Golf Course Clothing Etiquette

Find out the dress code policies of golf courses in your area where you may be doing most of your playing. Almost all private, semi-private and resort golf courses have strict requirements for clothing on the course (and even on the practice areas and the clubhouse, even if you're not playing). Municipal courses and public courses may allow T-shirts and jeans. But those are few in number. To avoid embarrassing situations, know the policies before you play there.

Visit to a clothing store or a golf shop that sells apparel. The good news is that national clothing stores ranging from low price-points such as Wal-Mart and Target to high-end stores such as Macy's and Bloomingdale's, have sections for men and women that feature clothing specifically for golf. Most national golf equipment store chains also have any clothing you might need, as well as your club's pro shop. However, the prices usually will be higher.

Men should purchase comfortable khaki and cotton pants and shorts. They should be a classic color such as black, beige, olive or tan. Try to avoid white pants--golf is played on the ground, and mud and grass stains have a way of getting on white without you really trying. Women can wear almost any kind of pants, shorts, skirts or chinos, as long as they fit the color scheme suggested above. Golf in the 21st century is trying to shed the image of plaid or other loud pants. It's a cliche that is best left to Caddyshack.

Men should purchase golf shirts with a traditional collar. Color-coordinate for a cool, smooth Tiger or Phil Mickelson look. Tropical patterns or horizontal stripes are fine with solid-colored pants.

Enjoy more freedom in the cut of your shirt if you are a woman. Collarless shirts are permissible in most cases. However, ladies need to forget about attracting attention and leave tops such as halters or anything with bare backs and plunging necklines at home--or at least for the post-tournament cocktail parties.

Wear a matching warm-up suit if the weather gets chilly. They are allowed on almost any golf course.