What to wear to Wimbledon: Outfit ideas and style rules to inspire your courtside look
Our guide on what to wear to Wimbledon will help you enjoy the sporting season in style…
As we prepare for one of the biggest sporting events of the summer, the question of what to wear to Wimbledon rears its sartorial head again. But with this foolproof guidance, the answer has never been simpler.
When it comes to deciding on a courtside outfit, there are a number of demands that are levied against your look. Easy enough to compile from your closet, unlike what to wear to the races, your Wimbledon outfit should be chic and discreet. The day itself can be long and tiring, regardless of whether you've already bagged tickets or are planning to queue, so comfort is key. However, that doesn't mean you have to compromise on style.
While there are no hard and fast style rules and no color demands, there are certain discreet codes of conduct it is wise to follow. Hats are generally discouraged, as they can block other spectators' views. In terms of color, the world is your oyster. From the fashion color trends 2023 to embracing bright color clothes, you can wear whatever tones you want to Wimbledon. However many choose to stick to light and bright summer colors, particularly Wimbledon whites, reflecting the players on the court.
What to wear to Wimbledon - outfit ideas from a fashion editor
One of the chicest sporting events of the season, when it comes to what to wear to Wimbledon you want easy tailored pieces, pretty summer dresses, and stylish footwear that will make the day a breeze. This is also one sporting event where Stealth Wealth or Quiet Luxury style is very much encouraged, as it's all about dressing in a subtle and elegant way. You might also want to consider some elements of layering, as although it is held during British summertime, the weather can roll its way through all seasons in one day, sometimes even halting play with a deluge of rain.
1. Midi dress
The best midi dresses are a great option for winning Wimbledon style. Comfortable, effortlessly elegant and getting you dressed in an instant, this is a one-stop-shop to courtside style. When it comes to silhouette, you will want to start with considering your own body type and what dress style works for you both sitting and standing. Remember you might be sat for long periods of time, so you'll want to make sure your outfit doesn't crease too much (avoid linen) and that it doesn't become too tight across stomach and hips when sat. We recommend pleated or bias cuts to embody the Rich Mom trend and give a subtle touch of glamour to this versatile look.
RRP: $375 / £179 | Always in style, British clothing brand Hobbs knows how to answer what to wear to Wimbledon. If you're trying to learn how to dress like Kate Middleton, this polka dot print dress is reflective of Kate's courtside look.
RRP: $219 / £149 | Channel the handbag trends 2023 by styling this floaty smocked dress with a bright and structured purse. Finish off the look with the best sandals, such as classic espadrilles, for a winning Wimbledon, courtside look.
RRP: $325 / £195 | Ideal for hot sunny days, this halterneck style dress is a real standout piece. With an A-line fit and embroidered leaf detailing, it will also work as one of the best bridesmaid dresses, or answer what to wear to a wedding.
2. Blazer
A well-tailored blazer is always a good investment and can solve a multitude of sartorial meltdowns, such as what to wear over a dress. As dressing smartly is encouraged at Wimbledon, the best blazer not only acts as a warming layering piece, but also adds instant polish to pretty much any look. Slide a blazer over a pretty midi dress to sharpen up a more feminine and floaty silhouette. Opting for a blazer in a neutral color will ensure it can be worn year after year and pair with anything in your spring capsule wardrobe.
RRP: $178 / £171 | You can pair this linen number with everything from Quiet Luxury jeans to baggy pants for a cool yet sophisticated finish. Opt for a size up to get a relaxed and flowy feel that will layer perfectly for all seasons.
RRP: $189 / £95 | A jersey blazer is much like your best sweaters - soft, comfy and with plenty of stretch, they're ideal for long periods of time and don't crease. This gorgeous lilac color is perfect for summer styling with dresses or pants.
RRP: $595 / £350 | Make a sunny statement with this vivid checked blazer that will stand out from the crowd. Ideal for pairing with the best white jeans, it embodies the spirit of Wimbledon and that instant summer-ready feel.
3. Jumpsuit
A flattering jumpsuit is ideal for those who still want to execute one-piece dressing but prefer a more tailored finish. If you've always opted for the jumpsuits over a dresses due to thigh rub however, then you should investigate the best anti chafing shorts, as this will help to end this wardrobe dilemma.
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A great jumpsuit can work for everything from a Wimbledon outfit to what to wear to a bridal shower, and a block color iteration, or a classic print, will never go out of style. As the day can be long, warm, and ultimately a lot of sitting, opt for looser fit designs and wide legs to keep cool and comfortable. A great silhouette for pear-shaped bodies, a wide leg design will skim hips, while for larger busts, the design will balance proportions. For apple body shapes looking for a smart jumpsuit to wear to Wimbledon and beyond, opt for more tailored designs with higher cut waists to skim over a midriff.
RRP: $198 / £140 | With a loose leg cut and tie neck design, this jumpsuit is comfortable and stylish. Available in petite, regular, and tall, it will work for anyone. Dress up with your best designer heels and some jewelry for a high-end look.
RRP: $228 / £228 | Offering a more casual spin, this green jumpsuit can be worn for so many different occasions. Pair with the best white trainers for a casual look, or dress up with heels to render it slightly more formal.
RRP: $250 / £139 | From the best mother of the bride outfit to Wimbledon, this is the occasionwear jumpsuit you can turn to again and again. The blouse-style top offers a flattering finish and the wide-leg cut will pair perfectly with dressy flats.
4. Skirts
Err on the side of caution and opt for knee length and midi designs. While there is no dress code per se, there is a leaning towards smarter attire and as you'll be sitting for the majority of the day, you don't want to be fiddling with hemlines. Opt for A-line, fit and flare designs for elegance that will also skim your frame. To help create an hourglass body shape, utilize styling techniques such as tucking in tops and blouses, or a half-tuck to bring shape back to your waist. Use a blazer to create a central, elongated panel and add polish to your finished Wimbledon look. The best part is that floaty skirts can be worn again and again this season, answering the question of what to wear to a festival and they're ideal for throwing over affordable swimwear on vacation too.
RRP: $49.90 / £32.99 | Wondering what to wear with a pleated skirt? Dress up with a silky t-shirt or blouse and team with comfortable flats and some statement jewelry to make this color really stand out from the crowd.
RRP: $69.99 / £45.99 | Satin skirts will work for pretty much any occasion and this wrap style is comfortable and airy. The pretty blue-grey hue can be styled with neutrals, like your best white t-shirt, or bright hues, so the world is your oyster.
5. Pants
Similarly to the best jumpsuits, when it comes to pants to wear to Wimbledon, you'll want to opt for a fabric that won't crease heavily. High-waisted styles will help to contour your silhouette and for those who usually prefer stylish dresses to hide a tummy, high-waisted pants will act as some of the best shapewear, offering added support to your midriff. If you often opt for the best petite jeans, when it comes to pants shapes look for kick flares and ankle-skimming hemlines to help elongate your pins. For taller silhouettes looking to balance wider hips or a bigger bust, then wider leg pants will aid your proportions. For apple body shapes, a slimmer fitting leg will avoid adding bulk to your frame.
RRP: $39 / £27.50 | If this is your first foray into wide leg pants, trial the trend with this bargain pair. Available in multiple leg lengths from extra short to extra long and up to a size 24, they're adaptable to several body shapes and heights.
RRP: $35.90 / £29.99 | With a smart and tailored fit, these ankle-baring pants will look chic for everything from what to wear to Wimbledon, to what to wear to a christening. Pair with a tailored blazer and your best shirt to seal the deal.
6. Tops
When considering what to wear to Wimbledon, if you're opting for smart separates, then we suggest keeping your top half relatively simple. While the event itself is certainly one worth dressing up for, it's a good idea to consider the comfort levels needed during the day. Although there are no rules against exposing shoulders, as smart clothing is encouraged, we suggest leaving midriff-baring items for more casual weekends. Consider the amount of time you'll spend in the sunshine, as you might want to opt for light and floaty tops that have shoulder and arm coverage to avoid burning. Equally, if the weather suddenly gets chilly, an easily accessible additional layer, such as a cashmere sweater, or cotton cardigan will come in very handy. When it comes to color, keep it fresh and light, opting for neutral hued blouses and tees or soft pastel tones to reflect the tennis players attire and mood of the occasion.
RRP: $195 / £115 | This blue cotton shirt is light and breathable, and we love the subtle details that make this a perfect option for what to wear to Wimbledon. With a band collar and raglan sleeves, it offers something different from your typical blouse.
RRP: $129 / £89 | This linen t-shirt is distinctly smarter than your average t-shirt but doesn't compromise on versatility or comfort. You can style with everything from jeans and Chelsea boots to cropped tailored pants and chunky boots.
7. Shoes
Unlike race day, where there is a mix of grass and concrete, the terrain at Wimbledon is pretty flat - meaning if you want to wear your favorite heels, there should be no barrier to this. However, the days at Wimbledon can be very long and, depending on if you're queuing for tickets or if you're sitting center court, your needs for comfort will differ. The shoe trends 2023 are packed with varied styles, so whether you want some sleek flat sandals, smart loafers or to go for a more sporty style tennis shoe, you'll be bang on trend. Just ensure you veer towards well maintained, polished or clean shoes that pair well with your outfit.
RRP: $375 / £249 | One of Kate Middleton's favorite shoe brands, LK Bennett offers a multitude of chic staples. Famed for its sleek and stylish court shoes, these will ensure you don't put a sartorial foot wrong, and we love the pointed toe.
RRP: $825 / £630 | One of the most classic smart shoes you can buy, Tod's loafers will always make for an elegant footwear choice. Ideal for teaming with tailored looks such as pants, they'll work for summer outfits for work too.
Rivkie is a fashion editor, writer and stylist with twenty years' experience in the industry. Rivkie studied design and pattern cutting at the London College of Fashion, and fell in love with styling and journalism, and has covered fashion weeks in London, Paris and New York, as well as shooting editorial all over the world.
Specialising in plus size fashion, Rivkie has long championed that style is for everyBODY and has appeared on a host of radio stations and television shows, pushing for greater representation for plus size women and fashion throughout her career.
- Amelia YeomansSenior writer
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