(BNN) There was a time when one of the most familiar marital clichés was "the golf widow"-- the housewife condemned to be "home alone" on weekends while her husband played day-long rounds of golf with his buddies. Today the "golf widow" has been replaced in large measure by a more upbeat, modern female symbol ––"the golfing bride."

Lizgolf striped polo sweater and corduroy shorts

More and more newlywed couples are choosing golfing honeymoons--in which they combine post-nuptial romance with exhilarating rounds of play on an inviting, well-manicured golf course, be it close to home or in some exotic distant destination.

Golf enthusiasts and even those who are aspiring golfers, are heading for any of a variety of resorts whose luxuries include golf courses that are appealing and challenging. Bermuda, for instance, always a honeymoon favorite, has nine golf courses in just 21 square miles and boasts the Tucker’s Point Golf, Beach & Tennis Club and the Fairmont Southampton with its quick round executive course. Or there’s Jamaica and SuperClubs Grand Lido Braca Resort where couples take a golf lesson together at one of the three golf courses open to guests.

So if the plan is to head for Mexico, Hawaii (which has more than 80 courses) or the Caribbean, brides must be ready to hit the links in style and dressed to a tee.

No golfer would step out without top-notch clubs, bag and balls. Likewise, those who want to hit straight-on drives and sink lengthy putts in perfect form or just want to look great and feel comfortable seek out clothes that are functional, flattering and fabulous.

Top fashion companies have identified the women’s golf trend. For example, Liz Claiborne’s Lizgolf collection (www.lizgolf.com) includes polo shirts, skorts, cropped pants, Bermuda shorts and outerwear in vivid colors like Confetti Pink, Pasture Green and Oasis Blue. Performance-driven and fashion-inspired, the Lizgolf line provides sophisticated styles perfect for on and off the green.

From nautical looks to splashy prints and florals, these versatile golf separates offer fresh style easily transitioning to off-course activities. And with the added benefit of water-repellence on outerwear pieces, golfing brides are sure to weather any storms on the course.

At a time when couples are planning unique and personalized weddings, so too, honeymoons are taking on a special theme. For golfers, the sport seems to add to the romance; experiencing nature at its best surrounded by spectacular vistas with breathtaking flowers and lush, centuries-old trees.

Whether the newlywed bride is putting in the tropical sun or merely enjoying her husband’s company, ultra-feminine sportswear will ensure confidence in her look as well as her game. A few easy pieces and she is ready to take on the course with fresh, bold colors and patterns complimenting her honeymoon glow.

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