Tennis fever has well and truly descended onto Wimbledon. Thousands are flocking to witness one of the greatest sporting occasions on the social calendar, and we’re busy checking out the ultimate in sartorial standards; the style dos and don’ts on and off the court…
LK Bennett occasionwear and yellow bags. Shoulder bag, £155 and Tote, £275.
It’s a style that can only be described as ‘Wimbledonian’ – a smart British summer style with a fresh, fun twist.
The dress code for players is pretty strict (white, white, or hang on, white… oh and absolutely no bright colours), but it’s somewhat relaxed for visitors – though no ripped jeans, string vests, dirty trainers or sports shorts, bare midriffs are also frowned upon. Getting dressed up is part of the fun, so make the effort to find your true inner quintessentially English style through serving up a pop of colour or a volley of tennis whites.
Just remember to layer up – the English weather is certainly varied (*understatement of the year) shock showers or humid heat can appear in bursts throughout the day.
Paige Jeans, Z&L Boho Mini-jacket, Fallon & Royce Pom Pom Straw Bag, Le Specs Shades, all from Question Air.
Smart, tailored shorts are allowed and trainers have been given a new lease of life in recent years, so smart trainers or sneakers and slide ons are now allowed.
If you’re strolling around to soak up the atmosphere you’ll be on your feet (maybe picking your way through the crowds on Murray Mount) as well as sitting, so comfort is key; wedges, rubber flatforms, espadrille slippers, lower block heel or smart t-bar flats are great options, but flip flops are not recommended.
Be notably smart (but not wedding smart) go for summer elegance. Certainly no wide brimmed hat obscuring the views…a midi-panama will ace your look (try Davina Mulford).
Visors, mirrored shades or oversized sunglasses to shield from the glare will set you up nicely for the day.
Cross body bags are essential for style and safety, or a natural woven seagrass/straw tote with pom poms (to hold the strawberries and cream) Try Fallon & Royce.
If you’re worried about staining an all-white outfit with strawberries and pimm’s, go for a summer floral dress, but not a cocktail dress (that would be a fault). Smash this look by keeping it fresh and breezy. Not too short and not too tight. There’s a lot of walking around, sitting and standing…it can be a long day if rain delays play, so remain comfortable at all times. Good hem lengths are key; knee, mid calf or long to your ankle (but mind the tripping). Floaty, fun fabrics are the best choice for ease of wear and an airy feel.
Dressed up, high waisted (yet loose) trousers remain a wardrobe staple, worn with floaty floral blouse and fun espadrilles this look screams easy English-chic and also doubles up to protect from any inclement weather.
Parker trousers and blouse, ASH espadrilles flats, all from Question Air.
The weather can be temperamental, so layer up…or go low risk with a long sleeved floral top, but always modernise this look with denim or a cool, kitch jacket.
Parker Blouse, Perseverance Denim Skirt and Soludos Espadrilles. Mrs Robinson Tally Bag, all from Question Air.
For top match points and to avoid any sartorial mistakes, follow the ‘Grand Slam’ formula for making a style statement this year at Wimbledon 2017:
- Pretty like the English summer
- Wear yellow , it’s the first colour your eye sees – and it will ensure you’re seen on the telly
- Floral, modernised
- Fresh, bright whites with a pom-pom twist
- Luscious layers and sun protection
- Comfortable fabrics and favourable footwear
If you have no time for research or don’t know where to start looking for your most flattering colours and styles contact me for expert style advice. From colour consultations to personal shopping, I’ll help you find your perfect look.
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About The Author
Charlotte Broadbent
Personal stylist Charlotte has 18 years’ experience in the luxury fashion and beauty industry: she’s our go-to girl for wardrobe overhauls, style counsel and fashion tips.