STYLE TO A TEE: TEAM USA RYDER CUP UNIS

Whether good or bad, Ryder Cup fashions always seem to spark discussion among golf fans. And this year is no exception. Team USA will try to defend their title when they hit the green at Celtic Manor in Wales this weekend. Here’s the scoop on what they’ll be wearing and why they’ll be turning heads:

“Old school,” “retro,” and “vintage” are terms that have been used pretty consistently with regards to this year’s uniforms. A Glam Slam is also going to toss “classic elegance” into the mix. Lisa Pavin, wife of Ryder Cup Captain Corey Pavin, handled the styling and selection of the team apparel in collaboration with designers Peter Millar and Hickey Freeman. The uniforms, which were inspired by iconic golfers such as Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson, are meant to honor and respect the heritage of the sport. 

 

The gear for Saturday’s matches seems to be causing the greatest fashion buzz. The combination of a cashmere cardigan, dress shirt and dark pinstripe trousers evoke a classic feel with a contemporary twist.

The comparisons to both Mister Rogers and Graeme McDowell have been endless. Mister Rogers immortalized the men's cardigan and the Irish golfer made the “v-neck, button-down, slim-fitting sweater” cool again, when he wore one during this year's U.S. Open. It’s great to see the Ryder Cup unis embrace this cardi comeback, but it’s the “cornflower” hue that is a bit questionable. “Cornflower,” which closely resembles lavender, is a color that can be difficult to pull off. While it could look great on one guy, it might be too bold of a fashion statement when worn by the entire team.

The rest of the uniform includes a preppy red crest featuring the Ryder Cup Trophy, prominently displayed on the left breast. A crisp white dress shirt and charcoal pinstripe pants top off the ensemble. While the traditional red, white and blue hues are noticeably absent, the overall look is definitely unique and special, adding a bit of glamour to the game's on-course fashions.

 

The Sunday singles outfit is a showstopper from head-to-toe. A "blackout" look is complimented by subtle touches of patriotism, including a red, white and blue striped belt, and red zipper and ribbon detailing around the neck. Sleek. Clean. Snazzy.

 

 

It’s actually the gear from the practice rounds that scores the most style points from A Glam Slam. More terrific trousers were paired with argyle sweater vests, half zip sweaters and striped dress shirts. The red, white and blue hues are definitely dominant here, but utilized in a very tasteful way. And the mixture of patterns up top combined with lightly-colored bottoms, adds a sharp, modern touch.

 

There's no doubt that golf enthusiasts will have a wide range of opinions, especially regarding the lavender cardigan. But before you play fashion police and knock the new unis, take a look at some previous Team USA Ryder Cup fashions. “Cornflower” doesn’t seem so bad now, does it?

 

 - Glam Gal - 

Comments

[Ottawa Golf Blog]

When you look at some of the old USA uniforms this years apparel is certainly an upgrade. Although a few items I could do without.
It's also interesting no one seems to be talking about what Europe is wearing.