You have finally agreed to go play golf with your friends or coworkers. You have your beginner clubs ready. But as you look in your closet, panic sets in: What on earth am I supposed to wear?

Golf has a reputation for having incredibly strict, old-fashioned dress codes. While some ultra-private country clubs are still very rigid, the vast majority of public golf courses have modernized significantly.

If you are playing golf for the very first time, you do not need to drop $300 on a high-fashion golf wardrobe. You likely already have everything you need in your closet right now.

Here is exactly what women should (and should not) wear to the golf course.

The Golden Rule: The Collared Shirt

If you only remember one rule from this article, let it be this: wear a collared shirt.

The collared shirt is the universal symbol of golf attire. It shows the course staff that you understand and respect the traditions of the game.

What works:

• A traditional short-sleeve polo shirt (cotton or moisture-wicking material).
• A sleeveless polo (very popular in the summer).
• A mock-neck athletic top (a modern alternative to the traditional collar).

What to avoid:

• T-shirts, tank tops, spaghetti straps, or anything that exposes your midriff.

Bottoms: Skorts, Shorts, and Pants

When it comes to your lower half, you have a lot of flexibility, provided you stick to the right materials.

What works:

• The Golf Skort: This is the most popular choice for women. It looks like a skirt but has built-in shorts underneath, allowing you to swing freely without worrying about flashing anyone.
• Athletic Shorts: Clean, tailored athletic shorts (like you might wear for tennis) are perfectly acceptable.
• Golf Pants or Capris: If it is chilly, lightweight khaki pants, chinos, or dedicated golf pants are excellent.

What to avoid:

• Denim of any kind: Jeans, jean shorts, and denim skirts are strictly banned on 99% of golf courses.
• Yoga pants/leggings: While some modern courses are relaxing this rule, leggings are still widely frowned upon unless worn under a skort or shorts.

Shoes: Do You Need Golf Shoes?

If it is your first time playing, do not buy golf shoes.

Golf shoes have small spikes (either plastic or rubber) on the bottom to help grip the grass while you swing. While helpful, they are not necessary for a beginner.

What works:

• Comfortable, flat-soled running shoes or tennis shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking (and rotating your feet), so comfort is key.

What to avoid:

• High heels, sandals, flip-flops, or heavy work boots. These will damage the delicate grass on the putting greens and make swinging impossible.

Accessories: Hats and Gloves

You will be standing in the direct sun for 2 to 4 hours, so sun protection is critical.

• Hats: A standard baseball cap or a wide-brimmed sun visor is highly recommended.
• The Glove: Most golfers wear one glove on their “lead hand” (your left hand if you are right-handed). It helps grip the rubber handle of the club on hot, sweaty days. While not strictly required, a $15 golf glove is the only piece of specific apparel a beginner should actually buy before their first round.

Summary

Dressing for golf doesn’t have to be intimidating. Pair a nice athletic polo shirt with a tennis skort and some clean running shoes, and you will look perfectly in place on any public golf course in the country. Now get out there and swing!