What to wear at a Grand Slam
In this post, we tackle a question commonly posed to us: what should I wear at [insert Grand Slam]? Below, we’ve listed the Grand Slams in order of least strict to most strict in terms of dress code. Most importantly, though, the key when going to any tennis tournament is to make sure you wear comfortable shoes. These tournaments are held at expansive campuses, so naturally there is some walking to be done on your part. The last thing you want to be doing while watching Federer vs. Nadal on Centre Court is worry about the increasing pain in your feet!
US Open
At the US Open, the players are the only ones with a dress code. However, that doesn’t mean we spectators are entirely off the hook! While it isn’t against the rules to show up in a torn and stained t-shirt and sweatpants, it certainly isn’t the best idea if you’re looking to fit in. We recommend that you dress as if you were attending a fancy garden party: short-sleeve shirts and nice pants for the guys and casual wear for the women. Dress for warm temperatures during day matches, but be prepared with an extra layer for a temperature drop once night time hits Arthur Ashe Stadium. Last year, many fans visiting New York City experienced 90-degree weather one day, only to be shocked by temperatures in the 50s the next. So keep an eye on the forecast as it approaches—September in NYC can mean a lot of things.
Australian Open
There is nothing fashionable (or enjoyable) about bright red sunburn. When you’re heading to Melbourne, make sure you pack lots of sunscreen and drink lots of water.
While it can be tempting to shed layers in the heat and wear a sleeveless dress or top, you should consider the amount of sun exposure you can receive down under. January is the heart of Australian summer, so cover up if you burn easily. Wear a hat (nothing so large that it blocks your—or others’—view) and sunglasses. We typically suggest some light, white clothing. Not only is it stylish, but reflects the heat and keeps you nice and cool when the temperatures soar.
Certainly remember to dress for your session of tennis. For example, go for a short-sleeve linen shirt and linen shorts or a skirt for the day sessions. For the night, a long sleeve linen polo with loose-fit linen trousers may be the safer play. Feel free to play with some color, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
French Open
It is a tradition of the French Open that spectators wear neutral colours within the grounds of Roland Garros. This unenforced rule came into place as an attempt to avoid distracting the players. Try to bring a hat and sunscreen, as sitting outside in the sun can eventually take away from your enjoyment of the tennis if you start overheating. If you are looking to fit in, women mainly wear dresses or polos with white hats, and men typically wear polos or button-downs. The ideal outfit incorporating Parisian chic and comfort is a dress and blazer combination.
Wimbledon
Tennis whites and the All-England Club. Surely most are aware of Wimbledon‘s strict and long-standing tradition when it comes to athlete dress code. Originally, the rule was enforced as white was believed to show less sweat. Today, the dress code ensures that an athlete’s performance is the main eye-catcher.
Fortunately, most eyes are drawn to the athletes, not the spectators. You have a little more flexibility with what to wear for your big day on historic Centre Court or No. 1 Court.
Wimbledon attire is much more refined than your average sporting affair. Men traditionally wear fashionable suits and ties at major Wimbledon matches, and while women have a bit more latitude, they often wear white dresses, or similarly summery outfits. We recommend you dress as though you are attending a summer wedding.
British weather is known for its ability to turn from blue skies to torrential downpours in a matter of minutes. We recommend our guests go to Wimbledon prepared for all weather conditions. Bring a light jacket to wear on top of your summer dress—just in case. Unlike other sporting events, hats are not advised, as they block the view of the spectators sitting behind you. If it’s a particularly sunny day, you might bring a classic Panama that can be folded away. Make sure you don’t forget your most stylish pair of sunglasses!
There is no official Wimbledon dress code for spectators beyond a few forbidden items: no torn jeans, running vests, dirty sneakers, or sport shorts. Though this is all that will be formally enforced, visitors to Centre Court are still expected to dress up for the more important games of the tournament in a way that is more formal than other sporting events.
Debenture Holders’ Lounge dress code
While there is no official general dress code for spectators, the Debenture Holders’ Lounge is a bit pickier with who they let in. If you have a Debenture ticket for Centre Court or No. 1 Court, you also have access to the Lounge in that stadium, so it’s wise to dress appropriately in case you want to cool off in the air conditioning, grab a snack, or just use the Lounge’s restrooms. (Note: all of Grand Slam Tennis Tours’ Wimbledon tickets are Debentures.) The dress code in the Debenture Holders’ Lounge is smart casual, with no sport shorts, dirty sneakers, or open-toed sandals or flip-flops for men. Very short shorts and halter/bikini-style tops are not permitted, either.
