It should come as no surprise that “golf core” styles are rapidly taking over our summer wardrobes. The quintessence of the country club is coming for your closet—even if no one’s actually hitting the fairway.

What Is “Golf Core”?
This trend has found itself a stroke above the rest, teeing off on social media and landing squarely in our everyday wardrobes. You don’t even have to own a set of clubs or know how to swing one to embrace “golf core.” The style is rooted in the clean lines and preppy traditions embraced in the sport. But, with a twist. It’s less about the actual sport itself and more about the aesthetic—think pleated skirts, pastel polos, collars, and sweaters—with the perfect amount of irony.

This Isn’t Your Grandpa’s Country Club Couture
Your old man may have donned the tucked polo, argyle sweater, and stiff slacks, but today’s “golf core” is swinging in a different direction.

The trend opts to reimagine the vintage style by adding modern touches. New trendsetters aren’t leaning into the awkward bermuda shorts and transparent visors. Instead, basic staples such as classic sneakers and statement sunglasses are being paired with solid colors and pinstripes.

While the aesthetic pays homage to tradition, it’s no longer about blending in. It’s about standing out on the sidewalk, at brunch or even scrolling through your feed.

“Golf core” might nod to the past, but it’s firmly rooted in the now—and it knows exactly how to dress for it.

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Timeless brands such as Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines, L.L. Bean, and J. Crew are tapping into this new clientele, namely, the younger generations who are dressed to the nines.

No Membership Required
While golf was once adjacent with cliche dress codes and clubhouses, today’s interpretation is much more inclusive.

“Golf core” isn’t just about sport-inspired aesthetics. It’s about an aspirational lifestyle—one that radiates casual luxury, leisure, and a spritz of exclusivity. Whether worn earnestly or with a subtle wink, “golf core” is proving that style is less about making par and more about channeling the role.

It opts to reclaim a once-exclusive space, one that was reserved for elites with trust funds, and redefine it through a sense of universality. It subtly critiques the country club culture by making it accessible for a broader audience—you don’t have to make six figures to embrace the classy look.

‍Accessories That Score
“Golf core” goes beyond just the outfit. You can find everyday casual wear or even elevated accessories taking cues from the course—think tote bags, sporty socks, or a dainty tennis necklace that screams quiet luxury without trying too hard.

Whether you’re running errands or grabbing an iced coffee, the added golf aesthetic makes your look feel intentional—even if a tee time isn’t on your calendar.

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The subtlety of “golf core” is creeping into some of the most unexpected markets. Totally unrelated products have added a golf-themed flair to their branding, packaging, and design, proving just how deep the trend is driving.

Owala, a top water bottle brand, created a limited edition, "Fairways for Days," which features a white, golf-ball textured tumbler. It sold out in the first few hours of being available online.

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Abercrombie & Fitch, a collegiate-inspired casualwear brand, dropped a line of golf-inspired hoodies and tees.

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Shop the Look
No tee time required—just a sharp eye for polish and play. From sport-inspired to classy pieces, here is where you can build your “golf core” wardrobe either online or from local downtown shops:

• Gliks’s Golf Wives Social Club Trucker Hat for Women in Green/Tan
• Free People Women’s Grand Slam Dress
• Primo Men’s Light Khaki Golf Shorts

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Fairway Fits, Tee Time Required
“Golf core” isn’t just a polaroid picture captured on the course. It’s showing up in real life, even in our hometown of Holland, where summer style is vibrant, breezy, and polished. Whether you choose to stroll downtown or lounge at the lake, the aesthetic has slipped off the course and into everyday wear. Although, if you’re feeling inspired to go straight to the source, there are a series of beautiful golf courses in the area.

Macatawa Golf Club, nestled by the lakeshore, offers a pristine backdrop for the ideal golf experience. It features a well-maintained, 18-hole championship course designed by Ray Hearn. With rolling fairways, large rolling greens, and scenic water features, it offers a challenge for seasoned golfers while remaining accessible to all skill levels.

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The Ravines Golf Club, located in Saugatuck, is an Arnold Palmer signature championship course that weaves through dense woodlands, rolling hills, and wetlands. It’s known for its wide fairways, strategic sand pits, and dramatic ravine waters. If you want to show off your outfit for the gram, this visually opaque course will offer a translucent green backdrop.

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More than a Trend, It’s a Mindset
This trend isn’t just centered around clothes. It’s about how we reimagine tradition, bend the rules, and bring a tidbit of luxury into the everyday scene. What began as a niche aesthetic has expanded into a movement—one that fuses a cliche with modern flair and exclusivity with accessibility.

Whether you’re layering an argyle sweater over your shoulders for irony or genuinely wearing that pleated skirt, “golf core” allows you to channel the aesthetic.

It’s refined and cheeky enough not to take itself too seriously.

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So, even if you’ve never stepped foot on a course, you’re probably in good company. After all, everyone’s dressed for tee time—but no one’s really playing.