The Story of Allison Putnam and the Vision for A. PUTNAM

The journey to founding A. PUTNAM is a testament to the power of curiosity and a relentless drive to solve problems that matter not just for herself, but for a community of women seeking more from their wardrobes and their lives.

Foundation and Origin Story

Born and raised in Ohio, Ali was the middle child between two brothers, the daughter of a retired music teacher and a serial entrepreneur. Her early years were spent immersed in sports, being introduced to golf at age seven, though her main athletic focus was on field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. Alongside her love of sports, Ali was inspired by summers in Italy and a deep appreciation for fashion that began with designing her own outfits as a child.

Her academic path took her to Syracuse University, where she started as a ceramics major and lacrosse player before shifting to the business school, ultimately graduating with a dual major in Supply Chain Management and Entrepreneurship. This blend of creativity and operational expertise, influenced by her father’s entrepreneurial spirit, became the backbone of her professional life.

The Early Days and Spark of A. PUTNAM

Ali’s career spanned logistics, retail, manufacturing, and consulting, with roles at Sears, DSW, Crown Equipment, and as a global supply chain director for her family’s portfolio of companies. Throughout these years, she balanced a demanding work life with raising five boys, a feat she credits to teamwork, organization, and a passion for staying busy.

The idea for A. PUTNAM was born out of necessity and frustration. As a busy mom and an occasional golfer, Ali struggled to find clothing that fit her lifestyle: pieces that were polished enough for the course, versatile enough for meetings or dinner, and comfortable for the chaos of daily life. Most women’s golf apparel felt either too sporty, too revealing, or simply like a “golf costume” not something she wanted to wear outside of four rounds a year.

Prompted by her father during a family goal-setting session to reflect on her passions, Ali realized her love for fashion, art, and golf could be the foundation for something new. She dove into learning, taking a six-month online course on launching a sustainable clothing line, and began building the brand from the ground up.

Building the Brand: Focus and Refinement

A. PUTNAM officially launched at the 2023 PGA Show in Orlando, presenting a collection of high-end, classic golf apparel designed to transition seamlessly from the course to everyday life. The response was immediate accounts were secured, and the brand quickly resonated with women seeking sophistication, versatility, and authenticity in their wardrobes.

Ali’s approach to design is deeply personal. She creates clothing she herself would want to wear pieces that are elegant, modern, and intentionally crafted to meet the requirements of high-end golf clubs while also fitting into the broader context of her customers’ lives. The focus is on quality fabrics, functional design, and a polished aesthetic that stands apart from the casual athleisure trend.

The brand’s logo, an abstract crane wearing a crown in the shape of a Roman numeral five, is a nod to her family crest and her five boys, symbolizing grace, strength, and the values that underpin both her family and her company.

Wholesale Focus and Relationship-Building

From the outset, A. PUTNAM has prioritized wholesale partnerships, recognizing that lasting relationships with clubs especially those renowned for hospitality are key to reaching the right audience and building a sustainable business.This focus has allowed the brand to refine its collections, ensuring that every piece meets the standards of excellence expected by top clubs and their members.

The wholesale strategy isn’t just about sales; it’s about community. Ali and her team invest in understanding the needs of club professionals and their members, building trust and fostering connections that go beyond transactions. This relationship-driven approach has led to partnerships with prestigious clubs and has positioned A. PUTNAM as a brand that supports women not just as golfers, but as multifaceted individuals with rich, busy lives.

A Vision Beyond Golf

At its core, A. PUTNAM is about more than golf. It’s about empowering women to feel confident, capable, and authentic whether they’re on the course, in a boardroom, or at dinner with friends. The brand’s community includes women who may never pick up a club, but who share a desire for clothing that matches their ambition, style, and sense of self.

Ali’s vision is to make A. PUTNAM the go-to brand for women seeking elegant, functional, and versatile apparel garments that inspire confidence and encourage women to do more with less, to embrace curiosity, and to connect meaningfully with others.