Wimbledon is arguably the pinnacle of the London summer social season and a hugely popular event for Royals and celebrities alike. It has become the event of the season to be 'seen at' but with no formal dress code, knowing what to wear to Wimbledon can be a challenge for many. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive guide on the sartorial factors to consider for courtside style.
Dressing smartly for Wimbledon is encouraged, but unless you're a celebrity, royalty or esteemed guest of the Royal Box (where jackets and ties are required for Men), you probably need to factor in travelling, walking around the Wimbledon village and the fact that you may well be seated under direct sunlight all day. Whilst sun protection is key, this is not the races. Leroy Dawkins, Celebrity Stylist and Royal Expert adds "Hats and fascinators are not recommended for Wimbledon. With a fascinator you will look totally out of place and these should be left to a summer wedding or Royal Ascot. The obvious reason is that you would not want to sit behind or even beside someone wearing a wide brimmed summer hat. Panama hats however, are a thing. They will provide much needed shade from what can be a quite punishing sun."
Royals and celebrities always dress to impress for Wimbledon, and Bella Hignett, stylist and personal shopper adds "a trouser suit is often a favourite or a pair of easy-to-wear wide leg trousers. Others may favour beautiful dresses in light summery shades and there is often a lot of polka dots [as seen on the Princess of Wales] and stripes."
While there is no dress code for Wimbledon on what you should wear, Bella continues, "Clothes that are not allowed to be worn by anyone attending are items that are heavily branded with your company logo on or items that have offensive remarks and political slogans written on them."
See below for our top picks of what to wear to Wimbledon this year.
With British summers becoming warmer and warmer every year, it's time to hone in on pieces that are cotton or linen to ensure your comfort. Linen in particular is breathable, sustainable (it will last forever if you look after it properly) and timeless, the perfect antidote to sticky London temperatures. The high street offers some very appealing and affordable dresses for Wimbledon this summer- below you'll find some of our top picks for a day courtside:
Tailored looks are very much at home at Wimbledon and smart dressing is encouraged. For those of us who prefer the formal look, a beautiful shirt and blazer combination is a good choice. If it's an overcast day, you might appreciate the option of a few light layers too. I like the idea of a draped blazer over the shoulders, perfect for heading out for dinner after a long day courtside but you want to smarten up your outfit for the evening.
Another option for Wimbledon dressing is to make the most of a beautiful two-piece set, we love the FatFace shirt below, which comes with elegant wide leg matching trousers. Smarten this up for the occasion with a statement bag, chunky white wedged trainers and a pair of classic Ray bans.
Starting with the matching FatFace set as listed above, a looser fit trouser is not out of place at Wimbledon. If you don't want to go for a matching set, most two pieces work well as separates. If you're more comfortable with covered legs, but dread being too hot, a linen trouser is your friend for a day at Wimbledon. Also, easily smartened up with accessories. The Karen Millen split hem linen trousers below are exceptionally chic and will add a little edge to your Wimbledon outfit.
If in doubt, play it safe when wearing skirts and opt for a minimum length of over the knee. Marks & Spencer have some brilliant skirts that will see you through the whole Summer, in particular the versatile midaxi pleated skirt below.
Whilst there is no Wimbledon dress code, you ought think ahead in regard to headwear. We love the foldable straw hat from LK Bennett, perfect for travelling or popping into your bag without worrying that you're going to break it. If you want to add some fun, summery accessories then the raffia knot band from M & S adds a suitable pop of colour and cross body bags are the perfect practical accessories for keeping you hands free all day long. Susie Nelson, fashion expert comments "Handbags need to be large enough to hold a bottle of water, sunglasses and sun lotion, plus your phone (on silent) but not a huge tote bag!"
Susie continues, "Footwear should be stylish but comfortable, wedges, trainers or smart sandals are suggested." So whilst the Wimbledon village has a mixture of flat grass and concrete surfaces, and heels may look the part, you might want to consider something more supportive.
Depending on your personal preference, you can't go wrong with a smart pair of white trainers (John Lewis have a great collection this summer) or a pretty espadrille such as the LK Bennett Elsie Clay Suede Espadrilles which will keep you comfortable all through the day and last for the whole Summer and beyond.
A low wedged castaner-type heel or wedged sandal will smarten up any dress, trouser or skirt option- we love the tan crossover mini wedges from FatFace.
Don't rule out a classic driver-style loafer. These gold flexible sole loafers from Boden are a smart, yet comfortable flat shoe option with personality! Pair these with white jeans, linen culottes or tailored trousers to elevate your daytime look without the discomfort of heels.