The Khaki Crusader

We're expanding...

2010-02-08T08:42:00.003-05:00

I'm very pleased to announce that, after a great year, the KC is expanding. I have taken on a new team member in Annmarie Dodd, longtime fashion editor at Golf Digest/Golf World.

Annmarie and I have spent countless hours building a new site and determining the course of action necessary to make the Khaki Crusader the online destination for golf style news, discussion and inspiration.

We hope you'll enjoy the work we've put in - the new site should be up any day now. Thank you all for your support and your readership!

-Sean

Weekend Inspirations

2010-02-06T10:45:00.005-05:00

(Photos sourced from a variety of sites and are the sole property of golfissimo, Getty Images, J. Lindeberg, The Round Hill Club and TIME Magazine)

-KC

RLX Fall 2010 - Setting the Bar

2010-02-04T08:59:00.005-05:00

Quick run down...

1) The gray tones of RLX Fall 2010 are sophisticated, clean and very modern. Inspiration was taken from the maverick attitude and sleek lines of the clubhouse at the Bridge in Bridgehampton, NY.

2) Featured items in the line include numerous twists on heritage pieces. They include: a Fair Isle sweater, sleeveless birds-eye cardigan, jersey windowpane vest and a shadow-plaid rain suit.

3) This photo is for the commenters here, who said a plus-four could not be done in a cool way. The down vest is techy enough to keep the look modern and the pant is cut slim - the scarf an unexpected addition. In my opinion, the guy with the plus-fours is the coolest mannequin in there...

4) A late-spring/Father's day package takes a lighter approach - tech-piques in pastels with white and lighter gray trousers...

5) Outerwear as art... (L to R) Rotator, Elude, Connex

-Sean Hotchkiss

Sven-Olof Karlsson From Abacus Chats With The KC...

2010-02-02T17:39:00.012-05:00

Abacus Golf was a highly-anticipated Swedish import at this year's PGA Show in Orlando. The company, known for its colorful outerwear and Nordic styling, is making its US debut in 2010 through a partnership with Caulfield Apparel Group, after a year of establishing a presence in Canada. Abacus is led by Managing Director Sven-Olof Karlsson, who sat with the KC to answer a few questions...

KC: I was, personally, very impressed with my initial exposure to Abacus clothing, because it's clearly a sporty lifestyle brand that happens to cater to golfers. What was the inspiration and the story behind starting the company in 1991 and how has that inspiration evolved?

SOK: Sven and Ingrid, who started the Abacus company, felt that there was a gap in the market of functional, good-looking clothes, and that you, at that time, had to choose between either design or function. Functionality was either poor or heavy or made for skiing or sailing. With newer, better and lighter fabrics being developed, they saw the opportunity to make more effective technical clothing that was suitable for golf, and to combine that with a sporty, fashion-orientated look. The original thought from the beginning was to make functional clothing with a good design in excellent quality, which is still the Abacus core idea.

KC: Many folks in the US won't be familiar with Abacus (hopefully after the PGA Show in January this will change) but what can you tell them briefly about Abacus' philosophy behind the clothing? Who is an Abacus customer?

SOK: Abacus' philosophy is to create a sporty and fashionable lifestyle on the golf course. We combine function and design into coordinated outfits for both on-and off-course use. The collection is based around a layer-on-layer ideal, with fabrics in lightweight and stretch materials... It is an [informed] and smart style of dress...

The Abacus customer is an active person living an active lifestyle; someone who likes to dress sporty and stylish and can use Abacus clothes in all occasions, both on the golf course and in their everyday lives...

KC: The styling and the photography on the website are unique in the way that we, in America, rarely think of scarves, layers and varying textures when it comes to golf clothing. What would you tell someone about the practicality of wearing items they might reserve for off the course, on to the course and how it might benefit their enjoyment?

SOK: Golf is changing and Abacus is part of the change. Golf is now, more than ever, respected as a sport that demands functional clothing. When wearing clothes that fit and make you look good, you feel good and comfortable. When we say that the Abacus collection is made for both on and off course, we mean that you can wear your favorite items on the golf course as well as off course, and that our clothes work well for playing golf, but they don’t necessarily need to look like typical golf items with a traditional golf style. You can be well dressed for golf coming directly from work without changing clothes.

We like to think of us being part of making new ideas and making a change in order to welcome fashion, sportswear and lifestyle into the golfwear market and making it more interesting and at the same time creating fashion worn off the golf course that comes from the golf world...

KC: I see more and more parallels between skiing and golf outerwear in terms of weatherproofing against the elements, the articulation and movement and the materials and equipment design - also many connections exist between companies doing ski and golfwear like Lindeberg, RLX, Peak Performance... Looking at some of the photos on the website and coming from Sweden, does the whole ski town/resort town feel inspire the design of Abacus?

SOK: Skiwear and sportswear are inspirations as well as [high-street] fashion, and many of the Abacus functional wear, fabrics etc. that we use are also used in the sportswear industry. We are looking at action sports based on Scandinavian nature. It can be from the snow world, but as much inspiration comes from the sea and mountains. Practical ideas, a healthy lifestyle, activity and sporty touch are inspiring us to bring these elements to the golf course and to a leisure lifestyle. The latest development of functional fabrics with lighter weight and/or stretch are making new ideas possible on the golf course.

KC: I'm really into educating American golfers on proper fit. Describe the philosophy behind "fit" at Abacus...

"Fit" for fashion and "fit" for golf have been two different ideas, but they are indeed very similar. Oversize is not working in fashion and actually not necessary in golf. A nice silhouette is important for look, but also important for performance in golf - you just need more stretchy and lightweight fabrics. In the past, we've had to deal with heavy fabrics without stretch and companies have needed to make both polo shirts and waterproof jackets oversized to allow movement. This is no longer the case. Abacus thinks: create a look you can be proud of, but feeling practical and comfortable on the golf course is paramount.

KC: Do you guys have any plans to have USPGA Tour players wearing Abacus anytime soon?

SOK: Yes, we do. We started, from the SBS, to be represented by Richard S. Johnson.

KC: What is a favorite item from the Abacus collection that a new customer should absolutely own??

SOK: Our "Pitch" rain jacket. It has outstanding outerwear properties in all weather: Heavy rain, storm, cold, early mornings, evenings, grey, cloudy days or anything that is not warm sunshine. It features fantastic stretch, unique breathability, it is quiet, lightweight and of course, waterproof...

-Sean Hotchkiss

Special thanks to Shane Brett

The Boss Weekend?

2010-02-02T11:39:00.010-05:00

(Photo of Ben Crane the sole property of Getty Images)

As Hugo Boss' Green Label makes its re-entry into the American golf market, they couldn't have asked for a better few days...

After being one of the most talked about items at the PGA Merchandise Show - their first since 2002 - Ben Crane added an exclamation point with a victory at Torrey Pines on Sunday wearing the collection. Crane was an off-season acquisition for the German brand, who also picked up 2-time Tour winner Nick Watney.

Team KC swung by the Hugo Boss booth on Thursday morning and previewed the fall offerings. We left with a few noteworthy morsels:

- One of HB's plans is to offer totally seamless offerings to the US and EU markets - if you see Henrik Stenson in a Euro Tour event wearing a golf shirt or trousers from the brand - odds are, you won't have any trouble finding it on US shelves... This makes consumers very happy.

- The Green Label strives to create that perception as a 'fashion' line that happens to be golf-friendly, in the sense that all of the items could easily be worn as street/casual wear, but happen to be in the "golf" collection. It's all about transitional pieces these days and everyone is talking about how to get guys from the first tee to the clubhouse to the town in the same garment. It's challenging, but fun and Hugo Boss is looking towards that kind of inspiration with emphasis on pieces like stylish outerwear, colorful polos and soft-spike golf shoes that look just as appropriate in Soho as they do at St. Andrews. Hugo Boss, as brands like J. Lindeberg have done in the past, offers shirts with a Tour distinction (which carry larger TV-friendly logos) to accompany their more traditional and subtly-branded polo shirts.

- Additionally, Hugo Boss is offering their first women's collection - and while it appears a fairly safe introductory entry into the market, it's a much-anticipated designer brand that enhances the ladies golf fashion scope and offers a lot of potential for future development...

Look for Hugo Boss making appearances on more US shelves this summer. Of course, you can also purchase at TrendyGolf and other online retailers.

-KC

Red, White and Who Knew?

2010-02-01T11:14:00.006-05:00

Now for Peter Millar’s big We’ve Arrived moment: execs from the nine-year-old line, based in North Carolina, say they've been asked to dress the 2010 U.S. Ryder Cup team.

Captain Corey Pavin reportedly selected Peter Millar’s creative director, Chris Knott, and his design staff, to create Team USA’s signature look for the event, Oct. 1-3 at The Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Wales. The team has not yet been named, but those scoring high in the points needed to get them on the team include Lucas Glover, Stewart Cink, Tiger Woods, Ben Crane, Phil Mickelson and Ryan Palmer.

Peter Millar is known playing vibrant color off very traditional men's wear patterns (those they dress on PGA Tour include Steve Stricker, Aaron Oberholser and Troy Matteson). They’re also known for their huge line of cashmere sweaters. Knott is one of those Southern Gentleman who never appears in public without every stitch in place … and a pocket square to match! We’d love to see some luxe layers on Team USA set against the Welsh landscape.

What a huge honor and everyone we know at Peter Millar was so excited when we spoke with them last week at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.

Team USA will wear, we hear, Hickey Freeman tailored clothing to Ryder Cup formal engagements. Nike Golf, Fairway & Greene and Polo Golf are among the brands who’ve dressed previous Ryder Cup teams. Peter Millar hasn’t made its way into the Ryder Cup merchandise, yet, but some shirts and caps for the event are already on sale at http://www.shoppga.com/event.asp?evn=2010+Ryder+Cup

–Annmarie Dodd

Simply the Best?

2010-02-01T08:31:00.006-05:00

(Photos the sole property of The Associated Press and Getty Images)

It was great to see Ryuji Imada around the top of the leaderboard at Torrey Pines all week... Rooj has been one of the sharpest dressers on Tour, week in and week out, for several years and, despite a Sunday slip, it appears his game is back in form...

What sets Imada apart, you ask? The man keeps it clean and simple. His trousers fit slimmer than your average pro's, his knits trimmer and he knows how to balance the use of powerful pieces/colors to create a subtle statement. See: If you wear Caribbean blue slacks, make sure the rest of your look is conservative...

Cutter & Buck is clearly making him custom sweaters - or he's wearing someone else and C&B is stamping them - because those things fit like a bag off the rack and Rooj is lookin' crisp out there. Check the photo of him in black - the sleeve is just perfect. I wasn't in love with the ribbing/body mapping on the blue number he was sporting yesterday, but the whole package is damn near perfect. If you're looking for a pro to emulate in terms of dress, look no further than this KC stalwart.

Welcome back, Ryuji!

-Sean

Badds the New Goods for Travis Mathew

2010-01-31T16:38:00.004-05:00

(Photo the sole property of Getty Images)

Travis Mathew continues to roll out its roster of offseason acquisitions. It's been confirmed by reliable sources that Aaron Baddeley is the latest signee for TM. Baddeley, with his shag and laid-back demeanor is a perfect fit for the brand known for exuding sophisticated, surfer style on the course. Baddeley spent several years as the posterboy for the bold plaids and stripes of Original Penguin .

A Travis Mathew rep at the PGA Merchandise Show told the KC, "When we did the initial fitting and saw [Aaron] in the clothing, it was the first time [we] said to eachother, "this is exactly how we envisioned the brand to look..."

An official announcement has yet to be made, but our impeccable record of providing you with the latest speaks for itself... Now we just need to see if Badds can resurrect his game in 2010. If he does, you can imagine TM will be the first to say, "Gotta be the duds..."

-Sean

Jessy Heuvelink @ J.Lindeberg

2010-01-29T09:25:00.008-05:00

J.Lindeberg’s new golf design director, Jessy Heuvelink, has just the fashion-schizophrenic pedigree needed to shape the Swedish brand that’s been pushing golf style forward for more than a decade. After stints in Adidas’ German headquarters and in Christian Lacroix’s haute couture atelier in Paris, Heuvelink has new muse … and it comes in the chiseled shape of Camilo Villegas. Here are some of the highlights of our meeting with Heuvelink at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando...

Q: Over the years, J.Lindeberg has been alternately all about color, or a particular silhouette, what’s driving J.Lindeberg right now?

J.H.: “Right now, J.Lindeberg is not about a revolution, but an evolution. We’re going back to our roots to bring style to the golf course with pieces no one has ever seen before, like a waterproof, tech blazer we’ve created that has the look of a traditional blazer, but you can play golf in it.”

Q: Is it wrong to say JL is only for the super slim? Pardon the pun, but is the line broader than that?

J.H.: "We do have that reputation, but the truth is we have pieces all kinds of shapes can wear. Some pieces, however, are done with a design twist that can make them seem like they’re cut smaller. I’ve often said, when some bigger guys wear JL, they can, in fact, appear trimmer than they really are."

Q: We’re looking at a collection that will hit stores in the early summer, what was your inspiration here?

J.H.: "Tailoring. Classic menswear patterns, like big plaids, houndstooths and pinstripes, yet made modern in technical fabrics. The play between the old traditions and the new..."

-Annmarie Dodd

Stuck in a Moment?

2010-01-25T12:48:00.009-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Jack Nicklaus Sportswear)

Fashion is cyclical. Most of us are starkly aware of that. What was hip once will probably be hip again, some day. Golf apparel companies have been tapping into designs from the 60's, 70's and 80's for the past few seasons of men's clothing and the response has been predominantly favorable. Many of the younger players on courses all over the world dress something like the younger players did 30 years ago. The focus on more streamlined looks across fashion's horizon has been a catalyst for a movement towards more fitted apparel on the fairways - which is great.

That being said, how far is too far with regards to revisiting the past? Would you buy an exact replica of the argyle sweater worn by Jack Nicklaus at the British Open in the 70's? Nicklaus Sportswear thinks you will. They are unveiling a Heritage collection that takes actual pieces Jack played in and was photographed in during the aforementioned decade and recreates them for the modern player. I can definitely see a collection like this getting some attention in Asia, where Nicklaus apparel sells more readily, but I don't see American or European golfers biting...

Between the Slazenger Heritage Collection, the Nicklaus Heritage Collection and other historically-inspired apparel lines, one inquisitively-minded individual surely begins to wonder if this seemingly fun regurgitation is actually completely stunting creativity. Reinventing and rebirthing old apparel lines is cool if you actually plan to take them somewhere - and I'm not picking on the Nicklaus line, because I think this idea has a lot of potential a) if they use the line as a "slim-fit" version of the Signature stuff then continue to develop and push direction once they've established a presence golfers can relate to, or b) make it a one-time, limited-edition type thing - but if the push is aimless - perhaps to keep churning out knit shirts with "retro flair," (what doesn't have "retro flair" these days?) it's going to stale quickly and sooner than later, be obsolete.

I guess my point is simply that apparel companies need to be aware of becoming too gimicky and nearsighted. It's exactly what they expect from us - by "us," I mean the golf industry and by "they," I mean everyone else that thinks 'golf' and 'style' don't belong in the same sentence. If it sells, it sells - I know companies have to move units. There is no better way to educate golfers on the elements of style then designing, producing and flooding the marketplace with high-quality clothing, but you also need to show your younger or savvier consumer a little bit of progression, creativity and vision or the mission is lost...

I had someone remark to me recently, "golf clothing is such a game of extremes - it's like I have to choose between plus-fours or a spacesuit... I just want a cool shirt and some flat-front pants that I could wear anywhere..."

Sounds pretty manageable, but is it?

-KC

Abu Dhabi Style

2010-01-21T12:13:00.005-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Getty Images)

The Euros (and quite a few international stars) are in the desert this week for the Abu Dhabi Championship. On display, here, are some of the more crisp and clean sartorial achievements we've seen recently - probably because we've been watching the Sony Open... snooze... It's nice to see a full field of some of the world's best looking sharp.

A few notes: Liking Geoff Ogilvy in those TM pants - big improvement with respect to fit - the tailoring is perfect in the back... Chris Wood fearlessly rocks 2 of the dominant colors in JL's spring 2010 gear... Camilo being Camilo - looking forward to seeing him in the new JL stuff, he needs to get back in the brights... Soren Kjeldsen cuts a striking silhouette in Puma... Henrik Stenson may have the best-fitting trousers in the game today...

-KC

2 New Apparel Companies Bust Out on 2010 PGA Tour

2010-01-19T15:35:00.008-05:00

Abacus

Richard S. Johnson in Abacus

-Swedish apparel brand, Abacus, has signed fellow Swede and former JL guy, Richard S. Johnson, to sport their looks on the European and PGA Tours. US customers may not be familiar yet with Abacus, but they've already been featured as the outerwear sponsor for the Euro side in the Solheim Cup last summer, are headed to the PGA Show and, of course, have been featured several times here on the KC... I really like the Nordic attitude of the clothing and the focus on making 'golf' apparel that really can be worn anywhere as sportswear with an emphasis on transitional pieces that thrive in a variety of weather... I've already conducted an interview with Abacus CEO, Sven-Olof Karlsson - which will be featured shortly - and I plan to sit with Abacus a week from Friday at the PGA Show to see the collections. Stay tuned for more on this...

-Flare apparel - trousers and shirts - is a brand-spanking new venture out of Tulsa. So new, it appears, that they do not have a website. Their pitchman on the 2010 Tour will be Bo Van Pelt, who has apparently been given a stake in the company in exchange for wearing the clothing. The shirts feature an interesting 'v' shaped cut-out on the sleeve and the color scheme is bright and bold. (See shots here of Bo in Flare, courtesy of Getty.) Currently working on gathering more info on these guys and their plans...

-KC

RLX Fall 2010

2010-01-18T16:46:00.004-05:00

The new RLX fall 2010 stuff is sick... I can't show photos yet, because RL will have my head on a stick. Trust me though... As they've done recently, the collection takes both heritage pieces - injected with contemporary flair and an updated fit - and modern staples with re-tooled detailing. It's clean and sophisticated with just enough edge to it. I'll have photos by next week from the PGA Show...

-KC

New York Haberdashery Show

2010-01-18T11:44:00.011-05:00

"BCR"

Todd Martin and Chris Knott

I stopped by the Warwick Hotel on Friday morning to chat with my friends Chris Knott and Millie Graham from Peter Millar. As always, we had fun firing back and forth about the latest developments in golf style, menswear and, of course, gossip. When I'm around the Peter Millar team, I always just want to slip into a Southern drawl - that syrupy demeanor is infectious. I was also pleased to get a chance to meet Todd Martin, who will be running the golf division for PM going forward and to hear some great news about the upcoming year... More to come on that.

Of course, we also had business to attend to, and that meant seeing all the new fall 2010 apparel from the ever-expanding PM collection. I am consistently blown away with the quality and the sheer scope of what they offer to their customer. New for this fall is a barrage of Italian-influenced outerwear; think zip-out vests, quilting, Loro Piana Storm System technology, etc. They are also doing a variety of beautifully-made shoes and belts with new closures. I'm amazed they are able to move all this stuff, but PM is able to make a super high-quality product and sell it well under comparable offerings from more renowned manufacturers from, say, across the pond - which has been a formula that seems to have worked in the men's specialty shops where they make their home.

As far as golf goes, PM offers boundless options in autumn sweaters: cashmere, merino, 1/4 zip, cardigan, shawl collar, classic v-neck. The fall book is just enormous. Knits are bold and bright, as always, and their pants have expanded to include several new styles of trousers including patterned wool offerings that fit with the sophistication of what I've been seeing for fall 2010 from others.

For the slightly older and more fiscally comfortable set that makes up the PM customer base, it's worth knowing that PM has never been more on top of its game than in 2010. But don't think the last 9 years have jaded these guys, they're still having plenty of fun. When asked about the scent of the new Peter Millar cologne offering, several members of the team - after attempting a more sophisticated pitch expounding the tri-layer musk and citrus oil formulation -finally remarked, "Hell, we just call it BCR... Bitches come runnin'..."

Sold.

-KC

Fun With Captions

2010-01-17T13:44:00.009-05:00

(Photo the property of The Associated Press)

Camilo: "Holy sh#t! Is that the KC in handcuffs?"

Ryo: "Yep. Guess the cops caught him trying to find a buyer for those unreleased Henrik Stenson underwear photos..."

Camilo: "Sick bastard..."

Why I May Consider Wearing a Slightly Wider Pant This Season...Maybe

2010-01-17T12:02:00.009-05:00

I'm consistently re-evaluating my wardrobe, both golf and otherwise. I bounce around and eliminate and revisit. I get sick of current pieces and bring out other pieces I thought I'd never wear again. I go from favoring muted tones to brighter colors and back again. So it's no real surprise that I've recently had an upheaval of my strict beliefs on the fit of my golf pants...

Off the course, I like my pants super trim. I favor a straight slim leg with a slight taper and 14" bottom openings. Not for the faint of heart... Anyways, the several pairs of golf trousers I wear have all been tweaked and now fit a lot like my everyday pants - and I've been hesitant (at best) of wearing anything on the course that wasn't cut to my exacting specifications. This kept me from wearing a lot of brands. I'd preside over racks of even the more aggressively cut stuff (JL, RLX, etc.) thinking, "they don't make pants that fit me." - I had effectively extricated myself from 99 percent of the golf pant market. (See here.)

That being said, it's a new year and I'm currently assessing my arsenal of on-course trousers. This change of heart I easily attribute to this pair of RLX Greens Pants I acquired from a buddy recently. The particular model I've owned several pairs of and because of their width, were now included under my aforementioned header of "pants I can't wear." Anyway, I tried this particular pair on -they are a size 32, I'm a 30 - and was pleasantly surprised.

The extra width didn't bother me - I actually enjoyed having a little more space to move - and the way they sat on my shoe didn't bother me so much either. (In the past, I hated wider openings because they'd dwarf your golf shoe - granted, these Classics Tours I'm wearing in the photos are cut wider and chunkier than say, the new Icons.) And because you can never really tell without a photo, I took a few (above) and they actually sit pretty well. In fact, if I go down to my true size, the 30, they should be spot-on.

A simple fitting and an open mind and here I sit, with a whole new realm of trouser possibilities for the 2010 golf season...

-KC

In 2010's Most Perplexing Apparel Development...

2010-01-16T09:24:00.006-05:00

(Photos the sole property of The Associated Press and/or Reuters Photos)

Ryuji Imada signed a 2-year shirt deal with Cutter & Buck...

Imada, who has sported Lacoste polos for the last several years, is an interesting fit for the brand that is probably best known for clothing Stuart Appleby and Annika Sorenstam - and, of course, providing that old member-guest shirt you never wear. (I kid.)

Cutter & Buck is one of those companies that do a lot behind the scenes - with wholesale and other services, but it hasn't been able to generate any fire retail-wise in quite some time.

They experimented with a younger line, CBUK, which was sold on Fairwaystyles for a while, but the colors are bad and the designs are worse... think puke-green color-blocking...

While Stuart Appleby is perennially one of the better-dressed players on Tour, he's a little older. I don't find C&B really fitting in with Ryuji's slightly edgier, less traditional style. Not that Lacoste really does either - but it's a bit more sporty. Ryuji would mesh well with a really modern, younger line. I hope C&B puts out some stuff that suits him or we could have another Charles Howell situation on our hands...

-KC

Webb Sensation?

2010-01-14T11:06:00.004-05:00

(Photo the property of AP Photo)

Polo Ralph Lauren announced officially today that it has signed former Wake Forest standout Webb Simpson to a multi-year deal. Webb will sport Polo Golf designs and serve as an ambassador for the brand - along with Davis Love III, Tom Watson and Jonathan Byrd - as he searches for his first PGA Tour win in 2010...

Polo Golf rarely adds to its roster and the Webb acquisition is a perfect match. As someone remarked to me recently, Webb is a "mini-Davis," of sorts... He has that preppy, Southern-shag thing going and he looks fantastic in the clothing.

An official press conference will be held at the PGA Show and we're going to try to sit down with Webb at some point and talk a little shop...

-KC

The Naked Golfer

2010-01-12T13:08:00.009-05:00

Is unsigned the new signed? Many top-flight players are opting not to sign a clothing deal these days. Two of the biggest stars in the world, Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson, are deal-less - probably a luxury, as they are hauling in enough cash to turn away offers. Adam Scott - still a top-40 player and probably one of the dream 'clothes hangers' for many designers and stylists - has been without a deal since he and Burberry parted ways. Rumors have swirled about everyone from Ashworth to Polo trying to nab the Aussie. Then there is red-hot Ryan Moore - the posterboy for label-less golf...

Are players tired of being told what to wear? Have today's lucrative equipment, ball and shoe deals - combined, of course, with increased perks and purses - negated the need for a clothing contract? I have to admit, it's nice to not see so many logos on players... Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood (top) and Camilo Villegas look like swinging stockcars with their credit card, watch and coffee logos... I guess, after all, a clothing sponsor is just another sponsor...

Regardless of the reason - there are unsigned, powerhouse players out there that potential advertisers/apparel companies could build an entire brand around. This golfer certainly wonders why these guys haven't been landed and what it might take to do just that... The best players in the world have the choice whether or not to just wear anyone who will throw them a decent chunk of change, but you'd think Marketing Directors from apparel houses would be all over these guys... Phil? Rory? I mean, I'd be folding these guys' underwear and lying to their mothers to land them... Adam Scott?? A no-brainer if his play improves... Hell, even if it doesn't...

With all the usual offseason reshuffling going on - Geoff Ogilvy, Nick Watney, etc. etc. - one must surely wonder what it takes to land the big one these days... I think more companies should be on top of the collegiate, junior and Nationwide ranks - looking for the next Rickie Fowler, the next Matteo Manassero, the next Webb Simpson - cool, young guys that are going to sell clothes... Maybe that's why the already established players aren't as attractive in a 'value' landscape that sees marketing budgets shrinking by the day... I can talk myself into a circle here, but Rory frickin' McIlroy should have a clothing sponsor - no excuses... The kid has cash cow written on his forehead and underlined, twice.

I guess, knowing what I know - that on the design and sales side, companies still get super charged up about signing a new player to their roster that fits the attitude and feel of that particular brand - it's amazing to me that superstars remain without deals, regardless of the market. Clearly, top brass still sees a capable golfer and pitchman as a sound investment... And from the athlete's camp, wouldn't finding a proper clothing deal be integral to building that player's image and story into a brand? We live in a visual world and how you look while competing is pretty damn important to a lot of us... Ian Poulter has 1 million Twitter followers and zero PGA Tour wins... Do the math.

-KC

Inspirations

2010-01-10T20:05:00.006-05:00

(All photos the property of Getty Images, AP Photos, Hart Schaffner Marx, Bergdorf Goodman, JL)

-KC

Aussie Inked?

2010-01-09T01:11:00.003-05:00

(Photo the sole property of Getty Images)

The Geoff Ogilvy clothing riddle has been solved...

As rumored, Geoff plans to sign with So Cal apparel brand - and recent KC feature - Travis Mathew.

Geoff will wear T.M. clothing, sans logos, until the deal is announced officially.

Trustworthy sources also reveal that T.M. will unveil two other big name sponsees in the coming weeks. So, be sure to look out for that... In fact, just look out for Travis Mathew in 2010, period. T.M. is coming out of the gate hard after successful '09 sales numbers and looking towards building a major stable of guys that reflect their brand's aesthetic.

-KC

Allergic?

2010-01-07T22:56:00.005-05:00

(Photo the sole property of Getty Images)

After 4 years with Puma, Geoff Ogilvy has put the cat to sleep... Ogilvy stepped out this week at the season opener in Kapalua adorned with logos from powerhouse Titleist/FootJoy- his new flagship sponsors. Ogilvy, as most serious golf fans know, was Puma's lead horse in the stable and a major driving force in their golf sales. For those of us close to the apparel game, we now are left to wonder what clothing Geoff will wear this year - we've been told he will NOT wear Peter Millar like the rest of the Titleist/FJ gang and will begin the season with no apparel deal...

This has to be a huge loss for Puma, who now looks to Rickie Fowler as its biggest star-power. No, Rickie doesn't have a U.S. Open or World Match Play title, but he does have A LOT more hair... (Probably the only gift Mr. Ogilvy isn't blessed with...)

-KC

PGA Show

2010-01-07T08:55:00.002-05:00

The KC team will be in full effect in Orlando in several weeks, so drop us a line, here. We love meeting fellow style enthusiasts...

Gilt Golf

2010-01-06T11:52:00.004-05:00

(Photo the property of Getty Images)

I've been noticing that Gilt Group has been incorporating several golf apparel companies into their rapidly rotating array of daily sales... I got an email blast today that TaylorMade/Adidas is being featured today at Noon (Eastern Time) - might be a good way to pick up some discounted golf shirts and wow, clubs too...

Check out the sale, here. You have to sign up to gain admission. Yes, they will send you emails every damn day, but it's fun to browse the goods from time to time... Enjoy.

P.S. - I think someone told Sergio about the sale... Or he just heard a particularly good Tiger joke...

-KC

Early Apparel Buzz in 2010...

2010-01-04T22:28:00.004-05:00

- Louis Wolcott - formally Global Brand Manager of J. Lindeberg Golf - has been tapped to launch the new Slazenger Heritage Collection at selected prestigious accounts throughout Europe for autumn/winter 2010.

The first collection is focused on 1970's and 1980's inspired classics as famously worn by Seve Ballesteros. (See above.)
The clothing has been modernized with a contemporary slim fit, high quality Italian fabrics and fine detailing.

- Peter Millar hires Todd Martin, one of the founders of Fairway and Greene, as President of its golf division, effective today. Martin will run the golf sales and strategic partnerships for PM going forward... With a proven leader on the golf side, will this free up other team members to focus on the ever-expanding menswear side of PM? Time will tell...

- Stopped into the J. Lindeberg showroom today and checked out the 2010 fall stuff. Some really unique pieces in there - a gray-and-white houndstooth down jacket comes to mind and a new, slimmer trouser cut, the Damon, which is looking especially fantastic. Too much orange for my taste in the collection, but the other colors, deep navy and bold red, are clean and pair well. Very cool webbed-nylon versions of the popular Slater belts also were standouts and look for organic, washed-cotton cardigans and v-necks... More to come...

-KC

Happy New Year From the KC...

2009-12-30T20:06:00.007-05:00

(Photo the property of TIME Magazine)

Roughly a year ago I relaunched the KC with hopes of spreading the message of golf style to a few folks, sharpening my writing skills, continuing to learn, meeting a few industry people and having a little fun. I've managed - with your help - to eclipse every expectation...

I've met countless interesting and generous individuals, have learned an incredible amount about the trade that I love and have ever so much enjoyed presenting to you all a certain vision of style on the fairways.

The idea was to become a forum where fashion-savvy golfers could compare notes, reflect, applaud, and even bicker at times - all the while creating a little corner of cyberspace that felt comfortable and focused on the attitudes and the clothing that make this game so special.

I hope for 2010, with the relaunch of the KC in the next few weeks, to bring loads more content -product reviews, photos, features, interviews, stories from around the golf style world and most importantly, continue the great fun we've had...

I thank you for spending a little bit of your time with us every week and hope that you've enjoyed what we've offered...

Please reach out with any ideas/constructions/concerns in the New Year.

All the best!

-KC

Dunning Tour Slim-Fit Polos

2009-12-29T15:39:00.006-05:00

Ralph Dunning and his team have some exciting product coming out next year and one of the newcomers is the Tour Slim-Fit Polo. Designed with 60's tailoring in mind, the polo is cut very close to the body. Besides being extremely comfortable and lightweight (performance poly) they are the perfect pattern for a thinner guy like myself (look at the side shot and the absence of any excess material in the body/the length and width of the sleeve and where it hits on the bicep.) The solid polos are great-looking and extremely versatile - look for striped offerings in the future. A warning: You may need to upgrade your trouser collection when you try one of these babies on... those fat, old khakis won't work anymore.

It's great to see brands continuing to push slimmer-fitting stuff. The emphasis on fashions of the 60's and 70's in golf apparel is really bringing 'fit' back into a game that had, for many years, lost its shape. Obviously, as a slimmer guy, I'm looking for the more radical approaches to close-fitting golf apparel - but companies everywhere are subtly cutting material from seats and crotches and hacking away at polos - not enough to alienate returning customers, but enough to see a benefit in streamlining the overall shape. I've talked with apparel companies whose demographics start at 45 and 50 years old and they are taking the fit movement into account as much as anyone. We're all looking better for it, too. So, keep it coming...

(Yes, it was about 20 degrees out when I took these snaps... True dedication to my craft, I suppose...)

-KC

Interview with Travis Johnson - Part 2

2009-12-28T12:45:00.006-05:00

(Photo of John Mallinger the sole property of Getty Images)

Part 2 of an interview with Travis Johnson from Travis Mathew...

6) What brands do you love? (Doesn't have to be clothing.) What do you look for in a brand?

Man, you’ve got great questions!!! To be honest, I consider myself the epitome of a consumer. I’m always following pop culture, trends, underground movements, etc., whether it’s on CNN, consumer reports, books, or magazines…I live for this stuff!! I’d say my deepest passions fall under the genres of sports, music, fashion and art. Food, drinks, health and wine are pretty enjoyable too. These things along with my family, friends and faith are what I live for. Some of my favorites in sports would have to be the Dodgers and “Lake Show,” as far as teams go.

As for sporting events, it’s hard to beat watching the Tour de France or attending the Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack. I love watching live musical performances by groups like Muse or Depeche Mode, but I also enjoy finding some of the newer lesser known indie bands like Ladyhawke or Phoenix. Wolfmother and Cold War Kids are a couple other pretty insane alternative bands to check out as well. As for fashion, I’m a big fan of an American surf brand called RVCA, as well as Hugo Boss or Armani suiting. I guess you can say that I’m not closed-minded to experiencing anything new. I give almost anything a fair chance and if I think it was well thought out and put together, I’m sold!

7) Tommy Armour and John Mallinger - can you share a story about each that fans might enjoy?

Haha, I can’t tell you how cool it is that we have these guys representing our brand on the big Tour. I met "Malli" when I was about 12 years old playing junior golf. Just like any childhood story, we had an already established, tight-knit group of So Cal junior golfers that Malli wasn’t a part of at the time. Nothing against him, but Malli grew up in some small town outside of San Diego that none of us had ever heard about and we were all LA/Orange County kids. I’ll never forget the first tournament that I met Malli at. It was the Maxfli Junior Championship and I got paired with this skinny-legged, soft-spoken kid that I dwarfed over in size. I didn’t have a worry in the world about beating this kid that I knew nothing about, but after 6 holes, then 12 and eventually though 18, this kid using a beat-up, old 8802 Wilson blade dropped putts from everywhere. Malli ended up winning the event by at least 4 or 5 strokes leaving us all clearly behind in the dust. He instantly earned my respect as a golfer and as a character.

Over the next few years I got to know Malli a lot more, eventually becoming decent friends during college while he was at Long Beach State and I was playing at UCLA, but even better friends after college when I moved back home to Long Beach where Malli was still residing. We practiced at the same course, Virginia Country Club, worked with the same coach, Jamie Mulligan, and traveled the country competing in many mini-tour events together. Overall though, the best thing that I can share about Malli is that he is an incredible guy who hasn’t changed a bit since the day I met him. At first glance, you’d think he’s still some soft-spoken guy from a small town in San Diego, but the moment you watch him play a full round of golf, you’ll realize that he’s more so like a “quiet assassin” with his laser-like accuracy and freakish short game. And though he’s one of the most competitive guys that I know on the course, he’s also one of the most free-spirited, fun-loving guys off the course. Malli cares about nothing more in life than his family, his friends, giving back to the youth in his community and his San Diego Chargers. I haven’t met too many people more well-grounded than Malli is with all that he has achieved to this point in his young career and I’m proud to be one of his friends.

As for Tommy, I don’t even know where to begin! TA in my mind, is one of the game’s last remaining true golfers. When I say that I mean that he comes from the old school, low-ball hitting, cigarette smoking, just get it in the hole kind of players. He doesn’t need a strength coach, the guy is as strong as a bull. He doesn’t need a mental coach because he knows exactly what he needs to do to play well. In fact, he doesn’t even need an apparel sponsor if he didn’t want it, the guy looks cool in anything he wears. The first time that I met Tommy was in Hawaii at the ‘05 Sony Open. I was at the event trying to Monday qualify along with Malli. After our practice round on Saturday, we happened to run into TA and his posse inside the Waialae Men’s Lounge that hovers over the Pacific. Tommy saw us two slumming around so he invited us to his table. After having a few pops with Tommy he invited us to his party later that night at the W hotel. At that point Malli and I had only heard the folkloric tales of Tommy and all that goes on at his parties, so we were beyond stoked to be invited to hang with this living legend. I won’t reveal all of the details about the party, but I will say the moment we showed up, all of the stories that I ever heard about how cool Tommy Armour was were instantly confirmed the moment we walked through the doors.

8) Where do you see TM in 5 years?

Well, as highly as I think of our brand, I also understand the realities of our current economy and how difficult it will be over the next few years to be prosperous in this industry. What we do have going for us though right now is that we’re flourishing as a company -- Our only problem right now is having enough product in stock to keep filling the shelves at our accounts. We are also unbelievably fortunate to have built the most amazing team internally, that will allow us to react quickly to the turbulence of this market so that we can stay above water during any peak or valley during these next few years. At that point, if we have weathered this storm that we are currently in, I really do believe that we will have an great opportunity to be one of the most influential brands that has ever entered the golf arena. We’ve studied in great measures the Munsingwears and Ashworths, and the Nikes and Adidases and I believe that we will have the opportunity to be one of the next names in that progression to help grow the game to more people, but even more so to improve the look and lifestyles of the individuals that make up this great game.

9) How does the whole social media/blogs like this and internet based advertising structure play into the hands of an up and coming apparel brand?

I learned very early on during my golfing career that any kind of marketing is good marketing and this day and age there seems to be an abundant amount of resources to help get your name out there if you want. The tricky part though is deciphering which of these marketing channels will maximize your exposure and visibility. I still haven’t quite figured that one out, but we’ve got some great young minds working on that as we speak. In the meantime, I will say that this source of advertising is probably one of the most undervalued marketing tools of our industry. The way I view social media is that it is one of the most efficient ways that I can connect with our customers to find out what they think about our products and/or services. It also helps me to better understand consumer needs. If consumer habits and trends follow the path they are already on, we will only see an increase of social networking through internet media and on-line blogging, which in turn will perpetuate the growth of online purchasing. I believe it is the way of the future.

Thanks for considering us to be a part of your blog! I’m a big fan of what you’ve created.

Thanks, Travis!

-KC

Introducing: Ukko

2009-12-18T13:15:00.007-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Ukko)

Ukko is a London-based apparel company that exudes some serious British flair - aimed at clothing its' customer both on the course and off. When I look at these images, I can't help but see Topshop for the fairways - which is a pretty cool concept. The stuff is affordable, with polos around $50 US, sweaters around $100. ("Jumpers," if you will, mate...)

It appears in their short history, they've already amassed a following of local professionals and they have their own actively managed and frequently posted-to blog.

I've reached out to team Ukko to get some info on what they're all about. In the meantime, enjoy the photos of their first collection...

P.S. - If you're digging this stuff, you have to read yesterday's post.

-KC

Separation Anxiety

2009-12-17T11:52:00.006-05:00

(All images the sole property of J. Lindeberg)

I'm really inspired by a lot of non-golf stuff. I hate to think of golf clothing as a separate entity from the menswear world, because, frankly, that's dangerous and a license for disaster. I won't be placed in a box of someone else's construction... I read fantastically put-together menswear blogs daily and much of the inspiration for this site comes from them.

I love how JL chose to shoot these stills for their s/s 2010 menswear (non-golf) collection - with the model sporting JL's new golf shoe. I like the pairing of sportswear with formal clothing and I love the whole fashion meets function vibe from these shots.

When I choose my clothing for the course - I like to be a little bit different - stuff like this really inspires me to take a second look at my preoccupations with what 'golf clothing' means...

One thing I've found is you can be much more creative than most apparel companies would have you think. You don't need to stick to golf-specific manufacturers when you choose golf apparel - that will only hinder individuality.

I think the simplest way to look at things is to consider the fact that you're headed outside to participate in a recreational activity. You need traction and stability to swing the club (from your shoe) and you need room and comfort to turn (from your clothing) - beyond that your options are nearly endless. You have to decide, "How important are performance qualities to me?" To us, they aren't everything. I'd rather be comfortable with the way my clothing fits and looks than wear a shirt that has certain performance features, but looks space age.

In today's golf market, many companies are coming around to the fact that you can incorporate performance and technical features into a piece that also looks great - because a large amount of consumers and pros alike do take the performance capabilities -moisture wicking, SPF, anti-microbial properties, etc. - into account.

A company that comes to mind is Dunning - Ralph Dunning started designing gear for triathletes, so performance is paramount; at the same time Ralph also happens to be into 60's mod gear and 80's prep style - so Dunning is working on blending performance with style in a new and exciting way, like a CoolMax/Merino wool blend for sweaters and slim-cut herringbone trousers that breathe.

Blending fashion with function is one of the things JL has always kept as a mantra for the brand: classic yet active, energetic. The key for me is really the transitional elements of this ideal - the blurring of the edges, so to speak, between clothing for sport and clothing for casualwear. You see it everywhere these days - workwear is HUGE in mainstream fashion - plaids, boots, selvedge denims, leathers, industrial-strength jackets and coats. Old workwear and sport brands have been revitalized in American fashion - Red Wing Boots, Barbour jackets, Sperry Topsider, Woolrich, LL Bean...

When I go out to play golf, I want to be wearing something I'd feel comfortable in on the streets, I don't want to pull up to the ATM on my way to the course and have someone be able to readily distinguish that I'm on my way to the club. With the way prep-style has re-emerged as the go-to for the younger set, this is not an outlandish suggestion. I could just as easily be wearing a cricket sweater or an argyle vest to a downtown meeting, as I could to the first tee.

I suppose the message here is one of open-mindedness... Do not place restrictions on your creativity by boxing yourself in with what the industry or other influences have defined as "golf clothing." It is much more practical, in our on-the-go world, to create transitional looks that work wherever life may take you today. I say this a lot, but "Have some fun with it..."

-KC

The KC's Christmas List

2009-12-14T15:41:00.005-05:00

1) Abacus Golf Pullover (www.abacus-outdoor.com)

2) Abacus Golf Pitch Jacket (www.abacus-outdoor.com)

3) Phineas Cole by Paul Stuart belt (www.phineascole.com)

4) Phineas Cole by Paul Stuart belt (www.phineascole.com)

5) RLX LS FZ Jacket (www.trendygolf.com)

6) Peter Millar V-Neck 12-gauge cashmere sweater (www.petermillarshop.com)

7) Ralph Lauren Black Label cashmere cardigan (www.ralphlauren.com)

8) Polo by Ralph Lauren cable-knit cashmere crewneck sweater (www.ralphlauren.com)

9) Dunning Tour Slim-Fit Polo (www.dunningsportswear.com) (www.trendygolfusa.com)

10) J. Lindeberg Larson Micro-Twill (www.zappos.com)

11) RLX Green Pant (www.trendygolfusa.com)

12) J. Lindeberg Sellers slim-fit trouser (www.trendygolf.com)

13) Marcoliani Milano socks (www.zappos.com)

14) FootJoy pebbled leather saddle Icons (www.footjoy.com)

-KC

More Nedbank Style...

2009-12-14T15:18:00.002-05:00

(All photos are the sole property of Getty Images and are borrowed)

Bet Your Bottom Color?

2009-12-14T13:59:00.007-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Getty Images)

A little analysis on the style selections from the professional tours today at the KC... Something we haven't done in a while. Case study: Nick Watney at the Nedbank - Gary Player's tournament in South Africa that draws a strong field.

First off, I'd like to clarify here that I love Watney's efforts and creativity with his looks. He clearly put some time into his selections. In the top photo I liked the movement of color through the look, it's not overdone - subtle navy stripe on the FJ Icon Sport, navy gator belt and navy/white stripe, self-collar shirt. I like how the color balance is centered on his top half, I find this works better as a general rule. I definitely would have chosen a white trouser for this look, however. He would appear so crisp in white or even bone - the solid surplus color deadens the look.

The bottom photo I wanted to show, because he made selections based strongly on color coordination again. The white shirt features bold red stripes and he has paired that with a lighter gray pant and off-white belt - then the piece de resistance - the red and white patent leather custom, 'USA' emblazoned Icons. Too much... It's just too light on top and heavy on the bottom - the balance from the look is totally thrown.

I love all the pieces from the bottom look individually - except the shoes. A solid white shoe would kick a** here. Or even the Icon sport with a red stripe a' la the Luke Donald shot from "...Looks of the Year." Don't get me wrong, I love Watney's patriotism, but he doesn't have the fire power to pull these off. Camilo, maybe Miguel Angel Jimenez or even Hunter Mahan, they are really the only guys I can think of who could...

-KC

Friday Inspirations

2009-12-11T12:47:00.006-05:00

(All photos the property of Getty Images/Reuters Pictures/The Associated Press/Time Magazine and others...)

-KC

9 Holes with Travis Johnson - Founder and Creative Director of Travis Mathew - Part 1

2009-12-09T12:33:00.006-05:00

(Photo of Travis in his UCLA days)

The KC recently caught up with Travis Johnson, founder and creative director of Travis Mathew apparel. Travis is a passionate young guy, former touring professional and has some really unique ideas about style. We think you'll enjoy...

KC: Travis, thanks for agreeing to sit down with us. We'll do a 9-hole questioning format to keep it true to the game...

Travis: I like your spin on playing nine, eighteen is way too much for a guy with A.D.D. It was great meeting you a few weeks ago...

KC: Travis, you mentioned that a wide range of stuff inspired you in the development of the spring/summer 2010 stuff. Can you name a few of the inspirations and how they're reflected in the clothing?

Travis: Well, as you know, I always source my inspiration for our new lines from outside of golf. For our spring/summer 2010 Collection, “Electric,” I got a lot of coloring and design ideas from the Coachella Music Festival that I attended last year. It was a pretty amazing line-up including bands like Kraftwerk, Roger Waters from The Original Pink Floyd, The Raconteurs, Portishead, and the Verve. The sheer lighting, music, and energy from the event were enough to give anybody a major dose of sensory overload. I drew a lot of inspiration from the show’s typical outdoor rock & roll theme, but also this year’s “light show” that went on throughout the night. The captivating night was filled with vibrant beams of light and color giving the evening a rather “electric” feeling. I tried to let these themes and feelings spillover to this upcoming year’s spring/summer collection, which will hit stores Feb 1.

KC: It seems like the goal is to get TM to that oft-used distinction of "lifestyle" brand - what steps are you taking to round out the collection, so to speak, and outfit your customer from tee box to town?

Travis: We have set out to achieve many goals at Travis Mathew and a part of our main vision here is to have our golf brand evolve into a fully-fashioned, lifestyle brand. However, just like any up-and-coming brand, you have to stick to the basics and what you know. Right now, we know how to make great golf clothing and we will not lose focus of that. At the same time, in order to not lose sight of our ultimate plan we have spent this last year acquiring the experience we need in order to start adding these new categories to our collections. The result of this last year’s investment will be seen for the first time in our spring/summer 2010 collection. We will be adding a nice line of dress pants, dress shorts, reversible outerwear, and golf inspired t-shirts, as well as few other cool accessories. Keep your eye out for these new additions, as they are our first step in growing our collection to better represent the lifestyle that surrounds our brand.

KC: Who is the ideal Travis Mathew customer? Who are you shooting for with the clothing/attitude/vibe of the product?

Travis: As much as I'd like to put a finger on who we sell to mostly, I've got to be honest and say that there is no pure age or demographic to our customer. We see both older and younger individuals alike wearing our product throughout the US. If anything, I would say the few commonalities that I see in our consumer is that they all enjoy clothing, they all care what they look like, and they all have a little spare cash to spend on something that looks different than what they’re used to.

KC: There is a heavy "So Cal" influence in the TM stuff, how would you describe your personal style and what you grew up appreciating about clothing?

Travis: There is definitely some West Coast and Southern California aspects to our product line; however, if you take a closer look to our apparel you will see that we draw inspiration from many more American influences than just the one we live and grew up in. One of our recent best-sellers, the TM “Searslack” and “Searshort” both completely sold out, two collections in a row. That style was derived from my playing days back in the South during ‘05 & ‘06. At the time it seemed like everybody in the South owned a pair of seersuckers and they all cherished them as if they were their Sunday best. I figured we could make an even nicer pair of seersuckers for our consumers throughout the country by upgrading the model with our performance-based qualities and basic TM fit. Point being, Travis Mathew may be based out of Southern California, but we consider ourselves a design team that makes apparel for the masses. To us, it’s not so much about what we like or what we want, it’s about providing what’s not already out there and doing it in a way that embodies the style and quality of [our brand.]

Stay locked into the KC for the rest of the interview with Travis, including Travis' favorite brands and some juice on Travis Mathew's touring pros, John Mallinger and Tommy Armour III...

-KC

Q-uality

2009-12-07T16:19:00.005-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Getty Images)

Graeme McDowell always looks sharp on the course in his Q'aja, but Sunday at the Chevron World Challenge he really stood out - in a tough-to-pull-off, muted fall ensemble. The soft gray cardigan with the lavender polo, the off-white trouser and shield-tip FJs were the epitome of elegance.

Something to consider - lighter colors for fall. It can be a great look if done well. If you're going for an all-muted look like Graeme, consider the fact that the fit must be perfect or you'll risk looking severely dated. That's why I love this side-shot of Graeme - there is no excess material hanging from the sweater or the pant - just crisp lines everywhere.

Another note: You absolutely cannot go wrong with purple and gray - you can go much darker than Graeme. Play with different hues and textures of both and you'll always look positively regal.

-KC

Thinking "Small Ball"

2009-12-03T15:08:00.008-05:00

We talk a lot on this blog about the little things, whether it be the perfect length, cut, fit of a trouser or shirt, well-chosen accessories and detailing that set different apparel companies apart from the rest - wishful thinking that brands will realize that in today's market, many of the consumers that we know of are looking for stories behind a product, tiny performance aspects, personalized service, perhaps even just a taste of nostalgia and heritage in what they are buying.

The whole idea of "boutiquing" the golf industry is, in fact, wishful and progressive thinking. In actuality, the big boys: the Nikes, the Adidas/TaylorMades - these are the players that are making a killing in clothing sales. There is nothing wrong with that - but it says something about the industry as a whole. Dare I make the argument that many consumers are educated on products, while many merchandisers and stockists are not.

Many pro shops across the nation aren't given the education necessary to stock their stores with quality product that reflects a filtered version of what is out there and what are the best possible goods to provide to the golfer. This isn't an indication of price, although price does often play a role. That being said, you don't have to spend a lot more to get a lot more in terms of quality, technology, heritage and progressiveness- which translate to overall consumer enjoyment.

If a pro stocks a shop with the very best and only the best, at every price point - their membership will buy more clothing and look better in the process. That's why I love the idea of online "boutique" golf stores that only buy and stock merchandise that reflects a certain taste level and certain assurance of quality and performance. Trendygolf.com is a site that immediately comes to mind. Zappos.com is another. (They are making a heavy golf push as of late.)

It is rare to find a golf pro shop stocked like a boutique - in reality you only need a few brands to really merchandise a shop. If you're carrying 3 or 4 top quality apparel companies in a style for every golfer - you're covering your bases. There is no reason to diversify more than that unless you're selling on a huge scale. You have your Peter Millar and Polo Golf for the older generation, RLX, JL and Dunning for the young and the young-at-heart and you're set. (These are, of course, examples...)

Members of all ages want "hip" and current stuff, yet so many merchandisers are afraid to make changes in their seasonal lineups for fear of not moving soft goods.

Clothing isn't like equipment where you can run with your old war horses for seasons and seasons and continue to sell year after year. Stylish golf clothing is fashion - love it or hate it. It ebbs and it flows and it re-invents itself. Yes, the golf market is often a little behind, but never have we been at a place where the menswear market is more parallel to what's being offered by golf apparel companies.

Brands like Polo, JL, Dunning, Peter Millar - these guys offer lifestyle collections that can clothe your membership from head-to-toe. All it takes is a little buying savvy and an appreciation and taste level that are going to make your shop stand out. Successful merchandisers know that when people come into the store, they want a quality shopping experience, at any level. If this means having the ability to buy the best $60 shirt on the market, then that's what they should have access to. It's really the golfer's right and the shop's prerogative to not have winter blow-out sales where everything is left from the fall, because the already poor selection has been picked over and dismantled and the shop needs to see some sort of profit. It's a lose-lose for both parties.

Purchase cool shoes, cool belts, an equal mix of traditionally cut and slimmer, more progressive designs, limited edition stuff, great outerwear, unique "gift" pieces and then bread-and-butter standards. Hell, I say bring in a few pieces for the street or the town... Too risky? That is what consumers are looking for! Carefully chosen suggestions on how to live and look good - on the course or at home. "Boutique" your shop - it will pay off!

If you'd like more information on this and other "off-the-cuff" KC ideas, we're always open for business. Having a better shopping venue for your members will reverberate throughout the club or course experience as a whole.

-KC

Perfect

2009-12-02T18:39:00.002-05:00

My buddy JP sent me this photo of Gary Player (left, observing) and Tony Jacklin at the Portland Country Club, in Falmouth, Maine - the town I grew up in and a course I'm very familiar with.

I'm in awe of Player in this photo. I was just having a conversation with Ralph Dunning of Dunning Sportswear and he described a certain silhouette they were aspiring to as "James Bond-like." To me, Player is the epitomy of that perfectly trim, Bond look here. Check out the sleeve-length that shows off the strength in his arms and the crisp, white trouser - and that hair!

I also love how much of Jacklin's socks are showing as he sets at the top of his swing. This is one of my favorite vintage golf photos we've come across. Two gentlemen out for a good walk spoiled.

-KC

Abacus Follow-Up...

2009-12-01T15:46:00.005-05:00

I was thrilled to find out that Abacus will make its official US unveiling at the PGA Show in Orlando this January. The interest level has been high since the Solheim Cup, according to Shane at Caulfeild Apparel Group, which distributes the brand in North America.

Should have some more info and interviews with the Managing Director and Chief Designer of Abacus in the next few weeks, so check back for that if you like what you see...

-KC

A Winter Awakening: Abacus Golf

2009-12-01T11:00:00.004-05:00

Why is it that the Swedes just consistently 'get it'? Rarely do we beseech our readers into action, but if you have even the vaguest interest in golf, clothing, or both - you HAVE to go to the Abacus website and look through their collection pages and download the Autumn/Winter catalog. Rarely have we been so inspired.

The clothing is presented in this beautiful, pure and sporty way that calls immediate comparison to a Ralph Lauren or other lifestyle brand. Some of the looks they've put together for golf are just so cool and so unlike what most Americans typically picture when they think "golf apparel." The photography is also top-notch.

There are so many ways to differentiate yourself on the course and a good place to start is getting some layering and accessory inspiration from Abacus. Check out the pieces we've featured above - they don't look like golf pieces - they look like upscale casualwear with a very urban and modern sensibility.

The Swedish Abacus is currently available in Canada, but is beginning to trickle into the US after the Solheim Cup in 2009, where they were the outerwear provider for the European side.

We're trying to lock down someone from Abacus for some more information on the origin of the products and what they have planned for their North American expansion.

-KC

Oh! Mega Bright...

2009-11-30T16:55:00.004-05:00

(All photos the property of the Associated Press)

It's a wonder that players in the Omega Mission Hills World Cup made it through security at the airport - they were packing some serious heat...

Bright trousers reigned supreme in China where guys like Jamie Donaldson of Wales (top) and Jyoti Randhawa (2nd from top) of India made Poults and Fisher's coordinating IJP trousers look frighteningly cautious.

Winners in the pants parade, you ask? Inconclusive. John Daly could not be reached for comment... The event was won by Italian brothers Molinari e Molinari - meanwhile the Swedes - Stenson och Karlsson - wore their trousers like proper Italians, looking brilliant in the fit department, as always.

-KC

Weekly Inspirations: Thanksgiving Edition

2009-11-24T09:44:00.009-05:00

-KC

An Essay: Has Golf Become Too Casual?

2009-11-23T08:57:00.005-05:00

(Photos the sole property of Getty Images)

Golf is a game. Golf has most certainly, in the past decade, become what the average human would consider a true 'sport.' But one should, in my opinion, dress for golf in a way that pertains more to the former than the latter. To simply use the word 'dress' implies a certain amount of care and of purpose. Plenty of golfers put deliberate care into choosing a golf shirt the same way that plenty of businessmen put care into choosing a tie each day. Without that simple premise, a blog like this - and a million others like it - does not exist.

We've found that golfers, on the whole, happen to be at least vaguely interested, one way or another, in style. They like a particular shirt for the way it fits, or the boldness of its color or the softness of its hand. They may not know why or how or who, but they know they're going to wear that beautiful shirt on Sunday when the money is on the line because they always play better in it or at the Goldman Sachs outing, because they always look better in it.

As the loyal KC reader knows, we are fully in favor of experimentation on the course in terms of dress. That is proven again and again here with our open-mindedness. That being said, we're also phenomenally grounded in and inspired by tradition. We think golfers should look sharp out there, put thorough care into what they're wearing and dress 'for the day.'

Take a company like J. Lindeberg - incredibly innovative: what many people consider to be the godfather of the rebirth of golf style - but one of the things Johan Lindeberg didn't want to lose sight of was the heritage of the game. JL has succeeded in creating collection after collection of golf clothing that calls to mind the Palmers and the Players, their charisma, their charm, their gentlemanly qualities - but also injected the sexiness, the brashness, the excitement - that had seemingly left the game for good in the 80's and 90's.

Lindeberg may use technical fabrics and European-inspired styling, but the basis of each and every collection is classic tailoring and iconic menswear: cardigans, v-neck sweaters, waistcoats, wool trousers in classic English patterns, merino vests. Yes, you may see something that Camilo helped design that looks a little more Mick Jagger than Bob Ford, but I can guarantee you that a JL mood board is built around the premise that golf is an iconic symbol - one to experiment with, but never forsake.

Many collections, even those rooted in very traditional styling, like say, a Polo Golf, certainly feel the need to evolve as the game changes and becomes 'sportier.' They are masters of doing this in subtle ways - extending the hem on a golf short, cutting a polo shirt ever so slimmer, shortening a sleeve, blending in a moisture-wicking fabric - but they are never going to lose that customer that they've built over the years: the one that takes a true pleasure in dressing for the game.

Even some of the newer brands that may not look so traditional are getting inspiration from the right places. I met this past week with Travis and Chris at Travis Mathew and although these guys may produce collections with the distinct, no-frills essence of Southern California, the designs are rooted in an appreciation of functional and stylish menswear pieces that also happen to work for golf.

Creativity and experimentation, as we've said, are so important to personal style and to keeping people interested in clothing. That being said, I see some things that I simply can't condone. Sneaker-golf shoes, untucked shirts, mock-necks. No professional golfer should be wearing a shirt without a collar or have his shirt untucked on the course. Period. Johan Edfors has a tremendous amount of personal style and there very well may be a contingent of ladies who enjoy seeing his belly-button on every shot, but half the time he's playing, he looks like he's going to the beach. And the topic of mock-necks shouldn't even get airtime on an esteemed site like this one, but unfortunately there are plenty of guys out there still wearing them... We'll make it simple for you... DON'T.

The sneaker-style golf shoe thing I can live with if it is done appropriately. When Ryan Moore has worn a vest and a tie, I say, rock the Puma low-tops. It's like jeans with a blazer and slim tie, they offset each other in terms of formality. Go right ahead. But in the photo above, he loses me... Completely... You know what? Retract my statement. Ryan Moore could have just as much personal style on the course while wearing appropriate footwear - get yourself a FootJoy contract like a PGA Tour winner should and bring the vests back out of the closet.

Overly 'techy' stuff falls into the cautionary category. I'll be the first to admit it, I initially had a huge problem with the insanely popular JL Troyan and Troon pants. I wasn't going out there in anything but cotton or wool. I've relaxed in my initial hesitation, because there are huge benefits to technical pieces in terms of non-wrinkle capabilities, the aversion to staining, etc. Although they aren't for everyone, polyester performance pants do have their place in today's game if they fit and behave like JL's and are built to look polished and as part of a uniquely "golf" look.

I don't know - I guess I still romanticize this game so much: the idea of driving to the course on a crisp morning, sun-shining, a golf polo, a sweater, a crisp pair of trousers - top down on a classic car. Dew on the first tee, a clean pair of golf shoes. The lifestyle really. What it means to be a gentleman golfer. It's something very sacred to me. That romance and that intrigue will never leave the game for some, I'm content knowing that. Has golf become too casual? That depends how you see it. Has the clothing become more relaxed? Yes, that's fair to say and probably necessary given the changes in the physical game. Have the attitudes become more relaxed? Yes, I think that's also fair.

There is no reason to fear change as long as the inspiration and the participation are pure. This is a clothing blog, but these broader topics are things to be considered, certainly. So as you pull up to the course, change your shoes, feel that distinct fall sunshine on your shoulders, remember that golf is only as pure as its current participants, its current state. It's every golfer's responsibility to carry on the tradition of this storied game. Dress like you respect it. Act like you cherish it. And most importantly, pass it on so we never forget it...

-KC

Spotted: JL Window @ NY Golf Center

2009-11-20T12:50:00.003-05:00

Prep/Golf Style Dun Right?

2009-11-18T22:07:00.009-05:00

(Photos the property of Dunning/Buffalo Communications)

Here at the KC we are big fans of Ralph Dunning and his attitudes about clothing. Being self-described, hybrid prepsters ourselves, we can appreciate the love that Dunning has for iconic styles for the course and for the street.

Achieving prep-appeal while maintaining technical progressiveness and appreciation of classic tailoring is the cornerstone for the Canadian company with aspirations to wholly embrace golf, while remaining by all definitions a lifestyle brand. And life at Dunning appears to be good; where we know from the evolution of a little brand called Lauren, every Ralph needs his mansion:

Welcome to the newly-opened Toronto flagship store of Dunning Sportswear.

Enjoy.

-KC

The Cold Shoulder

2009-11-18T20:59:00.004-05:00

(Photo the property of Getty Images)

I'm assuming a bunch of you golfers out there wear compression tops/thermal layers under golf polos on cold days... If so, would any of you wear these Nike Thermal Sleeves AK was sporting in New Zealand? (Above.)

I wouldn't be caught dead in these things. a.) There are so many stylish cold-weather options for golf and b.) Let's be honest, I'd rather freeze to death than wear an arm condom. Walter Hagen is rolling over in his grave.

-KC

LA

2009-11-16T20:09:00.003-05:00

The KC team is headed to LA tomorrow for a five day stint checking out the best in west coast golf style.

If you're in the greater LA area and want to set aside time to chat, have us preview new gear or just say hello, hit us on email.

Sean

The KC Gets Kidnapped!?

2009-11-16T09:37:00.005-05:00

(All Photos the sole property of Getty Images)

The Kiwi Challenge is fast becoming one of our favorite events at the KC. The venue, New Zealand's Cape Kidnappers, breathtakingly transports you to a sort of golfing Neverland (Think Peter Pan, not King of Pop) and what better locale for the competition that touts its victor "Best Golfer Under the Age of 30..."

With four of the PGA Tour's best and brightest, one would have to think that fashion, in some sense, would enter into the foray - along with the anticipated attitude, competitiveness and youthful vigor that make this event so much fun. This year's lineup had a little bit of everything style-wise, which we loved:

You have Anthony Kim in Nike Golf - very sporty, function out-favoring form, slim cuts; Camilo Villegas in J. Lindeberg - more "fashiony," bootcut trousers, edgy, a little rock n' roll; Sean O'Hair in Ashworth - All-American boy, stoic, more traditional fits, natural materials and Hunter Mahan in Under Armour - the closest thing golf has to The X-Games.

Four very different and distinct attitudes reflected in their personal styles and the apparel companies they've chosen to represent. It's sort of a chicken and an egg type thing here, but one wonders - with such great congruity between the apparel these young men wear and their attitudes and auras - is the spokesman always eventually drawn to the right brand or does the spokesman eventually become the brand, regardless of whether or not it's the right one - so to speak... In any event, someone is doing their job here, because it all works.

Who looked the best out there? Depends on what you like... To see four young golfers wearing clothing that fits them properly is a victory for all of us in the apparel industry and a recent phenomenon of sorts. At the KC, we are never known to promote complacency, but since it's the Silly Season, let's try not to get too serious about it... Being serious is really an over-30 thing anyway, right?

-KC

Neutrality Bites!?

2009-11-13T12:45:00.007-05:00

(All photos the sole property of Getty/Canon Images)

Phil's secret for living in the fashion fast lane? Leave it in neutral, baby. Through four rounds of fantastic golf in Shanghai, Phil never left the monochromatic sphere. The result was pure sophistication and a good lesson in using basic texture and pattern instead of color to diversify a look or series of looks. Phil favored pinstripes in different widths, both piped and solid polos and exotic skin belts to keep things really clean, tailored and well, serious. As serious as a 1.2 million dollar payday...

-KC

Tony Q: Q+A

2009-11-13T11:50:00.008-05:00

(Photos courtesy of The Associated Press/Reuters Photos/Getty Images/Q'aja)

I was fortunate enough recently to get a few words out of my buddy Tony Q'aja, founder of Q'aja Couture and a longtime KC supporter. I caught up with Tony on the current state of the style game on the US and European Tours, what we can expect from Q'aja in the coming year and how it is having a young US player wearing his designs...

1. There are a lot of golf polos and trousers on the market, what sets Q'aja apart and how is Q'aja working on staying updated to meet buyers demands? Yes, Sean. There seems to be a growing trend to have a golf line. There are designer brands that feel they have to have a golf line to stop their consumer from going to other brands that do a golf line and indirectly start becoming a consumer of the opposing brand.

As you know, Q’aja has a background [in] tailoring, where we have to consider how a garment should fit a consumer. The fit of a garment has to be created with a thought for what the garment is going to be used for. It is these important considerations that make Q’aja distinctly clothing [for golf.]

So we had to create garments that would look good (fit), feel good (fabric), and perform well (functionality).

Our ready-to-wear pants have a unique adjustable waistband that helps towards a perfect fit. For those of you that have the athletic figure (hate you), with a small waist and large seat (ok, ass) you can buy the larger size and glide the waistband until you are comfortable. For those of us with a good living athletic figure (ok, large) you can get the pants to fit nice on the seat and glide the waistband out.

Fabrics are very important. We use natural, cool wool for our pants and merino wool with polyester for our polos. The wool keeps your body temperature cool in heat and warm in the cold. Q’aja is created for the savvy guy that can appreciate and understand these attributes.

We are always looking at ways of improving our products, not just from a design perspective but also functionality. We hope that Q’aja actually initiates the demand from the buyers through its creativity. Remember, when we created the [V] slits at the hem of the pants, initially people were not sure; but now everyone is wearing them because they are not only functional but also good-looking and different.

2. What do you think was the biggest golf moment of 2009? Ricardo Gonzalez’s victory on the European Tour. After four barren years of just qualifying and getting his card, he finally put in a performance that even Tiger would have been proud of. Five birdies out of his last six holes which consisted of some amazing shots through trees and bunkers....truly amazing! The fact that he had just started to wear Q’aja clothing just two months prior, well that’s another conspiracy theory.......

3. You have a young US PGA Tour player, Scott Piercy, sporting Q'aja in the US. How has having a young staff influenced your designs? It has been good to have a US player in our stable. I have to say the US market generally has a very conservative view as far as fashion goes. You have also been brought up in the world of ‘dress down,’ ‘easy-fit’ and washing machines.

So I was keen to show the Q’aja ethos to you guys. Scott Piercy decided he wanted to have a different look than the other players and understood the benefits of the products and their quality fabrics. Again, as Scott will tell you, the positivity he feels everytime he goes out to play is because of the feel-good factor he gets when he puts Q’aja label clothing on. Oh, and he’s not had a bad maiden year either!

We introduced some trendier designs for some of our younger players without going overboard. Remember Q’aja is about sophisticated style. These have been introduced initially through our world exclusive bespoke Polo facility.

4. We've been speaking for some time now about the Q'aja "bespoke polo" service. Is this currently being offered in the UK? Can we expect this service to appear in the US soon? The bespoke Polo facility has been introduced into the UK and US but only on a private basis at present. The problem we have with making it commercially available is cost. Golf stores or Country clubs feel that their consumers wouldn’t spend too much on a golf product! On the contrary we receive numerous enquiries from around the world asking for these exact products and consumers want these. So we are in the process of setting up a ‘Friends of Q’aja’ stable. Consumers can join for £10 or $15 and have access to the bespoke sevice at special rates. This will enable them to order some of the unique styles that the Tour players will be wearing, Limited editions. They will also be able to get styling or fitting advice, just like the celebrities. Add to all this advance viewing and ordering of the following seasons ready-to-wear line again at preferential rates. Anyone interested should send an email to info@qaja.co.uk stating interest in ‘Friends of Q’ and state they live in. (Editor's Note: It should also be mentioned that Phil Mickelson, having no clothing deal and the choice of anything to wear, chooses Q'aja bespoke polo services...)

5. Since guys are often wearing styled/scripted outfits on Tour, how much would you say personal style plays a role? How would you describe your own personal style? Many brands will instruct which outfit their tour player should wear and when. Others will just send boxes of products and let the player mix and match on his own accord, which in my opinion, can be a very dangerous thing! Personal style, I think, is very important. You have to be able to look at the person’s personality, complexion, hair and of course, his size. The clothing needs to reflect these personal attributes in a manner that makes the player feel good. If the player feels good in the clothing it will be very apparent on-screen and bodes well for the brand. It has to be a happy marriage.

My personal style is probably reflected in my collections. Sadly, I am no longer a teenager or the athletic soccer player of my youth. I have grown to appreciate quality and sophistication. In a small paraphrase, ‘Classic with a Twist’, just like Q'aja...

-KC

No, Poults, These Are MyJoys...Those Are YourJoys...

2009-11-11T15:16:00.005-05:00

(Ian wears a custom pair of MyJoy Icons, photo the property of Getty Images)

PGA Tour pros are really having fun with the MyJoys program from FootJoy. As you'll see in this video, courtesy of Chris at FootJoy, guys like Ryuji Imada, Charley Hoffman and of course, Ian Poulter, are thoroughly enjoying being a part of the design process for their Icon footwear. You'll also get a chance to preview some of the styles these players will be wearing in 2010.

As a few of the interviewees explain, it's really taking their creativity and expression to new levels. A definite must-watch for all the FootJoy fans and anyone who loves seeing such enthusiasm for style on the course...

CHECK IT OUT ON THE FOOTJOY BLOG

-KC

Win a Camilo Villegas-Signed JL Tour Bag!!

2009-11-11T13:49:00.004-05:00

Talk about a Christmas gift idea... Our buddies over at TrendyGolf are offering one fortunate individual the chance to win a J. Lindeberg tour bag signed by JL poster-boy Camilo Villegas. Pretty awesome deal. The bag itself is centerpiece-worthy and even though Camilo didn't pick up a win in 2009, he's still one of the most stylish guys to ever tee it up... Goes a long way in our book...

The contest runs through December 15th, so you have plenty of time to fill out an entry form and then pick up some of the new fall stuff from Dunning, RLX, Q'aja and the rest of TrendyGolf's great selection of brands. Do you think Team Trendy will figure out that I've already entered 157 times? I hope not...

ENTER HERE

-KC

Just Pleat It?!

2009-11-10T09:21:00.011-05:00

Well, it's official...pleats are cool again. At least judging by the golf-style barometer that is J. Lindeberg. At last check, pleats have really made a full-on departure from the ranks of pros and hackers alike...at least under the age of 50. Hell, even Tiger Woods - seemingly bulletproof to trends in golfwear - rocks flat-fronts and has for several years.

I'm not quite sure how I feel about the infusion of pleats into the game again for the younger player. I mean, a single pleat looks okay on a younger guy if the trouser is cut well and the width of the leg is slimmer - avoiding the "sack" effect seen on the sartorially-challenged. Sean O' Hair is a guy who comes to mind - he has worn a trimmer cut pant with a single pleat and looked fine.

The good thing about the JL Trivone AMF Chic pant, pictured above and available spring 2010, is that the double pleats are subtle and shallow and don't do much at all to affect the overall character of the trouser.

In fact - as you can tell from the shot on the model - they're barely noticeable.

As mentioned in the Polo RL preview, Polo Golf has some great traditional pleated offerings that call to mind the heritage of the game - and legends like Hagen and Hogan (above) - in terms of materials and styling.

It also must be noted that golf apparel is following directly in step with the re-emergence of pleats in casual wear. They say that if what you're wearing happens to be 'out' of style, just wait...Fashion is cyclical and just like that white belt you wore in the 70's is still teetering on the plateau of 'hip,' your pleated slacks now qualify you as ahead of the curve...That being said, please make sure they fit...Like a glove. And don't go ordering those triple-pleated Elevee nightmares either.

In fact, if you've been wearing flat-fronts, stay there for now... It took us long enough to get looking better on the greens and like JL's mini-pleats, it may be best to take baby steps. If you need a bit of advice on spring gear, don't hesitate to email us.

In closing: If there's a pleat parade coming through town, team KC won't be falling in step anytime soon...

Inside the Ropes: NBC Team to Wear PM Gear

2009-11-09T14:52:00.003-05:00

As alluded to in the Peter Millar S/S 2010 preview, NBC and PM have agreed to a partnership wherein the NBC golf and production team - think Miller, Hicks, Roberts, Pepper, McCord, etc. will be sporting Peter Millar apparel beginning in early December at Sherwood for the Chevron World Challenge.

A very exciting announcement for those familiar with the Peter Millar brand - as the sophisticated colors, materials and textures of PM offerings are a sort of new level of look for NBC's team and a much-needed facelift. Our only hope here is that they get as creative as possible with the looks and really use the serious depth of PM's menswear collection to get these guys looking sharp and sophisticated. We're picturing layering techniques like a quilted vest under a sportcoat and exotic leather belts for the on-course guys. I wonder sometimes who styles for those guys - would be a fun job. KC consulting services is always open for business...Look us up.

Here is the official announcement, courtesy of Peter Millar:

Peter Millar Partners with NBC Sports

Leading Lifestyle Brand Becomes Official Apparel Supplier of NBC Sports Golf Production Team

CARY, NC (November 9, 2009) – Peter Millar, a leader in the luxury apparel market, announced today that it has entered into a new partnership with NBC Sports. Peter Millar will outfit the entire NBC Sports golf talent and production team beginning with the Chevron World Challenge on December 5th, 2009 at Sherwood Country Club. As the official apparel provider for NBC Sports golf, the chosen items will feature both the NBC Sports and Peter Millar logos.

“We are thrilled to form a partnership with NBC Sports. The golf world is such an important part of the Peter Millar lifestyle. With NBC Sports, each week we will be entering into our customers’ home through Dan Hicks, Johnny Miller and the entire broadcast team. ” says Scott Mahoney, President & CEO of Peter Millar.

“We look forward to providing Peter Millar with a national stage for their superior product as our golf announce team will wear a variety of their apparel throughout our extensive schedule,” said Ken Schanzer, President of NBC Sports. NBC’s golf schedule is highlighted by The Players Championship, US Open Championship, Fed-Ex Cup Playoffs & Ryder Cup in 2010.

Peter Millar will bring a timeless sophistication and style to the telecasters’ apparel choices. From sport coats, dress shirts, neckwear, sweaters and knit shirts, the broadcast team consisting of Dan Hicks, Johnny Miller, Roger Maltbie, Gary Koch, Bob Murphy, Jimmy Roberts, Mark Rolfing and Dottie Pepper will all be dressed by Peter Millar.

ABOUT PETER MILLAR

Peter Millar, LLC is a leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products. Peter Millar has achieved remarkable growth and success by supplying the highest quality products to a premium limited distribution. The Company’s brand names include Peter Millar, Peter Millar Tailored Clothing, Peter Millar Dress Furnishings and Tweed Peacock. For more information, please visit www.petermillar.com or contact Millie Graham at 919.465.0155 #109 or email: mgraham@petermillar.com.

ABOUT NBC

NBC Universal Sports & Olympics, known for amassing large audiences while presenting the most prestigious properties in sports, represents superior production, broad promotion, and mutually beneficial partnerships, all designed to elevate the sport. Other prestigious NBC Sports properties include Notre Dame football, the U.S. Open Championship, The Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Wimbledon, French Open, and the Stanley Cup Final.

Back to Asics?

2009-11-09T14:09:00.003-05:00

(Photos the property of The Associated Press and Asics)

As reported by the KC back in April, Asics has been planning to drop a golf shoe on the US market. That day has arrived, as the Gelace (Gel-Ace) will be available in mid-November at GolfGalaxy.com.

There has been a lot of shakeup news in the golf shoe market as of late - with FJ's Icon, JL's independent shoe release (they have previously collaborated with Puma) the new Nike Tour Premium, the Adidas 360 4.0, new Puma models earlier this spring and finally the Asics intro...That's a lot to choose from when you are looking for a top flight golf shoe.

At 150-175 bucks MSRP, the Asics shoe will be priced well below higher-end competition. The shoe is most certainly sporty in heritage, and golfers looking for a shoe compatible with a more classic wardrobe will struggle. But if you wear a lot of Puma, Sligo and other more "in your face" brands, these will work nicely with the color palettes of your existing closets.

As far as bells and whistles, Asics offers a hidden lacing system that keeps the top line of the shoe looking streamlined and slimmer, and the traction and stability are given the attention you would expect from a company with a running pedigree.

Personally, we think the white base/silver/black model is the keeper of the bunch. You could go real clean and modern - black polo and a white pair of trousers - and these shoes are bold enough to carry the entire look. Back to (B)asics, indeed...

-KC

Second-Half "Looks of the Year"

2009-11-06T10:48:00.010-05:00

(All photos the property of Getty Images/The Associated Press/Reuters Pictures/ESPN etc.)

It's that time again...Time to present the KC's Looks of the Year - 2nd Half Edition. We're talking piles and piles of pima and polyester here. Cotton and wool, wool and cotton, these looks are gone, but not forgotten. (Beautiful, we know...) The second half of the season was a little disparaging apparel-wise, but there were some bright spots. An unexpected masterpiece was Tom Watson at Turnberry in iconic numbers from Polo and who could forget the ping-pong match of classic pieces at the Presidents Cup? Ryo Ishikawa and Ian Poulter kept our eyes popping as always and new additions Fowler and Lovemark gave us something to look forward to in Scottsdale. Anyways, let's get right into it.

Nominee #1: Rory McIlroy. Dunhill. We love Rory, but he has struggled in the past with his dress. One thing we do like, however, is Rory never looks overdone - he's retained that "amateur" look. This, to us, is the most realistic pro outfit we've seen. Cotton-corduroy 5-pocket trousers and cashmere zip-neck - easy, comfortable, stylish. Look at the clean lines created down his side from such well-fitting stuff. We all should be dressing like this for fall golf.

Nominee #2: Luke Donald. Madrid Masters. THIS is why MyJoys Icons were created. To me, this look is near perfection.

Nominee #3: Greg Norman. Opening Ceremonies - The Presidents Cup. No one looked better in a suit that day then El Capitan, himself.

Nominees #4 and #5: Tom Watson. Days 1 and 2, The British Open. The pinnacle of the 2009 apparel season were Polo's duds for Watson's historic run. The golf was fairly good, too.

Nominees #6 and #7: United States Team. International Team. Saturday and Sunday at The Presidents Cup, respectively. Argyle was on fire in the Bay Area - Watching the evolution of these team looks is a real pleasure. Can't wait for Ryder Cup 2010.

Nominee #8: Jamie Lovemark. Frys.com Open. It's all about the accessories and the fit here. It's a slight case of "what have you done for me lately," but this was a real favorite.

Nominee #9: Will MacKenzie. PGA Championship. Camilo wore this JL shirt - one of my favorites I bought last spring - earlier in the year with an all-black ensemble. Willy chose a couple of the many multi-colored stripes (gray and white) on the shirt and paired slacks and belt accordingly. Classic example of JL.

Nominee #10: Phil Mickelson. The Tour Championship. Phil gets a blue ribbon for this one.(The nipple shot is insignificant...I think.) Fantastic color polo paired with the very fine stripe trouser is sporty yet elegant. I could wear this on the course every day.

We will follow this up, as always, with an Honorable Mention section. Looking forward to responses from you all...

-KC

Hard to Resist Caption...

2009-11-05T12:00:00.003-05:00

(Photo the property of the Associated Press)

So did you hear about the tower they built in Shanghai?

Yup...Erected in honor of Phil's ego.

Thigh Society?

2009-11-05T11:38:00.005-05:00

(Photo the property of the Associated Press)

Tiger pumps iron...A LOT...so he has big thigh muscles. He uses this excuse for wearing extremely full-cut pants and we've heard he rarely attends fitting sessions for team events like the Presidents Cup. Really disappointing. I pictured him saying to the Elevee rep before the matches - "Just send me the usual, you know...a nice happy medium between MC Hammer and Barnum & Bailey..."

This shot does a great job of showing just how big the bottom openings are on Tiger's trousers. He could really go much slimmer throughout with some tapering down through the base and he'd look much taller and more striking out there on the fairways. It's one of those things that keeps us up at night - wanting to get the Greatest Player Ever into a pair of slacks that fits...I guess we're in the right business. Call us, Tiger.

-KC

Personal Style

2009-11-03T10:25:00.011-05:00

(Photos the property of Getty Images/The Associated Press/Reuters Pictures etc.)

Personal style is what keeps things exciting. Those little details that set us apart. Wearing pieces that anyone else might wear, but doing it in a unique way that reflects our personalities and tells everyone a little bit about us. Personal style is what you're noticing on a person when you can't figure out exactly what's so eye-catching, but damn, it works. Things like a favorite item or brand, color, thoughtful accessories, distinct fit, even an attitude or swagger - all play into personal style. I've had people ask me, "In a sea of golfers all wearing similar things, how can I have personal style?" Or, "How can I set myself apart from the khaki'd hordes?" Well, I can give advice and fashion tips until I'm blue in the face, but pictures and examples are always much more effective.

Some of you will recall my particular fondness for the sleeve length on Jamie Lovemark's Nike polo shirts last weekend. Lovemark, to me, has a tremendous amount of personal style. Before turning pro he looked particularly stylish in a super trim Polo golf shirt, light blue trousers and a white belt. (Above.) For me, the fit of the items and the southern California attitude he exudes are what sets him apart. He hasn't lost that swagger, but has elevated his look to that of professional golfer. In his Nike duds, Lovemark mixes in a distinctive riveted belt and striped socks - sartorial statements you rarely see on Tour. This photo can also be found in the "Weekend Inspirations" post last Friday.

Drew Weaver is another young player that oozes personal style. Drew is a bit of an old soul and it comes out in his dress. How many college golfers do you see so polished and put-together? He wowed at this year's US Open with his maturity on the course and off, but you can be sure that no one missed what he was wearing... You can also bet that 100 people called Ralph Lauren on Monday to find out where they could get that yellow and blue vest. Personal style makes these guys attractive to apparel manufacturers and Weaver is now outfitted by Polo. Rickie Fowler's signing with Puma has a lot to do with his serious talent, but probably more to do with his look, his attitude...hell, his hair...

Ian Poulter, for all the sh*t he takes, is a personal style poster-boy. No one does it like him. We may not all want to dress exactly like him, but he makes us think. "Would this work? Could I get away with that?" He inspires creativity. No one does it like Phil Mickelson: "I'm a bigger guy, but if Phil can get away with a trimmer shirt, ya know what, so could I..."

Ryuji Imada. Camilo Villegas. Luke Donald. A million similarly-built young golfers can wear the exact same shirt and trousers as these guys, but what sets them apart are their own touches. Their uniqueness.

As a junior golfer, I was always inspired by older teaching professionals. Their perfectly creased slacks, the beautiful shirts, the suntan, the wrinkles around the eyes. (See: Bob Ford, top.) I wanted to be just like them. They just had it. It is personal style and that is what keeps us smiling at the KC.

We Weren't Shocked That...

2009-11-02T11:09:00.007-05:00

(All photos the property of The Associated Press, Getty Images or Reuters Pictures)

-Ian Poulter won his first tournament in 2 years on Halloween weekend...Was anyone IJP for "All Hallows Eve?" That's the real question...

-AK beat Robert Allenby in the Volvo Match Play battle of he-said/he-said/boozy, curfew-ignoring allegations/frustration over getting whipped by a 24-year-old kid melodrama -- otherwise known as Vodkagate.

-AK yawned his way to a 4-and- 3 loss to Ross Fisher in the final. Ross - who sees the words "match" and "play" in the same sentence and needs to change his skivvies - is quickly becoming a force in that particular format.

-Phil continued experimenting on the clothing front, even venturing into the very "un-Phil" realm of pastel trousers. Something nice and light for the Singapore heat? Did anyone else think they looked like denim from far away? The horror...

-Adam Scott looked sharp in stripes at the Barclays. Someone please ink a major clothing deal with this guy. It's a bloody waste to see the Aussie logo-less.

-KC

Slackers...

2009-11-02T10:08:00.002-05:00

Only 5 comments on what your favorite golf pants are?!

C'mon guys...

Help us out here...

For those that did weigh in, THANK YOU.

-KC

Weekend Inspirations

2009-10-30T14:27:00.005-04:00

The KC Wants to Know...

2009-10-30T13:58:00.007-04:00

(From Top to Bottom: Polo RL, J. Lindeberg, Bills Khakis and RLX)

What pants do you wear the most to play golf and why? If you're hopelessly hungover, late for your tee time and questioning your very existence, what are the pants draped casually over a chair or in the closet that you'll reach for without so much as a thought? Could be the fit, could be the details, could be the way you think they make your ass look when you address that fairway wood shot and the cart girl is looming. All are acceptable.

Please DO NOT be shy, anonymous comments are fine, but WE WANT TO KNOW.

Thanks

-KC

(My favorite is a pair of Hugo Boss stretch cotton khakis I picked up in Charleston, SC about 4 years ago. I've worn the absolute crap out of them and they just get softer and softer.)

Where Fashion Sits?

2009-10-30T11:53:00.008-04:00

(Photo the property of The Associated Press)

There is some argument over who stated that 'a picture is worth a thousand words,' but no altercation involving the absolutely perfect proportions in this shot of AK. The trouser sits nicely on the shoe - "sittin' on the swish" as I kiddingly refer to it. I know it's a Nike swoosh, but it sounds much better when I sing it that way. Yes, I said 'sing...'

Meanwhile, the sleeves are, for my taste, perfect. It's so satisfying to witness a complete look that fits so well and is pleasing to the eye. Usually the shirt works, but the pants suck or the pants are nice and the polo is billowy, etc. Everything is in a nice little package here proportionally.

A lot of companies blast you with color like a finger-painting kindergartner, demanding "Look what we did!" - but forget all about how the garment wears and sits. Now, I'm not in love with these Nike items, styling-wise, but you simply cannot deny the fit. I guess that's where fashion sits...Hmm?

-KC

Slow and Trendy Wins the Race?!

2009-10-26T13:46:00.009-04:00

The European Tour's equivalent of the FedEx Cup is the season-long Race to Dubai, which wraps in several weeks. In commemoration of the event, companies like Ralph Lauren and Puma have designed limited edition apparel and accessories that showcase the RTD logos.

The coolest, in our opinion, are the Puma Swing Crown GTXs pictured above - available only from your pals at Trendygolf.com.

Done in white and silver - with blue lining and the Dubai skyline on the heel - these bad boys are sure to stand out at the club. Geoff Ogilvy, Johan Edfors and the rest of the fellas will be sporting these at the European Tour's finale, November 19-22 in Dubai.

Sneaker-heads who happen to be golfers are going to be into items like this and we're glad to see companies recognizing that. Puma definitely goes for that edgier demographic and tries to incorporate a streetwear feel to their golf collection. This kind of attitude is especially popular in Europe...and with Rickie Fowler having a big weekend, Puma is looking pretty strong on US soil as well.

You could go as far as saying we're pretty bullish on the Cat right now...

-KC

Sleeving Las Vegas?

2009-10-26T09:44:00.004-04:00

(Photo the property of The Associated Press)

Did anyone else like how Jamie Lovemark's Nike golf shirts fit? Super trim and we loved the sleeve length. Perfect for a young guy.

As far as the headline, it was actually Arizona, but who's counting?

-KC

JL S/S 2010 Preview

2009-10-23T14:41:00.011-04:00

(Lookbook photos the property of J. Lindeberg)

It's all in the details for JL spring/summer '10 gear. The Trevone pant and Tivone short feature contrast pick-stitching along the pocket with a strip of matching fabric lining the pockets. Very cool and totally unique in the golf market.

They've also redone two of our favorite JL warhorses - the Lachlan and the Lewis - in cotton instead of polyester, which is always a preferable change for us purists.

We're also really digging the color schemes. Love that electric blue running rampant through the collection (the bold stripe sweater pictured above is a personal favorite) and its powdery blue counterpart. The bright red and the cruise green/softer green combinations are bold and sophisticated. The several shades of brown keep things grounded; while whites, grays and blacks are expected and work to fill the bottom end.

With continually great clothing and the addition of their new golf shoe, JL is looking head-to-toe-tough heading into next year. What else should we expect from the company that started this whole 'modern golf style' thing?

Shop JL at Trendygolf or the JL US Webstore.

-KC

6 hours in Cary, NC - Peter Millar Spring/Summer 2010 Preview

2009-10-22T09:15:00.011-04:00

When the kind folks at Peter Millar were generous enough to extend the invitation to their office/showroom/warehouse in Cary, NC to hang out and preview the new 2010 stuff, I happily obliged. First of all, I hadn't been to the Carolinas since a brief stint living in Charleston and secondly, PM happens to be one of my favorite lines out there - I love the philosophy that Chris Knott has about clothing and I like being around a team that has a real passion for what they do.

At PM they toss around phrases like "easygoing affluence," "attainable luxury" and "prestigious without being pretentious" - but they mean it. These guys are all about their customer living the good life and creating the best quality clothing made of the finest materials that can be had - all with a carefree and very Southern mentality that consistently reminds us all to slow down; that life is to be enjoyed.

PM clothing has that Italian sensibility for form and function and those same blasts of color that inspired Knott in 2001 when he sought out to create a cashmere sweater collection that stood apart. Add that to the mantra that beautiful clothing can be indicative of your success and station without being obnoxious and you have the winning philosophy that PM has ridden for the past 8 years, as their collection has grown to a truly lifestyle brand - encompassing the entire men's wardrobe from tailored suiting to boxer shorts.

But now that the pleasantries are out of the way...a few things I did while in Cary.

-Learned about the naming process for PM's outerwear styles and shirt colors...Hint: it's not that technical. Your favorite jacket for fall 2010 may be the namesake of a popular grilled sandwich.

-Got shat on by a bird while eating pulled pork nachos in downtown Raleigh. ("It's good luck!" - says Millie, PM's Marketing Director.)

-Heard from Scott that PM has recently inked a deal with NBC to provide clothing to their announcing teams for golf and a few other special programs, which means Johnny, Dan and the boys will be looking a lot better next season. Maybe we'll see something besides a navy blazer or sport coat - For JM, let's bring back those glen-plaids and houndstooths of his youth.

-Found out that tracking down a size Small in the giant PM warehouse is like looking for Tiger Woods at a Target.

-Got excited when Chris got into his pitch about PM's new "tailored" distinction as an additional option in sizing and styling on selected polos and trousers, which will trim the silhouette down significantly. Look for that in Fall 2010.

As far as the spring 2010 offerings, I'm loving the sun-washed collection of polos and pants, a few of the new shoe offerings (bit drivers in very Milanese colors and great looking boat shoes) and the genuine crocodile belts. (All pictured above.) As always, you can expect fantastic sweaters in various styles and the softest cotton golf shirts in the game.

Peter Millar knows and loves its' customer. The company's ability to keep making quality clothing that reflects current market demand while sticking to what has made them what they are is one of their greatest strengths.

Thanks to Chris, Scott, Millie, Mike, Marcus and the rest of the team for a great day in NC.

-KC

Closet Case: Ian Poulter

2009-10-20T20:10:00.004-04:00

(Photo the property of Getty Images)

We're slightly color blind after a quick go 'round in Ian's closet, courtesy of FootJoy.com. The session in the garage is just staggering, with all those custom Icons. FootJoy treats Poults very, very well - and vice versa of course, as Ian takes a moment to plug FootJoy's new MyJoy program for the flagship shoe. Quick turnaround time for custom shoes? Now that's something to be rosy about...Kind of makes us think of Ian's Valentine's Day-hued, pink and red, Icon wingtips. Will there be more heartbreak for Ian in 2010 or will he bust through for a Tour win? Only time will tell...

-KC

Monday Makeover: Spencer Levin

2009-10-19T14:20:00.010-04:00

(Photo the property of The Associated Press)

Spencer had a lot of attitude when he burst on the scene in the 2004 US Open at Shinnecock. The little dude had steam coming out of his ears after a poor putt, chain smoking and wowing crowds with impressive shotmaking on golf's toughest setup. You'd think that as a pro, the charisma he displayed in that oversize visor and flipped collar would translate to a personal style second-to- none. Well, at JT's Shriners event in Vegas, the only thing stylish about Spencer was his first round 62 - his clothing was the fashion equivalent of a big, wet divot.

His trousers appear to be garden variety khakis and they fit pretty horribly. Spencer is slight enough to wear a slim golf trouser and look really sharp. Last I knew, he was wearing Dunning, but he's in Adidas here so maybe things are currently up in the air. In any event, he needs to visit a decent tailor or pick up an off-the-peg, trimmer pair like JL's Nicolas or RLX's Green pant.

The whole look is bland and lacks punch - inject some much-needed color with a bold shirt or texture with a patterned/striped dark trouser.

Spencer is a 20-something in a old man's gaucho belt. It looks like he picked it up at on the discount rack at Larry's Golf Universe. Get that man a thicker and more youthful offering - if he's with Adidas now, they should have him in the "3-stripe" silver buckle - he needs to be wearing a belt like eventual winner, Martin Laird. (59 Belts, Scottish Flag)

Bottom Line: Friends don't let friends wear bad clothes. Spencer, call us, buddy. The KC is always open. No need to drop the ball on your wardrobe choices next time...(Yes, that's an alternate headline for the above photo.)

Daily Inspirations

2009-10-15T14:05:00.002-04:00

(All photos are sourced from various sites. The KC takes no credit nor claims ownership of any of them.)

"Layyyer Brah"

2009-10-13T10:35:00.006-04:00

You know all those fall layering techniques you're seeing in the magazines and on the streets? You can most certainly bring them to the golf course. Lots of apparel manufacturers are seeing the importance of transitional pieces for the golf course that can easily take you to the clubhouse and beyond - creating a truly 'lifestyle' collection. Two of the best at this are J. Lindeberg and Ralph Lauren...No shocker given their menswear pedigrees.

I was messing around in the JL showroom this morning and put together an example of a pairing I utilize quite often for cooler morning temps on the course. The quilted jacket/tech vest/polo combination. The jacket gets thrown on as you leave the house, keeps you warm on the way to the course and perhaps, on the practice tee. The jacket then comes off to give you room to rip that first drive down the center, leaving your core warm in the tech vest. The vest may well stay on the entire round during the fall, or you may opt to stuff it in your bag as the round goes on.

The great thing about layering with zippered garments, like above, is you're never pulling something over your head. Golfers are a superstitious bunch and if they open with a few birdies, may not want to remove that sweater or other item for fear of jinxing the hot start. It's easier to slip out of something than commit to the removal of the hat, sunglasses, etc. Just a thought...

There are several other combinations you could mix in here. A cardigan could replace the tech vest, as could a V-neck sweater. You could even replace the outer jacket with a V-neck sweater, keeping the vest underneath like Luke Donald did at the Masters this past year. (Netting him an honorable mention for KC's Best Midseason Look, might I add...)

This segues us nicely into Ralph Lauren RLX, you can see several of their takes on layering here, in my preview of spring/summer 2010. I was, as always, very impressed with the lightweight layering pieces RL had in store for next year, they practically invented this stuff on U.S. soil.

You can buy all this stuff online or at a fine golf retailer nearest you...I've always wanted to say that.

-KC

Star Spangled Banter

2009-10-12T09:37:00.006-04:00

(Photos the sole property of Getty Images, Reuters Photos and AP Photo)

The USA made us proud this past week at the Presidents Cup. For the first time in years, it seemed like we had a genuinely cohesive unit out there. Congratulations to Freddie and the boys.

At the KC we were very impressed overall with both captains' apparel selections. Clothing seems to be improving in quality and detail every year in these team events. Genuine appreciation should be given to the Greg Norman Collection, Ashworth, Elevee and the rest of the providers. The following will be a quick recap of days 2, 3 and 4.

Day 2 (Photos 1+2): Loved the Internationals khaki ensembles with the diamond-patterned, powder blue polos. Very crisp, very professional, very European. The US was just "okay" in multi-stripe shirts and charcoal trousers. The pop came from the red hats, which seemed kind of out of place with the rest of the look.

Day 3 (Photos 3+4): Total U.S. domination. And we don't mean solely on the scoreboard... The off-white/gray argyle, cashmere sweaters were possibly the best piece of the week. The INTLs looked classic in blacks and creams, but couldn't match up.

Day 4 (Photos 5+6): More argyle, this time for the Internationals who just killed it. Their look yesterday was everything a team event 'uniform' should be: flattering, contemporary, appropriate and fun to wear. The US wore red shirts/hats in homage to Tiger's Sunday winning practices - and really looked quite sharp in the process - but definite edge to Greg Norman's side.

We loved the classic inspiration of the apparel at Harding Park. More modern touches like sterling team belt buckles on the INTL side were paired with bold argyle, color-blocked and patterned polos. On the US side, as can be expected, there were lots of stripes and patriotic red flashes, but the best came when the bolder colors of the flag were left alone; iconic grays and whites - reminiscent of the gulls that circle the Bay Area - won the day. It was fun to see newer brands like Elevee alongside classics like Ashworth and Greg Norman and it was nice to see the quality and thought put into all the pieces worn.

Here at the KC, we sometimes get so caught up in "what we could have done better" that we forget to sit back and see the successes and the strides that team looks have made through the years. We can only assume, with next year's Ryder Cup, that this progression and focus on quality and fit will continue.

-KC (Proud golfers, Americans and style observers)

Presidents Cup - Day 1 - Apparel Watch

2009-10-09T10:14:00.002-04:00

(Photos the property of Reuters Photos/AP Photo and Getty Images)

Day 1 team looks - quick recap: slight edge to the Americans, which is rare in recent years. I liked the professional look of the gray pinstriped trouser with the bold, red sweaters. Classic.

The International's polo shirts were a bit busy for my taste and I think, in team events, simplicity is going to succeed every time. The Sunday yellow shirts look really clean and fantastic - looking forward to those.

Obviously, fit varied by player and remained fairly consistent with their usual wardrobes on Tour; Camilo had his trademark shorter, bicep-hugging sleeves, Tiger could fit Y.E. Yang in his pants with him, Anthony Kim favored trimmer, younger cuts, Ryo's personal style continues to shine through, etc. etc.

Play-wise, the Americans look tough, but part of the reason why these team events are so thrilling, is you can just never tell...

-KC

Diamonds are Fore-ever?

2009-10-07T18:35:00.007-04:00

(Photos the property of The Associated Press/AP Photo and courtesy of the Apparelwire.com)

It's argyle everywhere at the Presidents Cup; where the International squad will sport the pattern two, and possibly three, days during the competition. The Americans, to their part, have already looked sharp in soft blue argyle sweaters during practice rounds. The remaining American looks will center around the typical trifecta of red, white and blue. (Gray on Day 2)

Above are the clothing selections for both teams; Greg Norman and the ol' INTL boys have provided a more complete day-by-day scripting, whereas you'll kind of have to wait to see what Freddy and Ashworth pull out of the closet daily for the Yanks.

I love these damn events - I'm so giddy...I feel like Billy Payne on Masters Sunday. Match to watch on Thursday, you ask? Tiger and Stricks vs. Ryo and Geoff?! USA!USA!USA!

-KC

More Shoes, More News

2009-10-06T12:53:00.009-04:00

FJ SPORT
NIKE Tour Premium
FootJoy ICON

Adidas Tour 360 LTD

(Photos the property of Nike Golf, FootJoy/Acushnet and Adidas Golf)

Nike's Tour Premium got the go-round from British Open champ, Stewart Cink, in the TOUR Championship just over a week ago and was introduced to retail stores on Oct. 1. The shoe is definitely a new and more elegant approach from Nike, who has strongly favored sportier designs for many years. The tagline is "Old World Craftsmanship Meets New World Performance" which everyone seems to be going for recently. (FootJoy took inspiration from traditional FJ models throughout the years for the ICON.)

The quality levels seem to be matching the performance/stylistic levels in terms of importance with new design - which is really a win-win for consumers. These days your product really needs to stand apart to garner attention from golfers who are spending less and expecting more. Welcome to 2009 in the retail world.

We suppose you'd like to know what we think of the shoe? Well. It's nice enough looking...specifically the all-white. We're quite scared Nike heads may not gravitate towards it. We know a few big Nike fans and we can tell you that they won't buy this shoe. It isn't spicy enough, it isn't sporty enough.

FootJoy just released photos of their new SPORT model shoe, due out next February, and it's fair to say that Nike has its work cut out to keep up. No, FootJoy does not pay us...

Adidas, meanwhile, is going to grab the crowd looking for a sportier shoe, as it has been for years - so we're not sure this Nike Golf shoe really has a niche in the market. We wish Nike the best, but we think their shoe design is severely trailing the rest of their development in apparel, equipment and accessories - it just seems flat for such a dynamic company. We'd be interested to know what people thought of Nike as a golf shoe...Let us know...

One thing these guys can agree on is a price, all (3) flagship pairs can be had for 250 clams - MSRP. Pricing on FJ SPORT to come.

-KC

State of the Union Address: Trousers

2009-10-05T10:11:00.011-04:00

(All photos the property of Getty Images/The Associated Press/Reuters Pictures)

At the KC we are absolutely obsessed with how our trousers fit - it's an unhealthy affliction...In the game of golf, your pant is often the only seriously tailored item in your arsenal, so the fit is simply paramount. We like a very trim pant that is slightly tapered so it sits nicely, exposing most all of the shoe - if we're going to buy an expensive pair of golf shoes, you're going to get a good look at them - sorry...

In the past few years, bootcut golf trousers have become extremely popular. Extreme bootcut models are offered by nearly every manufacturer/designer of modern golf apparel. Think Sligo, J. Lindeberg, Poulter Designs etc. We feel the same way about a fuller-cut, bootcut golf trouser as we do about a similarly bootcut jean - not going to wear it. While okay on taller individuals, they have a tendency to make you appear shorter and squatter and should be avoided on the shorter set. We realize that mobility and comfort are important to nearly every golfer and many find a trimmer pant constricting. That being said, the width of the bottoms of some of these golf trousers is becoming comical.

A pant that is cut slim throughout the hip and leg and flares slightly at the base is much more forgiving and makes a lot of sense for golf, as you get the benefits of a slimmer silhouette (avoiding the dreaded parachute effect) without feeling like if you bend down to analyze a putt, you're going to give the gallery the proper read on your arse.

Tony Q'aja introduced the v-slit at the bottom of Darren Clarke's trousers several years back and now seemingly every other golfer is touting the advantages in drape that the option provides. Many companies have also added zippers on their trousers, which allow the wearer to create that "v" by opening the zips slightly, which results in that same break on the top of the shoe. Personally, we think the now infamous "Euro V-Slit" looks nice, especially on a slimmer cut trouser like Luke Donald's RLX Green pant in the above photo, but is more of an aesthetic touch than anything performance-related.

The best looking trousers being worn on Tour these days, cut-wise, are on Henrik Stenson. His Hugo Boss pants are snug but not tight and the length is utter perfection - just hitting the top of the shoe. Honorable mentions include Luke Donald in RLX -the Apex cut is our favorite - Frenchman Raphael Jacquelin and Ryuji Imada. These guys are great models for the thinner set. For those with a little more girth, Phil Mickelson (Tom Ford) and Graeme McDowell (Q'aja Couture) are good guys to look for.

Cuffs you ask? Pleats? While flat-fronts have become de rigueur with Touring professionals, especially those under 35, pleats are still around and appear to be making a resurgence for spring/summer 2010. (We may have even seen some JL pleated trousers, shhh...) Something very Hogan or Jones-esque about pleats, cardigans and other things we're seeing come back to the game after some time away. Might be a nice change to take a cue from the gentlemanly 30's and 40's after a blast of the high-octane 70's.

Cuffs, meanwhile, are always acceptable - in fact, we'd love to see more cuffs on Tour. A nice, slim-cut trouser with a 2-inch cuff would look equally as beautiful in a gray cotton for summer or flannels for fall/winter. Many stylish members we see at clubs around the country are cuff guys and you can most certainly go with a cuff even if you're wearing flat-fronts. You can see a great example of this done by Milanese men.

In closing, we think it's fair to say that when it comes to pant preference, ask not what your trouser can do for you, but what you can do for your trouser...If you find a pair of golf trousers on sale or otherwise and want them to fit a certain way, take them to a trusty tailor and let them go to work. There are no real "rules" and any that exist are meant to be broken and reinterpreted - find what works for you and please, above all...Enjoy it. Golf fashion is fun.

-KC

Monday Inspirations: Alfred Dunhill Links Edition

2009-10-05T09:35:00.003-04:00

(All photos the property of Getty Images)

Friday Throwback

2009-10-02T12:56:00.007-04:00

After seeing the American Golfer collection from RL Polo Golf on Wednesday, I have found myself spending inordinate amounts of time online, reading about golfing legends from the first half of the 20th century. My favorite of the bunch is and always will be the opulent Walter Hagen - one of golf's great dandies. So this Friday Throwback is dedicated to him.

"The Haig" was:

The first athlete to earn $1 million playing a sport.

The first American to win the British Open.

The first sportsman named to the list of Best Dressed Americans.
"The first to grab the check

The last to leave the party..."

Enough said.

The KC's Suggestions of the Week

2009-10-02T12:29:00.007-04:00

This purple/navy Q'aja polo is a proven winner: Phil took the Tour Championship wearing a similar model.

The belt is JL's practically iconic Slater in a new twist for fall, snakeskin!

Two items to blow your paycheck on this Friday. Have your buddies buy the drinks...

-KC

Cat(ch) Us if You Can?

2009-10-02T11:54:00.006-04:00

(Photo the property of Getty Images)

I've got Puma on the brain today. First of all, I was just perusing Golfweek and, upon seeing a photo of Walker Cup hero Rickie Fowler, I promptly thought, "whoever signs this kid to wear their stuff is making a great move..." Fowler is a radical motherf**ker. Best-thing-since- Wonderbread type of creds...

Then, after noticing that Puma Golf was on Gilt Group today (polos for 28 bucks!!) I went over to the PG blog and was greeted with a post informing me that the marketing impresarios at Puma had already inked Rickie to a deal. Refer back to "Fowler is..."

I'm really looking forward to seeing the S/S 2010 Puma stuff. We've got our feelers out to the ladies at Puma, so don't go too far out into the wild world of the web without checking back in with your boys at the KC.

Check out this YouTube video of Rickie getting a serious welcome wagon from the kind folks over at Puma Golf. Thanks to Will.