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Few sporting events in the British social season are as hallowed as Wimbledon. After all, where else can you witness a graceful volley on the court while spotting celebrities, donning your most elegant sports attire, and enjoying a legitimate 11am Pimms? If you’ve been lucky enough to secure Centre Court tickets, chances are you’re wondering what to wear to Wimbledon. Is there a dress code? Should I wear my country club tennis kit? Should I bring a jacket? No, no, and absolutely yes. Whatever your question, we’ve got you covered with our handy guide to acing Wimbledon fashion.
While there’s no official dress code for Wimbledon, dressing smartly is encouraged, which means avoiding shorts, graphic T-shirts and flip-flops. Traditionally, spectators tend to dress up, especially in the Royal Box and on Centre Court (where formal dress is required). It also goes without saying, pay close attention to the day’s weather forecast – wouldn’t it be awful if your new sundress was to be ruined by sudden summer showers? While the hot sun warrants hats and sunglasses, it gets colder in the shade, so make sure to bring a jacket.
British designer and host of fashion podcast, Style DNA, Amanda Wakeley OBE says: “Wimbledon is the epitome of refined British summer style – it’s less about following a strict dress code and more about embracing a sense of polished ease. For women, I love the idea of relaxed tailoring in breathable fabrics – a white linen trouser suit or a belted midi or maxi skirt and shirt for a look that is effortless yet chic. It’s a long day, so comfort is key.”
She adds: “Accessories should be considered but never overthought – a beautiful raffia and leather tote to hold an extra layer for later in the day, statement sunglasses and perhaps a classic Panama hat. Wimbledon dressing is ultimately about elegance that feels effortless – a quiet nod to tradition, with a distinctly modern sensibility.”
If you’re still unsure about what to wear to Wimbledon, look to the Princess of Wales whose looks remain on point year after year, with an array of sophisticated dresses and her favourite two-toned spectator pumps. Whether you wish to don a breezy midi dress or go formal with tailoring, read on for the best outfits to sport around court this season…
Get dressy
A breezy sundress is the easiest answer to any Wimbledon dressing woes. Skip the minis for a floaty midi dress. Look to Doen for the perfect occasion-appropriate (and on-theme green) dress that’ll keep you cool and stylish. Alternatively, Alessandra Rich's beautiful butter yellow silk-satin midi with a delicate lace trim offers something bright and summery.
Elsewhere, you can't go wrong with a classic white palette that will match the players' on-court style. Holland Cooper embraces a sporty, preppy look (ideal for Wimbledon) with its Aimee dress, showcasing a button-down style and complete with a belt, while Ro & Zo's cotton dress brings an easy, breezy, girly feel that can be dressed up or down.
Queen of Archive's dresses blend vintage glamour with a modern edge. The Olivia dress is our pick of the bunch for Wimbledon this year, rendered in a warm red and pretty florals, fit for SW19. Meanwhile, Hansine's whimsical maxi dress is offered in a beautiful aqua peacock print for a graceful, elegant feel (perfect for chillier days with its long-sleeved silhouette).
For a smart shirt-style dress, Ralph Lauren – official outfitter of all Wimbledon on-court officials – has the navy belted design for you, with a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette for chic appeal. Or for something a little more playful, you can't go wrong with The Shirt Company's very on-trend polka-dot dress, featuring sharp lapels, horn buttons and a belt to pull it all together.
Game, set, match
Not one for dresses? Play it safe with classic tailoring. Holland Cooper's new strped maxi skirt is both fresh and timeless, and works well whether paired with the matching waistcoat for a modern look, or a classic white shirt with lashings of gold jewellery. Polo Ralph Lauren's pastel-hued suit, meanwhile, will work wonders with both a crisp Oxford shirt or crewneck T-shirt.
For something a little more vibrant and romantic for Wimbledon, opt for this tomato red skirt co ord from Faithfull, or Kindred of Ireland's striped linen shirt and shorts combo. Cool and comfortable and very Wimbledon strawberries and cream coded.
Cover up
The aforementioned temperamental weather means it would be inadvisable to go out for the day without layering up. Choose &Daughter's pretty-in-pink cardigan or Frame's crocheted style for a delicate layer with a summery edge. Both offer warmth without compromising on style.
Looking for something slightly more formal? More jacket than cardigan? Button up Valentino Garavani's tweed jacket or throw on Khaite's Rolo ivory blazer. Both are smart, sophisticated and designed in neutral shades to go with just about every summery dress or co-ord.
Best foot forward
The Princess of Wales' favourite sky-high spectator pumps are chic, but most of us aren’t a dab hand at walking in heels all day long. Lucky, then, that Gabriela Hearst's raffia rendition comes with a block heel. The Princess also favours the more comfortable espadrille wedge – take Castañer's lace-up pastel blue pair, which you’ll surely be reaching for all summer.
Wish to skip the heels all together? Consider a pair of ballet flats for a comfortable, smart alternative. The Row and Sam Edelman offer elegant options, the former in a natural cream, the latter crimson red.
Accessorise
While Wimbledon doesn’t prescribe strict dress codes, when it comes to bags, you can’t carry one bigger than the average aircraft cabin size: 40cm x 30cm x 30cm. Quintessential British brand Tusting's top-handle Clara handbag is a great option, while nothing says ‘summer’ quite like Marina Raphael's raffia basket bag.
For something a little bolder, turn to Lulu Guinness. Blending vintage glamour with modern chic and a lot of playful edge, every bag is a showstopper. Take the bow ruby bag in pink satin, perfect for Wimbledon and beyond. Mashu's Calliope bag is equally out there, rendered in a punchy London bus red. A statement accessory if we ever saw one.
When it comes to jewellery, keep it simple. We adore Harry Winston's diamond tennis bracelet, sprinkled with sparkling aquamarines for a touch of sophisticated colour while Reis Jewellery's strawberry necklace will bring a spot of fruity fun to your neckline, nodding to Wimbledon's signature strawberries and cream. Whatever you choose to accessorise with, don’t forget match-day essential sunglasses: Dior and Bottega Veneta have an array of classic options for every taste.
Read more: What to pack for a weekend in the country
