craftsmanship of this look.  

Comment: Aside from Sligo, which I feel does an excellent job with their golf apparel design, the three companies listed here are, in my opinion, the best in golf.  The style is different because no detail is overlooked.  Luxury and performance are perfectly mixed. 

So, do you still think all golfers look the same?  The hardest sport in the world is the easiest to make a fashion statement during.  It can be done so well, or it can be totally butchered.  If you plan on spending the day on the golf course, take some of my tips and try to adjust your personal golf style.  Make note of how well you are received by the ladies at the 19^th hole afterward to see if you are on the right track! 

Wear This Not That

To begin, I am not a huge fan of plaid pants/shorts.  I tend to side with Happy Gilmore on this one.  Goofy pants have given golf a reputation for bad style.  However, plaid is an element of traditional golf apparel, and can be worn successfully if chosen well.

In the image above, I am comparing overall color palette not design.  Personally, I like the design of the Puma Golf Plaid Tech Pant ($90), shown above, better than the Nike Core Plaid Short ($70) below, however, there is a more important point here.  Guys, don't just grab a pair of pants/shorts and what you feel is a matching shirt and march to the checkout counter.  Think for a minute about the level of obnoxiousness your selection might give off.  The difference here between the options on the left and those on the right is the incorporation of a neutral color.  If you look closely, the Puma pants on the left have an electric blue pin stripe accent, however, black and white are dominant.  These pants would look great paired with an electric blue shirt.  The Nike Golf shorts to the left use gray as one of two dominant colors to balance out the coral.  In contrast, the choices on the right use two or more strong colors within the plaid.  I definitely think there are personality types, and situations that will allow for this type of boldness, I just feel strongly they are less common than the average weekend golfer realizes.  Rickie Fowler and Graham DeLaet need to stand out on the PGA Tour and grow their brand, as professionals.  What is your excuse?

To purchase any of the selections above visit: http://www.golfgalaxy.com  or visit your local golf equipment and apparel retailer. 

          

Wear This Not That

You can be rest assured this will not be the first time I say, "Do not wear stripes with plaids."  It should be obvious, but I see you guys.  You are still carelessly indulging in this fashion mistake.  Just promise not to do it again.  MmmK?

I really like the Nike Golf Plaid Short shown her in "fiberglass."  The plaid consists of white, olive, sea foam green and orange.  I am not always a huge fan of plaid shorts, but this design is so subtle that they are still fresh and classy.  You either go safe with this route or you go all the way in with the "crazy, sexy, cool" route in a pair of Sligo Wear or Puma shorts.  The Nike Golf Plaid Short retails for $70 and is available in four other colors, however, they do not all look as great as this option.  Buyer beware.

Now, let's talk about this shirt situation, spotted at Golf Galaxy.  Someone should have had to forfeit their lunch hour over this mess.  You do not pair stripes with plaids.  I almost re-did this display for them out of the kindness of my heart.  Not only is the classic stripped polo shown to the right, typical, boring and freaking orange, it simply clashes with those shorts.  Choose the Nike Fashion Chest Print Polo to the left instead.  It is a $70 investment that will keep you from looking like a fool.  The polo is white with an olive diagonal color block coming across the sea foam pocket.  It has a unique look and ties in perfectly with the shorts. 

Recap: Do not wear stripes with plaids.  I am counting the number of guys I see this weekend in attendance at the HP Byron Nelson Championships ignoring my advice.  Will keep you posted.  

Purchase these items at Golf Galaxy:  http://www.golfgalaxy.com

 

Up and Down- Players Championship

Look, before I start can we all just agree to remember I am talking about golf apparel.  I am not taking a stance on who is a better golfer or more deserving of a win this week, and by no means am I discussing who is more likable.  Topic at hand is who looked better on the fairway.  Though, can I just say, that if there was no drama in golf it would be so boring.  Most of the world already thinks it is boring anyway, so why are we complaining that Sergio adds some flare?  Speaking of... 

Up: Sergio Garcia in adidas Golf

For the Players Championship, adidas continued their reoccurring team concept, dressing each of their tour staff in the same attire for the tournament.  Now, we all may get tired of this move by the end of the season, but I for one am still loving it.  Aside from the genius marking and advertising strategy, the style has been fresh and on point.  Though Sergio isn't technically the only one I am giving my thumbs up to, he was the one we saw the most of, since he worked his way to the top of the leader board early in the week.  I was impressed with all four versions of the adidas 2013 Players Championship Polo.  The diagonal stripes and one off sleeve makes the look fun and interesting.  You can purchase one for under $65.  Just do it.  Sorry Nike, adidas wins this week...style award anyway.  

 

Down: Tiger Woods in Nike Golf

Listen, this will basically be my stance every week.  Tiger looks blah and boring almost every time he sets foot on the golf course.  Always has, always will.  Some would argue that is totally fine because he does not need his apparel to be unique, since being the best golfer in the world is unique enough.  Probably true, but he still gets a thumbs down from me today.  First of all, Tiger didn't wear pink all week.  Not even a ribbon.  Weak move.  Tiger has made it clear by his actions, many times over, that he does not have to go with the standard flow, but sometimes, it's the right thing to do.  Nike Golf should have made sure the face of their brand wore some pink this week.  Furthermore, take a look at the friendly little image below from Saturday's round.  The eye is drawn to Sergio, who looks vibrant and full of energy (yeah, yeah apparel not personality) and Tiger looks drab.  Then on Sunday, Tiger swung the pendulum over to gaudy as many were questioning if he had on freaking red velvet! I mean, that would be a new spin on his traditional Sunday uniform, but maybe a little much.  What's next?  Gold pinstripes in his black pants? 

Up Sergio. Down Tiger.  A very different result from the outcome of the actual golf portion of this week's tournament, but at least Sergio walks away with something.  I am sure it will not help him sleep tonight, but looking good is half the battle right?     

 

Purchase the adidas 2013 Players Championship Polo at Golf Circuit here: http://www.golfcircuit.com/Adidas-Golf-2013-Players-Championship-Polo/__5408.html

Wear This Not That

Greetings from Dallas! It is currently 81 degrees and sunny here in the Big D and it is not looking to get cooler anytime soon.  If you know anything about Texas, you know it is disgustingly hot here.  So...in other words...welcome to shorts weather boys! It may still be snowing where you are, but if nothing else this will give you something to look forward to. 

Remember how in elementary school, on tests they would put four pictures on a test and have you tell which one does not fit in?  This exercise is similar...go.  Pretty easy pick right?  Bottom right plaid shorts.  However, is that your pick for purchase?  I would advise no.  Move away from the plaid adidas shorts.  This particular option of dark plaid is the adidas CLIMALITE Neutral Plaid Short in Black and retails at $65.  It is not the worst pair of plaid shorts on the market by far, I just want to guide you to make better choices.  (My advice stops with your golf style...I cannot help you in the other areas you tend to struggle in.)  

As I will continue to mention, a little pattern and design is preferred, but it goes a long way.  Each of the remaining shorts shown above are all dark gray or black and have a nice attractive design.  Plain is boring by definition, so we try to steer clear of plain whenever possible.  Each of these shorts are made from moisture wicking or heat reflective material to keep you cool and are provided by high quality golf apparel companies, so you cannot screw this up.  In the top left corner you have the Nike Golf Stripe Short in gray, for purchase at $65.  Next, top right, is the Under Armour Embossed Flat Front Short in black at $75. Finally, in bottom left, you see the Oakley Stripe It Short in jet black.  This short retails at $70.

Now, go treat yourself to a fro-yo and a nice sleek new pair of golf shorts.  It's finally time for summer golf and relaxing on the patio afterward! Ahhhhh......

Purchase one of these options now at http://www.golfgalaxy.com or at other golf apparel distributors. 

Wear This Not That

Ok guys, let's face it.  Putting together a great looking outfit to head out of the house in, is not a skill that all of you possess.  Walking into a store and trying to decide what works and what doesn't can be painful.  Most of you just pull the first thing that strikes your eye off the shelf and dash out of the store.  This round of posts is meant to help educate you on some looks that can be worn in confidence, and to save you from purchasing items that should probably never be worn period. 

Let's take a look at white polos with a primary color of blue/turquoise and accents of gray and/or red.  The two shirts above are offered by Slazenger.  I have to be honest.  I don't immediately hate either one of them, but that is probably just because my favorite color is turquoise.  Most people are not going to be able to pull off such bold patterns.  I am a huge fan of both patterns and bright colors, however, you have to use in moderation in most cases.  The "Batley Polo" on the left is described as a "plaid print" shirt.  I would not call that plaid, rather bold streaks that form an awkward cross pattern.  Also, for the "Action Polo" on the right, is it houndstooth pattern, is it stars??   Both shirts retail at $60 and are made from a 100% polyester UV protection, wicking fabric.  

  
 As an alternative, Oakley has a couple of nice options available in the this style.  These two polos are similar to the versions mentioned previously, yet have less abrasive patterns.  While maintaining the same color palette, there is nothing screaming at you across the front of the shirt.  Both still provide an interesting design, instead of the traditional striped polo look.  The Oakley shirts are made from similar fabric to that of the Slazenger ones and are comparable in price at $65.  The option on the left is called the "Fade Polo" and the shirt on the right is the "Cross Cut Print."  Both are available for purchase at Golf Galaxy.  Check out these and other apparel selections at: http://www.golfgalaxy.com