It goes without saying that anyone fortunate enough to go to the Masters Golf Tournament wants to look chic as well as practical at August National. As we near the year’s first major tournament (April 7-10), those lucky few who have tickets for the actual tournament or even the practice rounds might have some questions regarding appropriate attire as they begin to prepare to visit those hallowed greens in August, Georgia where the green jacket reigns.
Honestly, you’ll see everything out there. That’s because many people have no clue what they’re venturing into when they attend a major championship or PGA Tour event. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just a 9-hole player, there’s one rule that should guide you. It’s not a football game. It’s not a tennis match. It’s not a soccer game. And it’s surely not the Kentucky Derby. IT’S A GOLF COURSE MADE UP OF 18 HOLES THAT SPAN SOME 6-7,000 YARDS, AND YOU’RE EXPECTED TO WALK! So, for both men and women, the number 1 wardrobe rule is to wear comfortable shoes.
While the Masters conjures up images of azaleas, pristine greens, and the green jacket, springtime in Augusta can be fickle so be prepared. To help you, I’ve put together some guidelines of what to wear to the Masters Golf Tournament. The official Masters dress code states that appropriate clothing and shoes should be worn at all times. Jeans are not allowed. Golf shoes with spikes are also not allowed. Only the players behind the ropes can wear them.
It is appropriate to wear similar attire to what you’d wear playing golf. A nice, pressed polo and khaki pants or shorts are the perfect choice. Make sure your clothes are ironed, your shirt is tucked in and your belt matches. You can’t go wrong with black, white, gray, or various earth tones. If the weather is not too hot, you could consider a button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up at the cuff. You see this frequently in the spring at Augusta.
Anything from TravisMathew would be a great. Keep in mind, if it’s warm, you want to wear something that will keep you cool and looking sharp. On the other hand, if the weather is cool and rainy, wear a golf jacket, but make sure it’s light enough that you can take it off and tie it around your waist if the weather clears and warms up. Lastly, clean non-flashy tennis shoes or sneakers (not basketball shoes) are appropriate for men. If you want to step it up a bit, a loafer with a soft sole is also okay. Hats are vital, especially if you’re sun sensitive so wear a golf cap
Women have a little more leeway in what they can wear as spectators at a golf tournament. Women’s golf apparel that’s both cool and sharp ranges from shorts and polos to “tasteful” sundresses, skirts and pants with V-necks or polos. You should dress to be appropriate anywhere you may find yourself on the grounds, thus leggings and other tight-fitting sportswear are a poor choice. Golf skirts (They have shorts underneath the skirt.) are also a great option. Bottom line, the overall look is often described as preppy, clean-cut but classic yet comfortable.
Tennis shoes, sandals with a comfortable sole and that have a back to them that wraps the ankle so that you’re not constantly scrunching your toes to keep the sole on your foot are also good options. If you insist on a shoe with a slight heel, consider low wedges. You could also wear ballet flats with a rubber sole, so you don’t slide on the grass. Flip-flops are a big “NO”.
As with my recommendations for men, dress and plan for the weather. Wear sunscreen, your favorite sunglasses, wear a floppy hat or fedora and maybe bring an umbrella.
In summary, when it comes to dressing for watching the Masters or any PGA tournament, the rules for both men and women are simple: golf casual will always work. Remember, be practical; dress comfortably; and above all, be respectful. Hope my recommendations have been helpful. I’m Mary for Q. Contrary. Check out my shop in Phoenix at 3168 East Camelback Road or visit my online store. I carry some great men’s golf wear from TravisMathew and Greyson Clothiers that are both fashionable and technical. I’d love to help you select some new items for your golf and casual wardrobe.
