by Despite the drama of dressing for Royal Ascot or the fussiness of pulling together black tie for Glyndebourne, there’s something positive about a strict dress code – you know exactly what’s expected. But then there’s Wimbledon, and an unofficial invitation to dress “smart casual”.
This unspoken dress code is set and practiced wholeheartedly by the many Hollywood A-listers, royalty and fashion stars who descend on the earth each year. For two weeks from July 1, the sartorial action in the stands will be as big as the tennis.
The Princess of Wales – patron of the All England Club – is the principle for the chic advocate. Last year’s mint green and cream Balmain jacket, paired with a preppy white pleated skirt, nailed the polished yet playful spirit of Wimbledon dressing perfectly. The actress Sienna Miller also has a good game – in striped linen cultures, or in sunny lace dresses.
For men, sharp but light suits seem to dominate. Take your cues from Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hiddleston who usually wear blues during the day, or Daniel Craig who was spotted in the royal box last year wearing a slick gray Brunello Cucinelli two piece.
For those of us who aren’t driving to Wimbledon, it’s important to enjoy the outfit without forgetting the practicalities. The walk from Wimbledon or Southfields stations can be a schlep. I’m now a resident of SW19, but my first time at Wimbledon involved a longer than expected trip up the hill from the station, with blistered feet and a flushed face before the day even started. If you’re not comfortable walking in heels for 20 minutes, you’re probably better off sticking to flats (or at least, packing a bag big enough to accommodate a change of shoes).
Also think about how many very narrow steps you’ll be navigating courtside – trudging to your seat in heels while carrying a tray full of Pimm’s is not for the faint of heart. You won’t want to wear anything too short either – a mistake I made in 2018 when I decided to give my new Paul and Joe shift dress a twist but I underestimated how high it rose it when I sat down. Remember that the weather is also notoriously temperamental, and although the show courts have a rain cover, it can get chilly so be prepared for anything.
All these considerations make outfit planning something of a fine art.
“Layers are key, it’s England after all, and just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the other seasons can’t be seen over the course of a day,” says Clare Hornby, founder of British label ME+EM.
“A sharply tailored jacket in a breathable fabric such as a cotton or linen blend is essential; I would consider a cropped length if you’re wearing a high waistline to create the slimmest silhouette.”
For anyone looking to elevate their Wimbledon look, Hornby recommends investing in a suit. “You can go ahead and style all the pieces as separates later, whether that’s for work or other summer events. This season’s key addition is the tailored vest, which looks just as good on its own as it does layered under a matching blazer.”
Don’t forget sunglasses, SPF and a hat in case your seat happens to be in the sun all day – Lock & Co Panamas and boaters would work perfectly. I’ve never felt more smug than the time I brought a hand fan into my bag – contrary to belief, it can be sweltering at times in July.
‘For ten years, I’ve been lucky enough to be at every quarter-final and final and host some amazing celebrity guests,’ says Sadie Mantovani, fashion brand consultant.
‘My approach is always to use them as style inspiration, starting with a chic palette of white, cream, brown and navy, then incorporating current accessories, and always some statement summer jewellery. You can’t go wrong with an elevated American sports look, like the ones from Tory Burch or Ralph Lauren – the latter is the tennis kick and I often choose its dove gray cashmere cable knit with white pleated trousers, or long off. -an off-the-shoulder dress in a navy print with a white bandanna and a white blazer, worn with Camilla Elphick high block heels in gold, but so comfortable in gold, or in velvet studded with white pearls.’
Mantovani’s best tips? “Don’t pick Wimbledon as the time to try – obviously I feel confident in your choices but it’s not like Royal Ascot where going bold could be rewarded.” Instead, Mantovani suggests incorporating fresh polka dots and stripes into your outfit “for a British/Hamptons summer look.” Her final warning? “Don’t go too literal tennis on the stripes because you might look like a person lines.”
Get the look
Tencel shirt, £120, With Nothing below; Wide leg trousers, £250, Me + Em
Fedora wide brim hat, £108, Liberty; Siren cocktail rings, £177.75, Monica Vinader
Cotton pleated dress, £99, Puzzle items
Acrylic sunglasses, £75, COS; Leather flats, £270, Camilla Elphick
Sensi Studio straw tote, £215, Clean-a-Porter
Linen jacket and trousers, £199, Marks & Spencer
Finley sunglasses, £283, Oliver Peoples; Leather loafers, £59.99, Zara
