What to wear to a golf tournament? - YouLookFab Forum

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Dressing

What to wear to a golf tournament?

Meredith

Veteran

I just learned I will be attending a golf tournament for two days this spring. I don't play or watch golf, so I really have no idea what to expect. I googled images of the event and the vibe seems sporty casual. I only saw a few people in blue denim, women equally likely to wear dresses or polos. Lots of baseball hats. Do any of you have practical recommendations about what to wear to be appropriate and comfortable?

Dressing

20 replies

Latest reply was from Meredith

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

VERY casual, and Athleisure would not be out of place - although I would wear non-athlectic casual clothes.

They're sold out, Meredith, but you needed these.

Hot Sox Dachsunds Crew Socks (3 for $15)

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JAileen

Veteran

We have a PGA tournament here. I've gone as a ticket buying spectator, and also as a volunteer, working in a booth. Our local course is very hilly. I would wear extremely comfortable shoes, layers in case it's windy or rainy (obviously check the forecast), a good hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Meredith

Veteran

Thanks for the direction, Angie, and I do need those socks! So sad they are sold out.

Anonymous

I'd start with comfortable shoes. Not sure if you will be walking to follow a player, or hanging out in a tent with food and bleachers, but there can be a lot of standing involved. If it is hot, I would still recommend light layers to keep sun off you (and your legs if you were sitting in shorts). I also like long pants because bugs have a way of biting my legs with all the grass you are around. It can also be dusty. Wow - I'm making this sound really fun, huh? My point is, dress for comfort and sun protection.

Gaylene

Veteran

Golf courses vary widely in their dress codes. Some of the older, more prestigious ones still ban jeans, for example. If the course has a dress code, it is usually clearly stated on the website.

In general, I'd say sporty casual veering towards a country club vibe would be safe for outdoor events. Dining rooms and indoor events might require smart casual if the course is an older, more conservative one. My "uniform" for being a spectator at a PGA event is a nice pair of comfortable pants; a soft, tucked-in, buttoned and collared shirt; and a cashmere sweater (if necessary). I throw on a windbreaker and a hat if the weather requires it. Seems to work both indoors and outdoors

Meredith

Veteran

Haha, Delurked. I'm glad to know about any adverse conditions in advance but will hope for the best. I think light-weight pants are a good option for me.

JAileen, great advice! It could be hot or cold with a reasonable chance of rain, so I will definitely plan on layers.

Meredith

Veteran

Gaylene: Thank you! I think your formula sounds very appropriate for the setting. It's in the southern U.S., a region where people seem to dress on the more polished end of the casual spectrum. I don't think we'll attend any events or meals indoors, but I will check with our hosts.

sylvie55

(website)

To watch golf, I usually wear a linen popover blouse and chino ankle pants in white or soft colors with walkable sandals . A straw hat is also a good idea.

rachylou

Veteran

As Gaylene says. I wouldn't wear jeans. And I'd be in my straw cloche. Sun and wind protection, but not so big as to rudely block anyone's view, lol.

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Gaylene

Veteran

Sylvia, your outfit sounds perfect for Meredith's southern US golf courses.!

I'm giggling because my golf experience is so obviously from links courses in more northerly places like Canada, Scotland, and England. I forget there are places where you can golf without wind and rain!

Anonymous

Gaylene - and I am thinking desert heat and more casual hoping she doesn't get overheated.

Anonymous

Great suggestions all, but I agree that given the time and place sylvie55's suggestions are spot on!
And sunscreen - lots and lots of sunscreen. Even if it is chilly, you will be in the sun for hours.

Meredith

Veteran

Keep the suggestions coming! I have family in the area and have visited often enough to understand the weather, so I will adjust your suggestions to suit the climate.

Gaylene: Rain is a very real possibility! In fact, it rains almost every time I visit this particular place, so I will be prepared with a raincoat!

Sylvie: I'm lamenting the demise of my white cropped chinos. They seem like they would be perfect. Might have to scour eBay for a replacement.

Rachey: Thanks for the reminder about the scale of the hat!

Ryce: Thanks for weighing in, and I won't forget the sunscreen!

Meredith

Veteran

Ok, so based on your feedback I'm thinking:

Bottoms: Lightweight chinos or some other cropped pant

Top: Casual shirt (not tee), probably in a fun color or print, because I associate color with Southern dressing

Shoes: Tennis shoes or comfy sandal (leaning tennis shoes in case the weather is cool)

Topper: Sweater and rain jacket

Accessories: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

Anonymous

I'd personally take the opportunity to wear a golf skirt, zip front jacket and a collared shirt (if this is a PGA event at a private club where the dress code may demand it). There are such great-looking women's golf apparel lines out there now- with pieces absolutely suited for lots of other occasions. I've been to many PGA events though and am surprised what some people decide is appropriate to wear to a tournament - ugh. And for shoes - definitely leather sneakers if you don't have golf shoes.

Meredith

Veteran

Thanks, Lisa! I have a friend who reps golf apparel and I know she has a particular women's line she loves, so I will check with her on tops and toppers. Why leather sneakers specifically? Just curious!

Gaylene

Veteran

Lisa, if I had your legs, I'd definitely be in golf skirt, too!

Meredith, your outfit sounds perfect. I don't think it's necessary to buy golf clothing unless you plan to take up golf yourself or find pieces you'll want to wear for other activities.

I can't speak for Lisa, but I think her leather sneakers comment was to steer you away from those multi-colored, neon athletic shoes which are so popular these days. A comfortable, classic tennis shoe with a good sole which won't cause you to slip on wet grass should be fine.

Private golf clubs can be quite conservative when it comes to dress codes, at least in my experience. That conservatism, however, gets thrown out the window when it comes to colour. I've had a hard time keeping from laughing when some old coot wearing pink and green plaid trousers with an orange and blue striped shirt starts ranting about dress codes. Golfers are the original maximalists!

Meredith

Veteran

Gaylene: "Golfers are the original maximalists." Love it!

I really appreciate all the advice, everyone!

Anonymous

Gaylene can speak for me anytime But she's right. My leather sneaker comment was totally subjective - I just think it looks more authentic and put-together than wearing mesh/nylon runners. Golf is so rooted in tradition, dress included. *disclaimer* - I am particularly observant and opinionated about golf and anything to do with it. Ignore my comments as you wish

Meredith

Veteran

Lisa, thanks for the clarification and I absolutely appreciate hearing your observations and opinions. Golf was not part of my upbringing and the first time I visited a country club (as a college student) I remember feeling so embarrassed and surprised when told that the straps of my dress were inappropriate. So I'm vaguely aware that there are do's and don'ts, but am somewhat mystified by what they are. That's why I'm thankful for this forum!