Last week, before leaving to Johannesburg in the evening, I attended The Championships at Wimbledon for the first time as guest of Ralph Lauren x Net-à-Porter.
At Centre Court, British heritage takes a global stage – from the freshly cut grass, strawberries and cream, and morning garden parties to the polished spectator style. As the Official Outfitter of The Championships at Wimbledon since 2006, Ralph Lauren has proudly celebrated the tournament’s rich traditions in sportsmanship and elegance. The American fashion house is providing uniforms for on-court officials as well as stylish, yet functional, pieces that embody the prestigious and sophisticated atmosphere of the tournament.
I was invited to the Ralph Lauren suite that is elegantly furnished and beautifully decorated. Here I enjoyed lunch and drinks before heading to the game.
Here’s a glimpse into the unique fashion culture of Wimbledon:
Traditional Dress Code
Players: Wimbledon is known for its strict all-white dress code for players, which dates back to the 1800s. At the time in Victorian England, sweat stains were seen as improper and unacceptable, and white would mask the stains the best out of every colored clothing. Once the rule was drawn up, Wimbledon has decided to keep the all-white dress code a tradition throughout the years, meaning that any visible clothing, including undergarments, must be white or almost white.
Spectators: While there’s no official dress code for spectators, the event often attracts a chic, garden-party look with summer dresses, blazers, and hats being common choices.
Celebrities and Royalty
Celebrity Sightings: The event attracts celebrities from various fields, including actors, musicians, and other sports stars, often dressed in stylish, sophisticated outfits.
Royalty: Members of the British royal family, especially Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, was frequently seen at Wimbledon before her illness. Kate is known for her impeccable fashion sense, often opting for elegant dresses that respect the tournament’s refined atmosphere. My seat was next to the royal box where I spotted her parents front row.
Experience and Atmosphere
Strawberries and Cream: A quintessential Wimbledon experience includes enjoying strawberries and cream, served in the grounds, adding to the genteel, summery feel of the event.
Pimm’s and Champagne: These are popular beverages at Wimbledon, contributing to the festive and high-society atmosphere.
The Grounds: The carefully manicured lawns and flower arrangements provide a beautiful backdrop, enhancing the overall experience and making it a picturesque setting for both tennis and fashion enthusiasts.
Iconic Fashion Moments
Roger Federer and Serena Williams: Known for their stylish takes on the all-white rule, Federer’s sleek Nike outfits and Williams’ elegant and sometimes bold tennis dresses have left a mark on Wimbledon’s fashion history.
Anna Wintour: The US Vogue editor-in-chief is a regular at Wimbledon, often seen in the stands wearing stylish summer attire that combines elegance with comfort.
Wimbledon seamlessly blends the worlds of sport and fashion, making it a unique and stylish experience for both players and spectators. The tournament is taking place from July 1-14, 2024.
A big thank you to Iona Miller and her team at Net-à-Porter for this amazing day in Wimbledon!
The Ralph Lauren style tradition pays tribute to the timeless sophistication of tennis.
YOU CAN SHOP THE POLO RALPH LAUREN WIMBLEDON COLLECTION HERE.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Getty
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Ensemble, Christopher John Rogers (American, born 1993), F/W 2020; Courtesy Christopher John Rogers. Photo: HAPPYMONDAY / Courtesy of the Costume Institute
