Donald Ross didn’t just design golf courses—he crafted enduring environments rooted in strategy, tradition, and quiet sophistication. From the crowned greens of Pinehurst No. 2 to the windswept coast of Seminole, each course tells a story of purpose and restraint.
If you’re inspired by the spirit of Ross—whether playing one of his championship designs or simply dressing with that same sense of intention—your golf wear can echo the values that define his work: subtlety, refinement, and timeless style. Here’s how to channel the character of five iconic Ross courses through the lens of thoughtful golf attire.
Men’s Golf Course Fashion Philosophy: Classic With a Purpose
Stepping onto a Donald Ross golf course is more than a round of golf—it’s an encounter with heritage. These courses demand respect, not just in play, but in presence. While clubs set their own standards for attire, the most compelling golf style doesn’t follow rules so much as it honors the spirit of the game.
For the modern golfer, that means dressing in golf attire with purpose. Think of it not as a uniform, but as a quiet acknowledgment of the game’s history—subtle, composed, and above all, appropriate for the course in front of you.
Course-by-Course Style Inspiration
From coastal breezes to upstate refinement, each Donald Ross golf course offers more than just a setting—it offers a style cue. Below are five of his most iconic designs and the fashion sensibilities they evoke.
1. Pinehurst No. 2 – Southern Sophistication
With its crowned greens and sandy waste areas, Pinehurst No. 2 brings together Southern charm and understated brilliance. The North Carolina warmth invites lighter colors and breathable textures—perhaps a pastel golf or a crisp cream shirt paired with khaki slacks. A woven belt, classic golf shoes, and maybe a straw hat nod to the resort's timeless appeal. It’s a place where formality meets ease, and your look can reflect that quiet grace.
2. Seminole Golf Club – Coastal Elegance
Perched on the Atlantic and steeped in tradition, Seminole whispers refinement. Imagine soft whites, pale navy, or sand-toned pieces that blend effortlessly with sea and sky. A tailored polo with sharp Bermuda shorts, a fine belt, and a structured cap might suit the atmosphere here—refined, relaxed, and unmistakably classic.
3. Oakland Hills (South Course) – Midwest Majesty
This is a course that reveres history—and the look here can follow suit. Richer tones and elevated fabrics like fine knits or wool blends wouldn’t feel out of place. Perhaps a traditional collared polo in a deep hue, clean-cut trousers, and leather golf shoes to anchor the ensemble. On cooler days, a lightweight sweater or even a soft-shouldered sport coat in the clubhouse would strike just the right balance of formality and warmth.
4. Oak Hill (East Course) – Upstate Tradition
Set amid rolling trees and championship lore, Oak Hill leans toward a quieter kind of polish. You might reach for subtle neutrals—gray, navy, olive—and think in terms of function layered with form. A mock neck or collared shirt under a quarter-zip, paired with tailored trousers, offers structure without stiffness. The result: composed, weather-conscious, and entirely in tune with the surroundings.
5. East Lake Golf Club – Atlanta Prestige
East Lake celebrates both history and evolution. It’s a place where traditional style lives comfortably alongside discreet modern updates. You might consider a crisp striped golf polo with flat-front slacks, finished with athletic-cut golf shoes and a nod to vintage in the form of a flat cap or retro-inspired belt. Here, small touches of individuality are welcome—as long as the silhouette remains clean and unmistakably golf.
Styles That May Not Suit a Donald Ross Course
Across Donald Ross’s most iconic designs, one principle remains constant: golf is a game of respect—and your attire should reflect that. While each club has its own dress code, there’s a shared expectation of polish, tradition, and purpose.
To align with the spirit of these courses, certain styles are best left for other settings:
- Denim of any kind, including jeans, and jean shorts
- T-shirts, tank tops, or sweatshirts (unless golf-branded outerwear)
- Cargo shorts, running shorts, cutoffs, or gym/athleisure wear
- Shorts shorter than mid-thigh or 6” inseam
- Streetwear-style hoodies, sweats, or any outfit not specifically designed for golf
- Sandals or flip-flops
The goal isn’t to follow rules for the sake of it—it’s to dress in a way that complements the course’s history and enhances the experience, both for you and those around you.
Dress the Part With Donald Ross Sportswear
When you step onto a Donald Ross golf course, you’re walking into golf history. Every hole reflects intentional design, quiet challenge, and lasting elegance—and your attire should reflect that same legacy. At Donald Ross Sportswear, we create apparel and accessories that honor tradition while embracing modern performance.
Our collection features performance polos, tailored slacks, refined layers, and carefully crafted accessories—all designed to meet the expectations of the game’s most storied venues. With a focus on timeless style and course-ready comfort, our pieces help you look and feel your best from the first tee to the final green.
Whether you’re heading to Pinehurst, Seminole, or your local club, dress with purpose. Dress with history. Dress in Donald Ross.
References:
- Pinehurst 1895. Playing at Pinehurst.
- Oakland Hills Country Club. Club Rules and Notes for Guests.
- East Lake Golf Club. Guest Information.