What to wear to Wimbledon to watch the tennis in style
What with Zendaya's tennis movie Challengers coming out soon, and the fashion world going gaga for all things 'tenniscore', our minds have naturally been turning to Wimbledon 2024, and what we might wear to watch the champs do their thing this year.
From the traditional purple and green colour palette and all-white player attire to the joyful jugs of Pimm's and picture-perfect pots of strawberries and cream, the Grand Slam tennis tournament is as quintessentially British as it gets, and our surefire sign that summer has finally arrived.
The annual two-week event attracts royals, celebrities and all society’s movers and shakers, making it the perfect opportunity to don your most stylish gladrags. There is no official Wimbledon dress code for spectators but smart dress is encouraged (think our Fashion Editor Jodie's chic occasionwear edit and our favourite wedding guest dresses).
Is there a dress code to attend Wimbledon?
Unlike the strict all-white dress code enforced for tennis players, standard spectators are free to wear the full rainbow, with smart casual clothing preferred, especially on Centre Court or Court One.
You weren't going to wear them anyway, we know, but note that certain items are forbidden: ripped jeans, grubby trainers, sports shorts, running vests and anything emblazoned with a political statement, 'objectionable' slogan or big logo.
Oversized hats are also not allowed as they may block the view for fellow spectators. Either leave your hat or fascinator at home, or opt for a smaller classic Panama for a welcome bit of personal shade – you'll see plenty of those at Wimbledon.
In terms of colours, many Wimbledon guests opt for creams and neutrals to reflect the stars on court, and we can expect even more chic tennis-inspired looks this year, judging by the preppy SS24 runways and popularity of all things #tenniscore on social media. Think plenty of little white dresses, pleated A-line skirts and tonal looks.
That said, brights are also popular among spectators, so don't feel you need to forgo colour if that's more your thing – as ever, to look your best, wear what you love and feel most comfortable in.
If you're lucky enough to be in the Royal Box with all the movers and shakers, a smarter dress code applies, with men required to wear a jacket and tie (F1 driver Lewis Hamilton was famously refused entry to the 2015 men's final due to not having the right attire).
Hospitality guests are also asked to lean towards the smarter end of smart casual – jackets and ties aren't compulsory, but jeans and trainers aren't permitted.
Given our famously unpredictable weather, it’s also important to consider comfort for a full day court-side. So, don’t forget your SPF and sunglasses, but also remember to take a light jacket, blazer or cardigan to throw on if the sun goes into hiding. (We'll be back with a Wimbledon weather forecast nearer the time!)
If you’re determined to serve a sartorial ace this championship, a la Sienna Miller in a striped Ralph Lauren suit and the Princess of Wales in an elegant Balmain blazer, browse our guide to what to wear to Wimbledon 2024, from summer dresses to jumpsuits.
What to wear to Wimbledon
You have a number of options, so let's run through some of our favourites for easy styling. Just add a straw bag and some sandals that won't make your feet hurt.
Midi or maxi dresses
It’s prime time to give your best summer dresses an outing, and the midi or maxi length is the perfect choice for Wimbledon.
Our top pick for channelling the Princess of Wales in 2022 is this classic polka dot shirt dress from RIXO's gorgeous vintage-inspired range. The same style is available in four other colours, including coral and white polka dots – all lovely for your summer workwear wardrobe too. Or, go full Julia Roberts at the polo in Pretty Woman in a timeless dotty brown style.
There are plenty of pretty floral dresses in the shops right now too, as well as breathable linen styles and broderie anglaise designs.
Jumpsuits
Stylish yet comfortable, jumpsuits marry the both of best worlds – just what you need for a long day of watching tennis and sipping on Pimm's.
Whistles' neutral wide leg jumpsuit has that 'quiet luxury' vibe while also embodying Wimbledon style – off-white linen feels perfect for the tennis, but it also comes in khaki, black and coral.
Blouses and shirts
Combine practical and summery by pairing a beautiful blouse or striped shirt with your favourite skirt or wide-leg trousers.
For a feminine touch, look for intricate detailing such as buttons, ruffles or lace. Our eye is firmly on this silk Sezane blouse with its embroidered neckline and angel sleeves. If you choose something off-the-shoulder, don't forget your suncream...
Skirts
Steer clear of anything too short or tight for Wimbledon, instead opting for floaty midi or maxi skirts that'll suit sitting for hours, teamed with a slick blazer.
This boho-inspired Reiss skirt will keep you cool on a hot day (and the waistline is elasticated for all those strawberries and cream...).
Tailoring
Look sharp court-side with a slick trouser suit, comprising wide-leg trousers and a sophisticated blazer. Rochelle Humes showed us how it's done in a slick brown two-piece on day one of last year's Championships, while Elizabeth McGovern paired fresh white tailoring with a bold lip.
The best thing about this look is that you can mix and match both parts with other items already in your wardrobe, making it a versatile investment for years to come. Of course, we also recommend taking a blazer to wear over a dress or blouse if the temperature drops – if in doubt, go neutral, or try Boden's pinstripe style that feels made for Wimbledon...
Is it OK to wear jeans to Wimbledon?
Jeans are allowed at Wimbledon, so long as they aren’t torn in any way. Meghan Markle copped some backlash after wearing jeans to watch her friend and compatriot Serena Williams play in 2019, even though her outfit (also featuring a black shirt and striped cream blazer) fell within the rules as she wasn't sitting in the Royal Box.
Point being: although technically allowed, jeans at Wimbledon is a bit of a divisive issue. We loved Alexa Chung's casual spin on prep last year, though, so if you're a denim girl through and through, go for it.
Should I wear heels to Wimbledon?
As much as we love attending Wimbledon, the days can be long and involve a lot of time on your feet (yes, even if you have those sought-after Centre Court tickets and aren’t joining the queue).
Therefore, to enjoy the event to its fullest, we’ll be leaving our high stilettos at home in favour of more comfortable shoes. Think block-heeled sandals, mules, loafers or espadrilles.
Can you bring bags into Wimbledon?
Bags are limited to one per person and there’s a restriction on the size: no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 30cm, which is essentially a small handbag. Hard-sided bags or containers such as cool boxes and picnic hampers are not allowed, and all bags will be searched before entry.
Our top pick is this M&S straw bag, measuring 26cm x 32cm x 12cm, so small enough for Wimbledon. Chose from natural, chocolate or green.
Can you take a water bottle to Wimbledon?
Yes, you can take a water bottle to Wimbledon and fill it up at one of many hydration stations, but metal or opaque bottles must be emptied so that security staff can see inside.
Unopened alcohol is allowed but again there are limitations: one bottle of champagne or wine or two cans of beer or two cans of premixed aperitifs per person. Rest assured, more will be available inside...enjoy!
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