3 reasons why her look wins the day

In the world of golf fashion, there is a short list of professionals who you can describe as tragically knowledgeable.

Tiger Woods, once synonymous with Nike, and now wearing his own Sun Day Red, and Adam Scott, who has worn Uniqlo since 2013, have been polished and traditional on the course, wearing well-crafted earth tones and flattering neutrals . .

Billy Horschel, Ralph Lauren’s longtime partner, took a few risks during his career – remember the famous octopus pants? – but has made a name for herself as a fashionista by mixing classic basics with trendy colors and prints with aplomb.

In recent years, Rory McIlroy has made huge gains with on-course style. Part of that is just McIlroy growing up. It’s easy to forget that he was only 18 years old when he became champion in 2007. Now, he is 35, a husband and a father, and his clothes have matured with him.

Nike, the brand McIlroy has worn since 2013, is famous for not backing it up when it comes to apparel, and Nike athletes sport it from head to toe. This goal alone lifts the clothes; they are clean, they never quarrel, they are not busy. McIlroy also embraces new trends and silhouettes that other golfers in the lineup don’t, such as European, slim-fit tailoring.

While watching the opening round at Pinehurst No. 2 on Thursday, McIlroy has clearly won the fashion award for Round 1. His look is simple, but it offers important lessons in golf attire:

1. Matching the hat and shoes

A white hat and white shoes combination is always unbeatable. Follow that template, and you can wear pretty much anything you want in between. You will still look put together.

2. Bright solids are present the winners

McIlroy’s polo came completely off the screen. The color – orangey-melon – is very visible without being too bright. The fit is good – not tight, the sleeve length is just cut above the elbow. I love pairing it with navy pants – it adds a freshness to an ensemble that would otherwise be lost in black, gray or khaki. Also, the slim, tapered pants look sporty and well-tailored, flattering McIlroy’s body type.

3. Belts are important!

McIlroy’s woven belt is trendy and cool but not the main focus of this outfit. Instead, it blends seamlessly with the pants, but adds a cool texture and depth to the close-up. Woven, woven belt styles often look great with work fabrics, and this one is no different.

McIlroy’s clothing embodies everything I love about men’s golf fashion: it’s fresh, trendy (not hot!) and fits well. Check out Rory McIlroy’s US Open outfit for Thursday below, all available on Nike’s website. You can click the links to buy now.

Nike Dri-FIT Rise Structured Snapback Cap

$28

Designed for the gym, work and anywhere in between, the Nike Dri-FIT Rise Cap is ready for all-day wear.

buy now

Nike Dri-FIT Tour Men’s Solid Golf Polo

$75

Our durable Tour Polo is all about consistency, with a stretchy, sweat-wicking feel that helps you get the most out of your swing.

buy now

Nike Stretch Woven Strap

$55

The knit fabric features stretch to help you move smoothly through every swing.

buy now

Nike Tour Repel Flex Men’s Slim Golf Pants

$100

A slim fit and fabric with a smooth, stretchy feel help give you the confidence to skate your best.

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Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 NRG

$210

The breathable fabric on the top helps you stay cool and comfortable when walking on tall grass.

buy now

Golf.com Editor

As a four-year member of Columbia’s inaugural class of women’s varsity golfers, Jessica knows how to beat everyone on the golf course. He can pass them through the office, too, where he is primarily responsible for producing both print and online features, and overseeing major special projects, such as GOLF’s first Style Issue, which began in February 2018. His first interview series, “A Round With,” released in November 2015, and appeared in both magazine and video form on GOLF.com.