What I Wore in Pinehurst

Last month, my son Mike had an incredible opportunity to travel to Pinehurst, North Carolina to play in the National High School Golf Invitational, to represent the state of Maine and his high school, who won the Class A High School State Championship. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so when he asked if we could swing it, I said, “absolutely”.

Now, let’s get one thing straight. A golf resort with ten 18 hole golf courses isn’t exactly my idea of the perfect vacation, considering I barely play golf, but I’d do anything for my son. Luckily, I was able to consult with friends before packing for my trip to get an idea of what to expect. Basically, the consensus was that Pinehurst is FANCY AF. I was encouraged to wear all of my most conservative fits, which completely threw me for a loop because I really just don’t own any conservative clothing. I packed things. I unpacked things. And in the end, I decided to just be me.

With a combination of nice dinners, lots of pool time, shopping and daily walks, I curated a perfect combination of Pinehurst appropriate fits.

Please excuse the unmade bed in most of the pictures. I’m not doing any housekeeping when I’m on vacation. I’m also no caring about anyone’s opinion on how I look. I dressed for myself and felt completely appropriate. Pinehurst was conservative. But I never once got a disapproving look in any of my outfits.

My days began with grabbing a breakfast sandwich and an iced coffee and taking a walk through the Village. It was in the 90’s the entire time I was there, so it was more of a stroll. I’d chat on the phone with my girls and then come back to the room to rinse off and change into my bikini. Mid-day, I was by the pool, in a skimpy bikini (because that’s all I own), tasting the delicious varieties of salads and mixed drinks. Once late afternoon hit, I’d shower and get into my dinner dress and heels. Mike and I had set dinner reservations at all the best restaurants on the resort every night. After dinner, Mike would meet his friends for more golf, I’d go back to the room to change into flats and head down to the Drum & Quill for a nightcap.

It was an incredible and unforgettable trip to Pinehurst. The boys played their little hearts out and I made some great new friends. I’m glad I stayed true to myself and wore what brought me joy. Instead of dressing for everyone else, I dressed for myself. No regrets!

This teal polo dress is from Bermuda. The white hat is from the Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, RI.

The white midi eyelette dress is from Nordstrom. The kitten heel thong sandals are Target.

The argyle skort is Urban Outfitters. The sleeveless cropped green polo is Target.

The brightly colored wrap dress is SHEIN.

The white pleated skirt is Gold Hinge. The sleeveless cropped white polo is Target. The argyle quarter zip is Gold Hinge.

Chelsea K. RayComment