What to wear to Wimbledon

Since 9 July 1877, Wimbledon has captured the attention of the world. And not just for the tennis. Fashion has shaped the Championships to the point that what is worn courtside is as much an event as seeing the best in the game play for the world-renowned title. For the spectator, putting your best fashion foot forward is a sport in itself. 

With no official dress code, the fashion possibilities are not confined by strict rules but rather anything that comes under “smart casual attire”. Think jumpsuits and high-end knitwear, as well as classic blazers, shirts, dresses and heels (except for those lucky guests to the Royal Box who must wear a jacket and tie to avoid being denied entry à la Lewis Hamilton

THE SUNGLASSES

Ace courtside chic with this statement pair of Prada sunglasses. Sculptural and with an alluring, retro-inspired almond lens, this designer accessory is perfect for catching the action on Wimbledon’s centre court. 

PR26ZS Prada Sunglasses, £376, Sunglass Hut, 155 Brompton Road, SW3 1QP

THE SHOES

The pointed-toe heel. A favourite among royals and celebrities alike, the slimline style is stunningly elegant and can be a great starting point for adding colour to your wardrobe. Finessed with orange leather piping and coral detailing, this pair of slingback point pumps by Russell & Bromley brings the spirit of summer to the court, even when the weather’s not cooperating. 

Ariel slingback point pumps, £395, Russell & Bromley; 77 Brompton Road, SW3 1DB

THE DRESS

Although the players at Wimbledon are strongly encouraged to adopt an all-white colour code, these rules do not apply to spectators. However, with the Princess of Wales often opting for a neutral colour palette when attending this prestigious event, there is no reason why you shouldn’t follow suit. This gorgeous dress is made from 100 per cent cotton and adorned with openwork embroidery and scalloped details to cinch in the waist for a refined silhouette. 

Long white dress with broderie anglaise, £157.50, The Kooples; available at Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL

THE BAG 

Add a pop of colour to your outfit with this mini shoulder bag from Furla. Available in a multitude of summer shades, it’s the versatile bag that can take you from enjoying strawberries and cream on the lawn to watching a tense match on No.1 Court. With enough room to fit in all your Wimbledon essentials, the bag’s zip closure will allow you to keep all your belongings safe while enjoying the event. 

Furla diamante shoulder bag mini minty, £196, Furla; 71-73 Brompton Road, SW3 1DB

THE POLO

A contemporary take on the timeless pairing of navy and white, this crochet polo shirt will keep you cool as the match heats up. Centred on creating modern menswear, the London in-house atelier Reiss has dressed everyone from Tom Hiddleston to William, Prince of Wales. Lightweight with a soft feel, the shirt allows the modern gentleman to enjoy effortless classic sophistication.

Ché crochet open collar polo shirt, £128, Reiss; 163 Brompton Road, SW3 1PY

THE TROUSERS

BOSS has you covered when it comes to casually refined menswear. Breathable and temperature regulating, these smart formal trousers are crafted from virgin wool and feature logo-printed material for signature attention to detail. Made from at least 60 per cent sustainable fabric, eco style never looked so good.

Regular-fit trousers in virgin-wool serge, £189, BOSS; available at Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ

THE SHOES

Founded in 1873, Church’s produce some of the highest quality handmade English shoes for men and women, and to honour true British craftsmanship at Wimbledon only seems right. These leather hazelnut loafers are the perfect staple summer shoe for any man looking to stylishly accessorise a smart outfit. 

Heswall 2 soft calf leather loafer hazelnut, £790, Church’s; 143 Brompton Road, SW3 1QP

THE WATCH 

Make sure you get to every match on time with the Cosmograph Daytona Oyster from Rolex, long-time sponsor of Wimbledon. This ever-reliable icon will transform your outfit with its cutting-edge technology and “Panda” detailing. An event such as Wimbledon is the perfect time to pull out all the stops and procure this timeless dress watch. 

Cosmograph Daytona Oyster mens 40mm watch, Rolex, £12,700; 100 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LJ