Tennis is making a racket this year, from courtside to cinema screens. With summer right around the corner, we’re seeking wardrobe inspiration both for and from Wimbledon, so consider this our guide of how to put together ladies’ tennis outfits we just know you’ll love.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE FOR WIMBLEDON?
If you’re spending a summer spectating, you may be wondering if there are any dress codes for women at Wimbledon. Unlike the Races, tennis takes a more relaxed approach to dressing do’s and don’ts, with only one official rule for courtside tennis outfits: the banning of clothes featuring offensive, political or heavily marketed messaging. This allows for near enough free-reign on putting together tennis attire, so where do you start?
Smart-casual dressing is encouraged, with men often opting for suave suits and shirts whilst a majority of women take it as an opportunity to dress up in their summer best, from floral dresses to chic tailored looks. The Wimbledon Debenture Lounges take a more strict stance, with their own dress-code required for entry which restricts the wear of jeans, shorts, collarless shirts or trainers.
Sports fans are advised to bear in mind the unpredictability of British summertime weather when considering their tennis outfits, from scorching hours in the sun to spontaneous showers. We recommend being prepared for both extremes, taking a bag (no bigger than 40cm x 30cm x 30cm) equipped with the essentials for every element: sun hat, sun cream, umbrella and light raincoat.
WHAT COLOURS SHOULD YOU WEAR TO WIMBLEDON?
The players are required to dress in head-to-toe white, but off the court, the rainbow is at your repertoire. If you’re looking to take inspiration from the game itself, white and green hues are set to serve, in fashion terms. For a traditional tennis dress, opt for a white summer dress and stand-out with bold green accessories, such as our Volume Hoop Earrings.
A more neutral colour palette also elevates ladies’ tennis wear, making a nod to the chic quiet luxury trend. The satin finish of our Chloetta Recycled Cargo Trousers gives an elegant touch to an everyday silhouette, not to mention its practical pockets coming in handy throughout the day.
WHAT CLASSES AS A TENNIS DRESS?
\We love the chance to dress our best, and we consider a tennis dress to be a courtside champion when picking out ladies’ tennis attire. In the height of summer, white dresses are the obvious go-to, in floaty silhouettes elevated by textures and embroidery.
A floral dress is another frock favourite, whether it’s a printed sundress, sun-seeking shirt dress or a more feminine occasionwear dress, such as our Clara Textured Puff Sleeve Midi Dress.
Tailoring has long-since stepped away from the traditional suit, and a tailored dress is a trendy tennis dress choice to meet the smart-casual dress code. The impeccable detailing of our Whisper Halter Blazer Mini Dress blurs the lines between playful and poised, with the versatility to also be worn to any afterparties that follow.
DO I HAVE TO WEAR A DRESS TO WIMBLEDON?
A women’s Wimbledon wardrobe is far from limited to tennis dresses, so if you don’t fancy a frock, fear not. You can still be inspired by the sport’s signature shades by reaching for alternative green and white garments, in fact we think our Aliyssa Stripe Shirt and a pair of flattering white jeans will be a women’s tennis outfit that exudes smart-casual like no other.
For an effortless ensemble, a courtside co-ord also makes for the perfect match. Consider a suited two or three piece, with a stylish waistcoat making its Wimbledon debut, or alternatively pair together our Elkie Twill Jacket and Trousers which team up textured twill with the here-to-stay utility trend.
A one-piece wonder is also a winning Wimbledon wardrobe pick, whether you opt for a casual playsuit or more dressy jumpsuit, it offers a put-together appearance worthy of love.
SHOULD I WEAR OUTERWEAR TO WIMBLEDON?
It’s not unheard of for brisk winds to interrupt the summer sun, even in the height of July, so an extra layer certainly makes for a good call. We’re not talking bulky coats, we’re looking to light layers which even have the ability elevate your ensembles if chosen correctly. A blazer is no longer reserved for boardroom meetings, it can add a pop of colour or sophistication to your spectators style, whilst a trusty denim jacket can downplay a dressed-up outfit in a playfully fashionable manner. The checkered print of our Dandy Check Coat makes it quite the commute-to-courtside catch, and can be worn open too so as not to hide away the rest of your ladies’ tennis attire.
WHAT ACCESSORIES SHOULD I WEAR TO WIMBLEDON?
No outfit is complete without the right accessories, and we’ve put together just the line-up. If you’re wondering what shoes to wear to a tennis match, we recommend comfort above all else for full-day wear. If you’re leaning towards a laidback ladies’ summer outfit, a pair of strappy sandals or sneakers* will seal the deal (*unless venturing to the Debenture Lounges).
If you’re completing your outfit in chic or dressed-up style, you can’t go wrong by stepping out in ballerina pumps or a little block heel.
A bag is an essential to finish off your tennis spectator outfit in both fashion and functionality, keeping your necessities near; from food and drink to forementioned weather forecast saviours.
Making a statement with your jewellery is all the range right now too, so opt for stand-out earrings or double up on chain necklaces for a luxe layered approach to accessorising. Our final recommendation? A watch not only makes for a refined wrist companion, but also adds a further practical element to your tennis match attire to help keep track of match times and scheduling your next strawberries and cream break.
We can’t wait to say ‘Game, set, fashion!’ this summer, so above all else, enjoy yourself - whether you’re attending a match, watching from the garden or dressing up for a cinema date.
Don’t forget to tag us with #MyFC so we can spectate your Wimbledon-worthy outfits.
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