The Masters (of expression)

An appreciation for subtle style in uniform

The state of Georgia has an incredible amount of sporting history. It exists as the home to teams like the Braves, Hawks, Falcons, United, Bulldogs, and Yellow Jackets. As a local here myself, I’ve always indulged in these teams, even some of those no longer around (I still miss my Thrashers). But even outside of local talent, the state of Georgia has had some unique opportunities to host world renowned sporting events. In 1996, Atlanta had the opportunity to host the Olympic games and in 2026 we will have the chance to host the Fifa World Cup. These events are two of the greatest to ever grace the state, but there is one event that holds world attention and is known as the true classic… The Masters.

We’re right around the corner now from “A tradition unlike any other” in Augusta, Georgia and I can’t wait to see what unfolds. As I’ve been gearing up for this years tournament, I’ve gone back to look at some of the pictures taken there in the past. While doing this, something interesting stood out to me. Often times when talking about The Masters, it’s easy to discuss the style of wear for the golfers participating in the tournament; whether that’s Tiger’s classic red polo or the incredible style of Arnold Palmer. Even so, it’s also a unique scene to find the patrons at the event wearing all kinds of cool and interesting looks. However, one certain person stood out to me in some of these old photos. This time, it was neither the athletes nor the patrons, but rather it was the caddies.

For years now, The Masters have required the caddies of the athletes to wear white jumpsuits with their respective pros. As with any profession that requires a uniform, it can sometimes feel a bit dry to do so. Having to wear the same thing time and time again, begins to wear on your spirit if you’re an expressive individual like myself. Though the rule of the jumpsuit is in place, there doesn’t seem to be many rules involved in the accessories surrounding the uniform. I’m no expert on Augusta caddie dress code, but from what I can make based on photos, it seems as though the caddies have a lot of freedom in expressing how they wear them.

Chuck Taylors, Popped collars, rolled sleeves, facial hair, button ups, and graphic tees.
All of these things seem to be acceptable attire within the base of the jumpsuit.

The gentleman in the right here is one of my absolute favorites. The unzipped jumpsuit, with the popped collar matching green polo and the roper hat. The outfit speaks nothing but cool.

I also love how this caddie for Jack Nicklaus really outdid himself by choosing to let his undershirt sing bright outside of the collar and sleeves of his uniform.

Or we even have some caddies deciding to forgo the undershirt entirely while having a dart.

There’s something special about The Masters in Augusta, Georgia. The colors of green, white, yellow, and red are forever engrained in psyche of the local Georgia population. So while you’re watching this year, be sure to look out for the style past the green. You’ll not only find it in the athletes hitting the course, but you’ll likely find something special in the men in white who make it all possible for this tradition to continue.