Golfers in the U.S. Open will make fashion statements on the links this week, and there are sure to be some interesting looks among the 35,000 spectators expected to line the course at the Oakmont Country Club.

Attire is just as important for those onlookers in the "gallery" area behind the ropes as it is for the athletes they'll be watching. "The first thing you have to realize when you go to one of these events is, take direction from the club that is host," said Annmarie Dodd, fashion editor for Golf World magazine. "Oakmont is one of the most respected and revered private clubs in the country.

It really is so storied, that club." Spectators go shirtless under the blistering heat as Greg Norman competes in the International Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne Golf Course in 1998. Click photo for larger image.

The club doesn't have dress codes for spectators, but Ms. Dodd said it's a good idea to dress as if you're playing in the tournament. In fact, don't even think about going shoeless or shirtless -- despite the expected heat.

"Golf has never been more fashionable as it is today," she said. "Players think about what they wear and are scripted every day. It's going to be like a golf fashion runway show for men come to life.

I've spoken with a couple of golfers, and they're going to bring their 'A' game with what they're wearing. If they think about it that much, you should think about it, too." The right footwear is important because spectators can be standing and walking up to 10 hours.

Leave the golf spikes and high heels at home. "Typically, there are two strategies to watch a golf tournament: Follow a specific player or players' group, or sit in one place and watch all the groups go by," said Suzanne Colson, a special consultant to the USGA. "Either way, good shoes -- no Manolo Blahniks here -- are paramount.

Comfortable shoes are a must. Something with support because not everybody will be able to sit in the grandstands to watch." Good choices are sneakers or soft-soled shoes with flat soles or low heels.

Flip-flops aren't ideal because they offer no arch support during long stretches of walking and standing. Dress in loose-fitting garments and layers for comfort, and carry a light jacket or windshirt in case of rain or gusty winds. White and light colors and fabrics that breathe will help you stay cool under the summer sun.

Men should be fine in walking shorts and golf shirts, Ms. Dodd said, and women can go with a shirt with sleeves or a collar and a summer skirt or capris. Think "elegant and relaxed -- something that you wouldn't be ashamed to wear in the clubhouse after a round," she said.

Also, sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat are vital for sun protection -- especially because there will be little if any shade. Make sure to apply broad-spectrum sunblock to the face and other exposed skin, and reapply throughout the day. Think twice about big metallic pieces that can cause distracting reflections and glare.

Large bags are prohibited, so make sure your purse is no larger than 8 by 8 inches. Other items to leave at home: backpacks, diaper bags, strollers, pagers, cell phones, cameras, video recorders, coolers, folding chairs, ladders, signs and firearms. Heard the old saying that children are to be seen and not heard?

Take it a step further and try to be as quiet and inconspicuous as possible. Although cameras will capture spectators closest to the ropes, the idea is to be as still and as quiet as possible to avoid distracting golfers. And unless you feel like swatting at bees and other insects all day, skip the perfume and strong scents.

Finally, never run when moving from hole to hole. Walk carefully, watching for tree roots, uneven ground, TV cables and potentially slippery hillsides. (Post-Gazette fashion editor LaMont Jones can be reached at ljones@post-gazette.

com or 412-263-1469. Golfers in the U.S.