Recent updates to the LPGAs (Ladies Professional Golf Association) dress code is raising a great deal of controversy.
The tightened rules have sparked some heated debates, with critics using social media backlash to call the dress code everything from weird to unfair from supporters calling the updates par for professionalism and neatness for women and professional golfers.
So whats in LPGAs new dress code, which carries a $1,000 fine for not adhering to the rules?
Only collared racerback shirts are allowed. No plunging necklines or joggers. Unless under shorts or skorts, leggings are forbidden. Skirts, shorts, and skorts dont have a specific measurement, but they must be long enough that the bottom area is covered at all times. It also outlines a professional imagine dress code for pro-am parties and ropes.
Anya Alvarez, a writer for The Guardian, asks some very sensible questions of the new rules and how the LPGA plans on policing their new policies, including how will a plunging neckline be quantified since women have different bust sizes, and what does a bottom area include?
Golf.com writer Marika Washchyshyn says that women players want to be comfortable and look good. Many critics think the new rules accomplish neither. Even though she doesnt play on the LPGA Tour, Female golfer Paige Spiranac, whos commonly seen on the green wearing shorter and tighter golfing clothing, is amongst the many not thrilled with the new rules. Paige recently tweeted: “Untucked shirts, and clothes that don’t fit (too tight or loose) should be added.
Because I think that looks unprofessional as well too. Shes also said in interview that the new rule is another reason for women to feel ashamed of their bodies and feel the need to alter behavior against outside perception to be respected. According to female golfer Michelle Wie, I have been slightly fighting with them for the whole year after a couple of her outfits raised a few eyebrows and prompted some discussions.
Charley Hull, a British female golfer weighed in that she isnt personally affected because she doesnt wear anything included in the new rules. However, she went on to say: I think its a shame, as many people label golf as old fashioned and we need to move away from that.
Meanwhile, LGPA has said that players had been expecting slight changes and minor changes leading up to the policy’s announcement.
Initially, LPGAs chief communications and tour operations officer downplayed the dress code changes as addressing changing fashion trends. The officer said that it was based on input from players and simply requires all players to present themselves professionally to reflect a positive image of golf.
In addressing the rising social media backlash and debate, LPGA continues their efforts to downplay and offset, calling the social media comments much ado about nothing as they reiterate how it was only minor clarifications to address todays fashion styles, that is was directed by members for members, not meant to be regressive, and wont be a discernible difference to current clothing seen on Tour.
