Inspired by our styling work with Beaumont, a 24-year-old heir to a venerable Southern textile fortune, this article will guide you through the verdant pastures of country club chic attire.
Born and raised on the pristine greens of his family’s exclusive country club, Beaumont was no stranger to the traditions of preppy style.
However, he found himself in a bit of a sartorial sand trap when infusing his look with a more laid-back, approachable charm.
“I want to maintain the polish and poise that’s expected of me but I also yearn to break free from the stuffy confines of the typical country club attire.”
Together, we embarked on a style odyssey, crafting five brilliant ensembles that perfectly encapsulated the essence of relaxed old-money elegance.
The impact on Beaumont’s social standing was nothing short of remarkable – he became the talk of the clubhouse, effortlessly charming his fellow members and even catching the eye of a lovely debutante or two.
Now, let’s tee off and explore the five essential country club aesthetic ideas that will have you looking like a modern-day Gatsby with a laid-back twist.
1. The Fairway Stroll
For a casual walk along the pristine fairways of your beloved country club, opt for a soft cotton polo shirt in a muted seafoam green hue from Ralph Lauren Purple Label, featuring the brand’s iconic embroidered pony logo.
Pair this with light khaki linen trousers from Incotex, renowned for their unparalleled fit and exquisite Italian craftsmanship.
Complete the look with a pair of dark brown leather penny loafers from Alden, a brand synonymous with timeless American style, and a woven leather belt in a rich chestnut hue from Brunello Cucinelli.
Accessorize with a vintage Rolex Datejust in stainless steel and yellow gold, a timepiece that perfectly embodies the essence of old money sophistication, and a pair of tortoiseshell clubmaster sunglasses from Persol, adding a touch of classic Hollywood glamour to your ensemble.
2. The Terrace Luncheon
When attending a relaxed luncheon on the sun-dappled terrace of your club’s dining room, embrace the timeless charm of seersucker.
Start with a pale blue and white striped seersucker sports coat from Brooks Brothers, a brand that has been a staple of preppy style for nearly two centuries.
Layer this over a crisp white cotton Oxford shirt from Turnbull & Asser, a British institution renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Pair these with light gray tropical wool trousers from Zanella, a brand celebrated for its luxurious fabrics and impeccable tailoring.
Finish the ensemble with chestnut brown suede tassel loafers from Edward Green.
This Northampton-based shoemaker epitomizes the pinnacle of English craftsmanship and a woven silk tie in a complementary pale yellow hue from Charvet, a Parisian powerhouse of refined neckwear.
3. The Garden Party
As the sun begins to set and the garden party festivities commence, opt for an outfit that seamlessly blends old-money elegance with a touch of whimsical charm.
Begin with a soft pink linen shirt from Charvet featuring a green embroidered floral motif along the collar and placket.
Pair this with light cream cotton twill trousers from Incotex, celebrated for their superior comfort and ease of wear.
Layer on a light blue cashmere cardigan from Loro Piana, a brand synonymous with unparalleled luxury and sophistication.
Complete the look with a pair of dark brown suede Belgian loafers from Rubinacci, a Neapolitan brand renowned for its effortless sprezzatura, and a woven leather belt in a complementary tan hue from Anderson’s, a family-owned Italian brand that has been crafting exceptional accessories since 1966.
4. The Tennis Court Spectator
When cheering on your fellow club members at a spirited tennis tournament, opt for an outfit combining sporty elegance and old-money flair.
Start with a crisp white cotton tennis shirt from Fred Perry, a brand with an illustrious history in tennis fashion.
Tuck this into a pair of light gray wool flannel trousers from Loro Piana.
These trousers feature a relaxed, pleated silhouette that allows for ease of movement.
Layer on a navy blue cotton cable-knit tennis sweater from Ralph Lauren Purple Label, an iconic American brand long associated with the preppy aesthetic.
Complete the look with a pair of white leather low-top sneakers from Common Projects, a brand that has redefined the luxury sneaker market with its minimalist designs and impeccable quality, and a braided leather belt in a rich navy hue from Ettinger.
This British brand holds a Royal Warrant from the Prince of Wales.
5. The Fireside Chat
As the evening chill sets in and you retire to the cozy confines of your club’s fireside lounge, embrace the rich textures and warm hues that define autumnal style.
Begin with a camel-colored cashmere turtleneck from Brunello Cucinelli, a brand that epitomizes laid-back luxury.
Pair this with a set of dark brown corduroy trousers from Incotex.
These trousers feature a soft, brushed texture that lends a vintage-inspired charm to your ensemble.
Layer on a dark green wool tweed sports coat from J.Press, a venerable American brand that has been a favorite of the Ivy League set for nearly a century.
Finish the look with a pair of dark brown suede Chelsea boots from Crockett & Jones, a British shoemaker renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless designs, and a woven cashmere scarf in a rich burgundy hue from Begg & Co.
This Scottish brand has been producing the finest woolen accessories since 1866.
Dos and Don’ts
To ensure you effortlessly navigate the sartorial landscape of the country club, keep these essential style guidelines in mind:
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In the final analysis, mastering the art of the country club aesthetic is all about striking the perfect balance between old-money sophistication and laid-back, approachable charm.
By incorporating these five essential outfit formulas and adhering to the sartorial wisdom of the do’s and don’ts, you’ll embody the spirit of relaxed refinement, turning heads and leaving a lasting impression on the fairways, terraces, and fireside lounges of your beloved country club.
Tee Off in Style with The VOU
Gentlemen, navigating the nuanced world of country club fashion can seem as daunting as sinking a hole-in-one from the back tees, but fear not, for The VOU is here to serve as your personal style caddie.
Imagine yourself strolling along the perfectly manicured greens, confidently sporting an ensemble that seamlessly blends Old Money heritage with contemporary flair.
At The VOU, our team of seasoned style aficionados will work tirelessly to curate a bespoke country club wardrobe that reflects your unique personality and aspirations.
We’ll help you navigate the vast array of sartorial options, ensuring that every garment and accessory you select is a testament to your discerning taste and unwavering commitment to elegance.
So, why spend another moment lost in the rough of fashion uncertainty?
Take a mulligan on your current style choices, find your unique style with The VOU’s fashion style analysis today, and prepare to elevate your country club-style game to new heights.
