OUT OF NO WEAR!
LPGA dress code debate should be left to the ladies
Far too many times in our society, men feel as if they have the right to debate, discuss, or legislate on how women dress, or what they should do with their bodies. This column isn’t one of those instances. When the Marathon Classic begins this week in Toledo, Ohio, the LPGA’s new dress code will be in full effect. The new dress code no longer allows: l Joggers l Plunging necklines l Racerbacks without a mock or regular collar
l Skirts, skorts or shorts that do not sufficiently cover a player’s “bottom area”
l Leggings, unless they are worn under a skort or shorts
“We simply updated our existing policy with minor clarifications, which were directed by our members, for our members. This is not a regression, but rather a clarification for members of the policy, with references relevant to today’s fashion styles,” said the LPGA chief communications and tour operations officer Heather DalyDonofrio to ABC NEWS. “There was not meant to be, nor will there be, a discernible difference to what players are currently wearing out on Tour.”
The decision sparked a reaction from women around the globe from both sides of the table. Some agree with the dress code and feel that the game should focus on a woman’s talent and athleticism and not her physique or appearance, while others look at this as just another example of how the conservative nature of golf is the reason it’s out of touch with younger generations.
(And really, doesn’t the LPGA have bigger things to worry about; after all, the just-completed U.S. Open had the lowest final round TV ratings in 30 years, with a microscopic 0.6 rating!)
However, ESPNW Columnist Sarah Spain’s recent comments on the matter during a conversation on “Good Morning America” are an example of how this dress code is a microcosm of what women deal with every day.
“In our society, we have a lot of trouble separating women from their sexuality,” she said. “It feels like the men’s dress code is really about tradition and professionalism, and it feels like the women’s dress code — particularly the way it’s written in all caps — feels like it’s chastising. It’s really not about what’s best for the golf game or tradition or professionalism, it’s really about that fear of sexualization.” The LPGA’s new dress code made me think of a recent campaign by Nike that promoted its new Flyknit sports bra, which is supposed to be the best undergarment for women on the market, allowing women of all shapes and sizes to be comfortable while competing or exercising.
But this isn’t the first time we’ve seen the company take a progressive approach to female sports. Recently, Nike launched a sports hijab specifically designed for Muslim female athletes.
In both cases, inclusion across the board in women’s sports was the focal point.
I’m not sure if that’s the case with the LPGA’s dress code, and that’s OK because it’s not for me or about me.
This is something that women should freely discuss and debate without men weighing in with their own two-cents. How often do women have a say on male dress codes or men’s bodies?
As a columnist, it is my job to touch on subjects and share my opinions. But with that should come the power of discernment, and knowing when to pick your spots. And this is one of those times. So, to all the other male sports columnists out there: Gentlemen, please join me in sitting this one out.