Ladies, we’ve finally made it past the era of golf apparel companies making women's shirts that are mirror images of the men’s, but slightly smaller. Companies like Cutter & Buck estimate that 50% of their new items will be women's wear; lululemon (the trendiest name in yoga) is branching into golf and tennis wear; and the record number of women taking to the greens indicates that things can only get better from here!  We've listed what we think are the top three trends for 2005 below.

Trends:

1. Bermuda shorts

One of best trends off the street for summer – Bermuda shorts – is also a great option for the golf course. These great shorts hit just above the knee which ensures they will be accepted at most clubs, and will keep you nice and cool during your round. Colours like black, beige, grey and white match almost any top you can pair them with.

Cutter & Buck has a nice pair of Bermuda shorts in its Annika Sorenstam line, or you can pick up a nice pair from a retail store and wear them next time you tee off.

2. Bold colours, form fitting clothing

In a huge departure from the male-centric golf fashion industry, big, bold colours are very trendy for ladieswear this summer. Lija carries a particularly strong line of women’s clothing in red, blue, green, pink, and best of all, the designer is a Canadian named Linda Hipp! This is clothing you can comfortably wear on and off the course, with big buttons, shorter skorts and flattering silhouettes. The Wind collection appeals to the woman who likes a more extreme, European look. Fire, Earth and Water follow a more elegant, sporty line.

Jamie Sadock has a very popular line of golf and resort wear, with clothes that are shorter and tighter than you may be used to seeing on the golf course. A lot of her items double as tennis wear, as well, so if you play both, you’ll have twice as many occasions to show off your style!


3. Women on Tour

Women can be more adventurous with golf shirts and bottoms; probably because we can nearly always be trusted to choose tasteful, stylish clothing. If you are looking for some inspiration the next time you’re shopping, think of our customer care manager, who loves her dark navy shoes with light blue accents and even has golf balls to match! Embrace your options and you will enjoy your golf round from the moment you dress until long after your visit to the 19th hole has ended.

*Photo credit for the Lija Photos go to: Paige Birnie / Lija.

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