What to wear to RBC Heritage PGA Tour on Hilton Head SC 2022

Hilton Head Island’s largest social event is back for its 54th year, and everyone’s excited to wear new ensembles they’ve likely been collecting since the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown amplified our online shopping addictions and we’ve all been watching “ootd” or “outfit of the day” videos on TikTok.

Of course, we know golf is the most important part of the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, but the fashion and socializing are high priorities, too. When folks aren’t watching the course, they’ll be checking out the outfits.

This quick guide has fashion advice and tips for when you’re planning your clothing. (This isn’t just about the ladies. … Be sure to put together your best looks, too, gentlemen. Anyone able to top this, uhm, Taco Bell belt from a few years back?)

1. Spring is (unofficially) here. Wear those bright or pastel colors and bold prints. One year, a few Hilton Head teens said “The crowd should look like a bag of Skittles.” They weren’t far off because vibrant prints (including some, of course, from Lilly Pulitzer) are always popular choices. In contrast to the bold patterns, some folks will break out their white pants cuing the timeless debate of “When is it OK to wear white?”

2. Go for flowing, looser clothes rather than something form-fitting. While you’re partying in a subtropical climate, you’ll be happy you chose this style when a cool breeze offers relief every now and then. Dresses are a popular choice, but rompers and jumpsuits have also received some much-deserved love. Top it with a jacket if the weather is going to be a chillier earlier in the day.

3. Comfy shoes are in so be sure to include them in your look. The Heritage course and surrounding shenanigans are pretty spread out, meaning you’ll be doing a lot of walking whether you’re there for the golf or for the socializing. When you’re not walking you’ll also likely be standing. We’ve always recommended flat shoes or cushioned ones instead of uncomfy heels. But there’s no time better than now to heed this advice since Nike Air Force 1 shoes and Adidas Stan Smiths are in style.

4. Bring a cute bag or clutch to carry all your things, but keep it small. PGA has its own tournament bag policy, and it’s pretty specific. You can bring any bag into the tournament as long as it’s smaller than 6-by-6-by-6 inches — or you can opt for a clear bag that’s no bigger than size of 12-by-6-by-12 inches, or a one-gallon plastic freezer bag. That’s just enough room for your phone, keys, and a wallet with maybe a little room to spare.

5. Top the outfit with a hat. Lightweight floppy hats have been a favorite in past years, but big-brimmed felt hats have also gained popularity. Gentlemen can sport their flat-brimmed hats and baseball caps, just like the pros, and even visors are making a comeback. Make sure whatever hat you pick is breathable, though, so you won’t get too hot. Hats are the perfect way to stay stylish while protecting yourself from the unforgiving South Carolina sun. While we’re on that topic, sunglasses and sunscreen are also necessities!

6. You’ve got to incorporate plaid into your outfit — especially for Saturday. Heritage has deemed Saturday “Plaid Nation Day” and wants spectators to “wear your plaid with pride.” These outfits usually feature the iconic red tartan jacket the tournament winner receive and some people really go “mad about plaid” wearing it from head to toe. Others may opt for a statement piece like a light jacket,, skirt, vest or ribbon around their floppy hat.

This story was originally published April 11, 2022 10:32 AM.