While comfort and practicality are important aspects in guaranteeing maximum flexibility with every swing, you also want to look stylish when hitting a golf ball and landing a hole in one.
Look stylish on the golf course
The writer was invited to the CIMB Artober Fashion Week 2022 in Kuala Lumpur, where she interviewed the founders of the CARRO label, which showcased trendier looks in golf wear. CARRO is Malaysia’s first Designer Golf Polo Brand.
The art exhibition at KEN TTDI featured works by well-known Malaysian artists.
It was an interesting afternoon for many guests who saw an explosion of colours in a variety of styles in both art and fashion.
One thing that drew our attention was how traditional golf attire has evolved in recent years.
While comfort and practicality are important factors in ensuring maximum flexibility with every swing, you also want to look good when hitting a golf ball and landing a hole in one.
CARRO is a Malaysian brand founded by Swedish designer Caroline Wass, who is quick to point out that it is a collaborative effort between herself and Mark, who are both co-founders, creative team members, and life partners (husband and wife).
Carro is actually a nickname given to Wass by her late grandmother.
Q: Tell us about your activewear, particularly your golf wear.
A: With a positive response from golfers, we decided to refocus on designing Golf Polos. We launched our first golf polo collection in March of this year. The response was overwhelmingly positive. We were confident that we were on the right track. All patterns and designs are original. CARRO is easily identified by its distinct brightly coloured and bold geometric patterns. Many customers are surprised to learn that CARRO is a local brand and that our polos are made in Malaysia.
What makes your golf attire unique?
Our designs are the most unique feature of our Golf Polos. They are colourful and bold, so they stand out easily. When you see it, you know it’s a CARRO. We use anti-bacterial microfibre material that wicks sweat and dries quickly. It is also light and flexes with the body to allow for smooth movements. For a light and soft hand feel, sublimation technology is used to create the designs on the fabric.
What about the style?
The shirt has a button-down collar, a stylish long four-button placket, and side slits at the bottom of the body hem. The top stitching is kept to a minimum for a sleek look and maximum comfort. Can be worn fitted or loose.
Tell us about your recent collaboration with CIMB and the artist.
CARRO collaborated with upcoming Malaysian artist Haziq Syawal to create a limited edition Polo Collection in conjunction with the CIMB Artober Fashion Week 2022. CIMB provided us with a list of a few local artists with whom we could potentially collaborate. We contacted all of them, and Haziq was the first to respond. We met for coffee to get to know each other, and by God’s grace, we started right away. We got along great, and Caroline and Haziq could understand each other (although Mark had to do most of the translating).
Wass, the designer, liked how the artist painted, the method he used, and the way he experimented with colours.
According to her, Haziq appears to have the right attitude and a sweet smile, and they were glad they had similar beginnings.
Wass went through all of his previous work and one in particular stood out. And one element in that one painting spoke to her. It’s the protea!
The flower’s meaning is also significant. These flowers represent diversity, change, and courage.
“We informed Haziq of our intention to collaborate and briefed him on our concept; he was very receptive,” said Westwood, adding that when Wass was finished with a design proposal, they had a video call to show the ideas to Haziq.
His first impression was priceless. There were 15 designs to choose from, and he was told to select the best three that he liked.
“They’re all nice, how am I going to pick three?” said Haziq.
“We gave him a couple of days to think about it and make a decision, which he did. The three designs you see are the favourites of Haziq. We took his painting and gave it a CARRO twist,” said Westwood.
In addition to the pattern, the polos designed a special collaboration label and a unique feature, a red button at the top of the placket. Exclusive to the Haziq Syawal x CARRO Collection.
The rest of their Resort Collection is art-inspired as well. Fris-B, Shark Attack, Collage, Vibes, and Leafy are all pattern names inspired by nature and our surroundings.
Finally, we asked them regarding the state of the market for their particular style of fashion.
“Yes, we are in the right place at the right time. Golf Polos are becoming increasingly popular among golfers. Our designs make an impression both on and off the green,” they said.
Visit @mycarroworld (Instagram) and www.mycarroworld.com for more information.
