Q&A with Gabbi Pranger, Merchandiser at St. Louis Country Club

Alex Elias

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​​Why do you believe golfers, myself included, are obsessed with logos?

Logos give people something to talk about and to connect on. I hear stories all the time about someone who was a thousand miles away from their home club, a person recognized the logo they were wearing, and there was an instant connection between two strangers that never would have sparked a conversation otherwise. As someone who loves logos, I think it's fun to talk about them, rank your Top-5 with friends, and buy merchandise that you can't get anywhere else.
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What brands do you enjoy working with most? 

Men - Holderness and Bourne, B. Draddy, and Sid Mashburn (a sneaky new one to look out for) Women - Renwick, Smith and Quinn, Fairway & Greene

Although solid and striped polos tend to still be worn the most, patterned polos are becoming increasingly popular. Have you noticed a shift in golfers becoming more creative?

I think golfers have become much more creative! Women's golf alone has grown so much in the past few years. I'd like to think it has a lot to do with the options they have now. I always preach to wear what makes you feel most comfortable so that you can have more fun and are less likely to focus on what you shot. I grew up playing golf in my older brother's polos and sneakers. I wish I had had bright pink shoes to rock! I do think it has had a positive effect on golf, and women's golf specifically. 

What other recent trends have you noticed? 

Hoodies, hoodies and hoodies. Though my opinion may be slightly skewed since the clubs I have worked at tend to be a little more conservative, I do see golfers getting more creative and showing more personality. But I also see a shift back to the classics. More knit tops, crew neck sweaters, and traditional leather saddle shoes.

As I love to wear Holderness & Bourne, I greatly appreciate how I can wear H&B on the course, in the office, or at dinner. Have you noticed members gravitating towards products with versatility? 

​Yes! I get asked all the time for sweaters and trousers that people can wear to work. Something that those people like is putting the logo as a tonal color to blend into their sweater. That way it's still there, but it can be worn to the office and not jump out at anyone. For women, it tends to be more athleisure wear such as sweaters, or dresses that you can wear to play golf but also running errands.