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Golf Bosses Accused Of 'Body Shaming' After Crackdown On Short Skirts And More

The LPGA's idea of what's par for the course does not match society's.
American golfer Paige Spirinac doesn't look too impressed at the fact she won't be able to wear this outfit anymore.
David Cannon via Getty Images
American golfer Paige Spirinac doesn't look too impressed at the fact she won't be able to wear this outfit anymore.

Bosses of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) in the U.S. are cracking down on the attire which players can wear in competition -- and even at events off the course.

This is an unusual development, as dress standards in both the men's and women's game have loosened over the years, and it means outfits -- like the one at the top of this story worn by U.S. golfer Paige Spiranac, and the one worn below by Michelle Wie -- would no longer be allowed.

If she walked down the street in this, no one would blink.
NurPhoto via Getty Images
If she walked down the street in this, no one would blink.

In an email sent a few days ago, LPGA player president Vicki Goetze-Ackerman informed players there would be some new rules. She capped the word NOT several times for emphasis. The email reads as follows:

  • Racerback with a mock or regular collar are allowed (no collar = no racerback)
  • Plunging necklines are NOT allowed.
  • Leggings, unless under a skort or shorts, are NOT allowed
  • Length of skirt, skort, and shorts MUST be long enough to not see your bottom area (even if covered by under shorts) at any time, standing or bent over.
  • Appropriate attire should be worn to pro-am parties. You should be dressing yourself to present a professional image. Unless otherwise told "no," golf clothes are acceptable. Dressy jeans are allowed, but cut-offs or jeans with holes are NOT allowed.
  • Workout gear and jeans (all colors) NOT allowed inside the ropes
  • Joggers are NOT allowed

As you might expect, not every golfer is a fan. Paige Spiranac, who is well known for her fabulous outfits, had a dry response when asked for her thoughts.

Translation: why is looking like a slob OK but looking fantastic isn't? Some have even suggested the crackdown is tantamount to "body shaming".

Heather Daly-Donofrio, a former pro golfer who is now the LPGA tour's communications and tour operations officer, told Golf Digest that the new dress code "requires players to present themselves in a professional manner to reflect a positive image for the game".

"While we typically evaluate our policies at the end of the year, based on input from our players, we recently made some minor adjustments to the policy to address some changing fashion trends. The specifics of the policy have been shared directly with the members," she said.

This skirt will be a big no for Lydia Ko, the Kiwi world number four.
Elsa via Getty Images
This skirt will be a big no for Lydia Ko, the Kiwi world number four.

Golf is of course one of the oldest, most conservative sports on earth. It's possible the sport is moving to protect its traditional values and give it a real point of difference in the modern, crowded sporting marketplace. There's also an argument that women have the right to wear whatever the heck they choose within the limits of decency.

It appears most golfers are adopting the latter view.

The new rules came into effect this week. Players will be fined $1,000 for each breach, and double that thereafter.

I love golf. I love the golf swing. I love learning everything I can about the game. I love practicing. I don't love competing and that's a fight I've been dealing with the last few years. People think that "making it" is just about ability but there's so much more to it. Especially with golf, being mentally strong is 90% of the game. Last year I was beat up mentally and was dealing with more than anyone could imagine behind closed doors. It took a toll on me and I started to hate this game I love so dearly. I played around 20 tournaments, made money in all but 2 and got a win as my first year as a pro. However I hated every second of it and was having breakdowns because of all the harassment, death threats, and other problems I wish to keep private. This year I have taken some time off from competing to focus on myself and my passions which is being an ambassador for cyberbullying, doing clinics for young girls and boys, and creating fun videos to hopefully help grow the game. Within this time I've been grinding on my swing and fitness and it's by far the best my swing as felt ever. I appreciate all the support and thank you for following my journey! I always try to be as honest as possible about what I'm going through in hopes I can help others but also show that no matter how perfect or easy someone's life might appear on social media that we are all dealing with our own personal battles. Again thank you for following and always making my day better with every positive comment☺️😘❤️

A post shared by Paige Spiranac (@_paige.renee) on

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