Deciding what to wear to one of Britain’s premier fashion events, particularly when the dress code is vague, can be quite the challenge. Wimbledon, steeped in tradition and elegance, presents a unique style dilemma for attendees.
Though Instagram might suggest otherwise, wearing all white is a privilege reserved solely for the players on the court. For spectators, Wimbledon’s dress code encourages a more relaxed yet polished approach, asking for “smart casual” attire while steering clear of obvious faux pas like torn jeans or athletic gear.
This ambiguous directive can be intimidating. To help navigate these fashion waters, we gathered insights from esteemed women’s stylist Annabel Hodin, fellow expert Karen Williams, and men’s fashion authority Gareth Scourfield on nailing the perfect Wimbledon look.
Stylist Recommendations for Wimbledon Attire
Choosing Your Outfit for Wimbledon
If you’re fortunate enough to have access to the Royal Box, be sure to don a proper jacket and tie. Otherwise, there’s considerable freedom in what you can wear to Wimbledon, unlike other events such as Royal Ascot, which enforces a strict dress code.
Stylists unanimously suggest keeping it simple. Karen Williams emphasizes that Wimbledon is all about achieving an elegant and polished look that appears effortless. For women, this may translate into tailored separates, lightweight suits, or refined summer tea dresses that avoid veering into formal territory. Annabel Hodin advises aiming for a ladylike yet modern aesthetic, favoring clean silhouettes and suggesting, “When in doubt, think French.”
For men, the advice shifts away from formal wear. Gareth Scourfield advocates for a lightweight, unstructured blazer, hinting that a double-breasted style adds a touch of sophistication without feeling stiff. Complement this with light-colored tailored trousers, crisp cotton shirts in classic white or navy striations, and soft loafers.
If opting for a suit, Scourfield recommends colors like navy, soft cream, dark brown, or olive to maintain an easygoing aesthetic while remaining stylish.
Challenging Traditional Style Clichés
Wimbledon often evokes imagery of Panama hats, crisp linen suits, and bright whites—styles that grow mundane with repetition. Modern sensibilities lean towards incorporating color and patterns instead. Hodin encourages styles that feature stripes, particularly in green and white, as a subtle tribute to the event without leaning into costume territory. She also favors softer tones such as icy blues, blush pinks, mint greens, and pale yellows.
Scourfield cautions against trend-driven choices, suggesting that Wimbledon is better suited for timeless attires. He takes inspiration from the tournament’s official outfitter, Ralph Lauren, recommending tailored ensembles in navy, tan, and cream, paired with pale blue or pinstripe shirts, and complemented with solid or stripe-tied accessories.
Williams echoes the sentiment that timeless chic reigns supreme at Wimbledon. While contemporary fashion is slowly embracing relaxed sets and flowing silhouettes, classic elegance remains the standout choice for this distinguished event.
Selecting Appropriate Footwear
Considering the extensive walking you will do between matches and seeking culinary delights like strawberries and cream, it’s essential to choose your shoes wisely. Williams warns against lofty stilettos; instead, opt for styles that provide both comfort and sophistication.
Hodin suggests wedges or ballet flats for women, while Scourfield recommends soft suede loafers for men, noting that classic white leather tennis shoes could also serve as a fashionable yet more relaxed option.
Dressing for Unpredictable British Weather
Wimbledon is notorious for its capricious weather, so plan accordingly. Williams cautions against underestimating Britain’s climate. Her strategy includes selecting breathable fabrics like linen and cotton for warmth while layering with a lightweight blazer, trench coat, or fine knitwear for added versatility as temperatures fluctuate.
Hodin also reminds attendees to remain prepared for sudden downpours, encouraging the inclusion of a compact raincoat in your bag for unexpected showers.
Outfits to Avoid at Wimbledon
Hodin is clear about avoiding overly extravagant choices, advising to steer clear of excessive frills or loud patterns that distract from the occasion. She insists that fitted styles or revealing clothing should also be left behind.
On the menswear side, Scourfield concurs, emphasizing that overly tight, short, or casual items detract from the essence of the event. He warns against shorts, sportswear, most denim styles, untucked shirts, and overly casual sneakers, advising that Wimbledon is not the place for beach attire.
