Jan6
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Golf is basically in our blood. My husband has been to the Masters every year for over 20 years. His dad is a golf pro. His brother has played in the tournament. I’ve even been to the Masters.
So I know a thing or two about showing up to a golf tournament and looking like you belong there.
Most people headed to a golf tournament aren’t going to Augusta. They’re going to the PGA Championship, a local charity scramble, or an outing at a nice course. The dress code for those is more relaxed, more accessible, but still a step up from your average weekend outfit.
Here’s what works, and what you can skip.
What to Wear to a Golf Tournament
Dresses
One of the things I appreciate about golf is that it’s a dressy sport. Even as a spectator, looking polished is part of the culture. A nice sundress or true golf dress is one of the easiest golf tournament outfits for ladies to put together, because it’s one piece and you’re done.
A couple of things to keep in mind: watch the length, since you’ll probably sit on the grass at some point. I always wear shorts underneath my dresses, and it makes the day so much more comfortable. Also, since most tournaments are in the heat of summer, look for cotton or linen blends that breathe well.
Everett Linen Dress
If you’re unsure, get this linen dress. Linen is one of the best fabrics for a hot summer day, and this dress is light and breathable. Pair it with white sneakers for a really clean, simple look. The one thing I’d note is you’ll probably want to take a much smaller woven bag like this, unless you want to take lots of snacks or are bringing your kiddos.
Sleeveless Cotton Polo Dress
A polo dress is one of the most golf-appropriate pieces you can put on. It’s a style that is appropriate whether you’re at a major PGA event or a local charity tournament. This one is sleeveless so you stay cool, and the polo collar makes it look intentional. Pair it with white sneakers and simple sunglasses, and you’re completely done. You can throw a light cardigan over the waist if the temperature is cooler.
If you like the look of the polo dress above, but want something a little more structured, the Tuckernuck Pique Margaret Polo Dress is it. The pique fabric gives it a really classic look, and the polo detail keeps it completely course-appropriate. Not to mention, the ruffle detail on the placket is darling. A solid pick if you want to look a little more dressed up without going overboard.
Hill House Nap Dress
If you’ve seen my blog post on the Hill House Nap Dress, you already know this had to be included for a golf tournament. You can wear the Ellie Nap Dress everywhere, and it’s ideal for a golf tournament since it’s lightweight and breezy. The maxi length is nice too, so you can sit, stand, and move around without feeling exposed. I love this one.
Note: Swap the sandals for sneakers… you’ll be MUCH more comfortable.
Atlas Dress
I included this dress as a Master’s outfit because it’s an investment, but it’s too cute not to include here, too. This is for when you want something with more personality. It’s a floral midi, so it’s more feminine and a little bolder than the polo options. Still completely appropriate for a golf tournament, just more of a statement.
This Asbury Mini Dress has the same idea, just a different length. Another great option if you want something with more personality. It’s a printed option that’s fun and flirty. Pair it with simple accessories and white sneakers, and you’re set.
Malena Striped Dress
From the same brand as the dress above, this blue stripe midi is crisp and clean. The belted feature of this dress is super classy, and the seersucker adds a fun, new texture that’s still breathable. The stripe keeps it from feeling too plain, and the silhouette is really flattering.
Sleeveless Charlie Dress
Navy, sleeveless, comfortable, and really clean. The Tuckernuck Charlie Dress is easy to style and goes with literally everything, which is why it’s one of my most-worn Tuckernuck dresses. A no-fuss option if you want something that works with almost any shoe.
Pink Peach Maxi Dress
The Pink Peach Charlotte Maxi from Tuckernuck is a good pick if you want more coverage or something in a softer color palette. The maxi length is comfortable for a long day on the course, and the pink peach color is pretty without being too bright.
Navy Chino Rhoda Mini Dress
I’m really into chino pieces this year, so once I saw this chino mini dress, I immediately bought it. This is a fun mini that’s still long enough and completely appropriate for golf events. The chino fabric keeps it from feeling too casual, and like the dress above, it pairs well with white sneakers.
Maxi Shirtdress
Another favorite of mine. No matter if you’re going to a casual golf tournament or a major PGA Tour event, this maxi shirtdress is a winner. The one-size fit is SO easy. Frank & Eileen’s pieces are worth the investment.
This dress also comes in a shorter length that’s just as classic and easy. If you already love Frank & Eileen, you know the quality. If you don’t, this is a good introduction.
Natalee Midi Dress
A pretty white and blue striped midi that would be stunning at an outdoor summer tournament. The silhouette is softer than the shirtdress options, so it has a more romantic feel, especially with its A-line cut. You could just as easily pair this with white sneakers and sandals as you could a block or kitten heel (off the course, obviously).
Striped Pleated Midi Shirtdress
I got this pleated striped dress in green last year and have seen it pop up in lots of different colors. I found it in a blue stripe color, which is beautiful, and I can’t recommend it enough for a dress you’ll feel good in all day at a golf tournament. The pleated detail makes the dress in my opinion, and it’s so flattering. Throw on with a cute straw hat, and you’ll be best dressed for sure!
Any of these dresses pair well with my favorite white sneakers.
Sets and Rompers
If a dress doesn’t feel like you, a matching set or romper is a great alternative golf tournament outfit. These are a couple I’m excited to wear this summer:
Stroll Skirt Set
I just got this Stroll Skirt Set from LAKE and LOVE it. It’s not only a really cute option, but extremely comfortable. The stripes keep it interesting and elevate the look so it’s not too casual.
Gingham Romper
A romper is a hack in my opinion. One piece, zero fuss, inherently polished, and one of the most comfortable things you can wear for a full day of walking the course. The green and white gingham version is both flattering and practical. Pair with white sneakers and even throw on a wide-brimmed straw hat like this.
Separates
If you want to mix and match, the Crochet Sleeveless Top with the C’est Tout Skort is such a good combo. The skort is the move for a golf tournament and I feel pretty confident saying that. It looks like a skirt, functions like shorts, and you never have to think twice about sitting down or a gust of wind.
For shorts, the Navy Ruth Shorts, Quince Stretch Crepe Pleated Shorts, and Heritage Chino Shorts are all appropriate options. Pair any of them with a collared or structured top and you’ve got a clean, golf-ready look.
White Jeans and a Blouse
If you’re going to a tournament on a cooler day, white jeans are a completely appropriate golf tournament outfit. Blue jeans are generally not golf-appropriate, but white jeans are an exception that works really well.
The white jeans I love most are Levi’s, and fit true to size, but I have to give an honorable mention to these white Paige jeans since they’re the perfect white and so flattering. (I have a full white jeans review if you want more details.) Pair with something lightweight and collared on top, and you’ve got a really polished look.
True Golf Attire
Some women go full golf attire as a spectator, and it looks great. A skort with a collared top tucked in is completely appropriate and honestly one of the most comfortable options for a long day on the course. If this is more your style, I have a whole post on cute women’s golf clothes.
Sneakers
The first thing my father-in-law said when he saw my outfit for my first Master’s was: “Sandals are a rookie mistake.” He was right. You will walk and stand for hours, and you need shoes that can handle that.
My VEJA sneakers are my go-to since they’re already broken in. If you’re buying new sneakers specifically for the tournament, break them in before you go. Or, if you want to opt for something a little sportier, go with Adidas Sambas. Both sneakers are some of my favorites to wear with dresses.
Sneakers. Always.
Hats
You’ll be outside all day, so bring a hat even if you don’t think you’ll wear it the whole time. Some women go for a dressier sun hat like this crochet option from Tuckernuck or this wide-brim hat. I usually prefer a more traditional golf hat. This non-branded hat from Chord is a really clean option that doesn’t feel too sporty or too fussy.
Sunglasses
Practical and a good accessory. I wore my Le Specs Bandwagon sunglasses and loved them for a full day on the course. Any sunglasses you love will work since you’ll have them on most of the day anyway.
Bag
Most golf tournaments have a small bag policy, so check the size requirements before you arrive. At Augusta, bags must be 10″ x 10″ x 12″ or smaller. A small crossbody is the safest and most practical choice. You really only need sunscreen, your phone, a card, and maybe a lip gloss.
For spring and summer, a straw bag is perfectly appropriate. I put together a full round-up of my favorite straw and raffia bags here. If the event requires a clear bag, here are my favorite stadium-approved clear crossbody options.
Sunscreen
Throw a small bottle in your bag. I didn’t bring any to my first Master’s and ended up with a terrible sunburn. I swear it ruined the second half of the day.
The OS-01 FACE SPF 30+ is my favorite face SPF. It applies perfectly under makeup, blends in without leaving any white cast, and feels great on my skin all day. I’ve tried a lot of sunscreen and this is the one I keep coming back to.
What to Skip for a Golf Tournament
Sandals or heels. I watched a woman fall in wedges and another walking barefoot at the end of the day carrying her sandals. You don’t want to be either of those people. Wear sneakers.
Anything too short or too casual. Golf tournaments are dressy sporting events. Think more football game energy, but elevated. Athletic shorts, crop tops, and flip flops are all no.
Your own food and drinks. The food at most golf tournaments is really good, so you won’t need them anyway.
A stroller, if you’re attending the Masters or PGA Championship. Both prohibit them. Good excuse for an adults-only trip.
A camera, depending on the event. Cameras are only allowed on certain days at some tournaments, including the Masters and the PGA Championship, so check before you go.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re headed to a major PGA Tour event or a local charity tournament, the formula for a golf tournament outfit for females is the same every time. Polish and comfort in equal parts, sneakers always, a hat you’ll actually wear, and sunscreen in your bag.
And if you’re planning for the Masters specifically, go check out my dedicated Master’s outfits post since it’s a whole different level of occasion.
Alright, I’ll wrap this up and go figure out which of these dresses I’m wearing for a golf tournament coming up. Thank you so much for being here!
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