When you think about modern women’s golf attire, it’s hard to ignore the rise of the skort. These days, skorts have become a go-to choice for female golfers, offering a winning combination of style, versatility, and comfort. But they haven’t always been this popular. Buckle up, let’s explore the history of golf skorts and see how they’ve evolved into the must-have piece for women on the course.
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Where It All Began
Spanish tennis player Lili de Alvarez shows off her divided skirt at the North London Tennis Tournament in Highbury, London. Fox Photos/ Getty Images
Believe it or not, skorts were originally known as “trouser skirts.” Their primary goal was simple: to give women more freedom of movement while maintaining the appearance of a skirt. In the early 20th century, women wanted to engage in more activities like bike riding, hiking, and, of course, sports like golf. But long, restrictive skirts made that difficult. The idea of combining shorts with a skirt wasn’t just convenient—it was revolutionary.
In 1959, Montgomery Ward claimed to have invented the first skort. Their Spring/Summer catalog introduced a short, pleated skirt with bloomers attached underneath. Over the years, this design evolved, and the term “skort” became associated with shorts covered by a fabric flap, giving the illusion of a skirt.
Skorts gave women the best of both worlds: the feminine appeal of a skirt paired with the functionality of shorts. They became an ideal choice for various activities, including walking, tennis, hockey, and golf, where comfort and modesty were key concerns.
A Skort’s Tennis Debut
The skort didn’t just take off in golf; its history in sports dates back to 1931, when Spanish tennis player Lilí Álvarez made waves at Wimbledon by wearing a pair of culottes. These culottes were shaped to resemble a skirt, making Álvarez the first notable athlete to introduce skort-like attire in a major sporting event. This early adoption in tennis paved the way for other sports, including golf, where the need for both freedom of movement and style became increasingly important.
From Corsets to Comfort: The Shift in Women’s Golf Fashion
Women’s golf fashion has come a long way. Early golf attire for women included long, corseted skirts and high-necked blouses—better suited for a social gathering than a day on the course. As the game became more accessible for women, these outfits gradually shifted to high-waisted trousers and tailored jackets. But while more functional than corseted dresses, these outfits still didn’t offer the comfort needed for an active game like golf.
In more recent years, golf skorts began to rise in popularity, with shorter lengths, softer fabrics, and built-in shorts. These updates made skorts a practical and stylish choice, offering female golfers the freedom to move without compromising on their look.
Skorts Hit the Golf Scene
While athletes in sports like hockey, netball, and tennis were among the first to embrace skorts, it didn’t take long for golfers to follow suit. Women’s golf skorts quickly gained popularity, providing not only comfort but also a flattering, practical look for the course. The attached shorts underneath eliminated concerns about modesty, allowing golfers to focus on their game without worrying about bending down for a putt or chasing after a ball.
This functionality combined with style made skorts a must-have in women’s golf fashion. Whether driving off the tee or walking the course, a well-designed golf skort allows for smooth movement, adding both performance and flair to a golfer’s wardrobe.
Skorts Today: Fashion Meets Function
Image from Fairmonde Golf
Fast forward to today, and skorts are no longer just about practicality—they’re also a major fashion statement. Modern golf skorts come in a dazzling array of colors, patterns, and designs, allowing women golfers to express their style and personality on the course. From sleek, minimalistic looks to bold prints and ruffles, there’s a skort for everyone.
Brands like Lululemon, Fairmonde Golf, and Callaway have fully embraced the skort trend, offering innovative designs that blend performance with elegance. For instance, Fairmonde Golf’s Verve Side-Pleated Skort is beloved by female golfers, for its moisture-wicking fabric, chic pleats, and built-in shorts that provide full coverage and support during a round of golf.
The variety of skorts available today means that golfers don’t have to sacrifice fashion for functionality. Whether you prefer high-waisted styles, asymmetrical hems, or bold geometric patterns, skorts offer a chance to stand out while staying comfortable.
Why Golfers Love Skorts
So why have skorts become such a hit in the golf world? It’s simple: they combine the feminine look of a skirt with the practical benefits of shorts. This duality gives female golfers the freedom to move around the course with ease, while also maintaining a stylish appearance. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, skorts offer a perfect balance of comfort and fashion.
And, skorts cater to a wide range of preferences, from lightweight materials ideal for warm summer rounds to more structured designs that add a polished touch. While some golfers still favor shorts or capris, the growing popularity of skorts is undeniable—especially as skirts in general have become shorter and more fashion-forward.
The Future of Golf Skorts for Women
The evolution of golf skorts is far from over. With advancements in fabric technology and a continued focus on inclusivity, we’re likely to see even more innovation in the future. Expect skorts made from more sustainable materials, more flattering designs that accommodate diverse body types, and high-performance features tailored to the needs of modern female golfers.
Ultimately, skorts have proven they’re here to stay—on and off the course. Whether you’re hitting the links, running errands, or simply enjoying a casual day out, this versatile garment offers the perfect mix of fashion and function, letting you feel confident, dapper, and comfortable no matter where the day takes you.
