Wimbledon fortnight is upon us once more – our surefire sign that summer is truly here. 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.
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 best summer garden party and wedding guest dresses).
Unlike the strict dress code for tennis players, spectators are free to wear the full rainbow. Many opt for creams and neutrals to reflect the stars on court, but lights and brights are equally popular.
Given our famously unpredictable weather, it’s also important to consider comfort for a full day court-side. So, don’t forget your sunglasses, but also remember to take a light jacket to throw on if the sun goes into hiding. (We've just checked, and the latest Wimbledon weather forecast is warm and sunny, until Saturday 7th July, anyway...)
If you’re determined to serve a sartorial ace this championship, a la the Princess of Wales in an elegant Balmain blazer and Leslie Mann in a floral Prada midi dress, browse our guide to what to wear to Wimbledon, from summer dresses to jumpsuits.
What should spectators wear to Wimbledon?
Do wear
Midi dresses
It’s prime time to give your best summer dresses an outing and the midi length is the perfect elegant choice for Wimbledon.
Our top pick for channelling the Princess of Wales at last year's Wimbledon is this classic polka dot shirt dress from Rixo's gorgeous vintage-inspired range. The same style is available in four other colourways, including pink paisley and brown polka dots – should you fancy going full Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.
There are plenty of floral dresses in the shops right now, or consider this pretty broderie anglaise midi from Boden, available in both Wimbledon white and bright red and currently nearly £100 off!
Rixo Izzy Pleated Shirt Dress
Reiss Luna Floral Print Dress
Nobody's Child Floral Midi Tea Dress
Sezane Pippa Dress
Jumpsuits
Stylish yet comfortable, the best jumpsuits marry the both of best worlds – just what you need for a long day of watching tennis and sipping on Pimm's.
Mint Velvet's neutral wide leg jumpsuit nails the "quiet luxury" trend that also embodies Wimbledon style – the colours are perfect for the tennis, but it also comes in black.
Cos Bow-Back Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
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; this cream Wyse blouse with its floating angel sleeves is most tempting us. If you choose something off-the-shoulder, don't forget your suncream...
Wyse London Marie Lace Blouse
Albaray Painterly Floral Top
Sezane Romy Blouse
Mango Embroidered Oversized Blouse
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 floral Aspiga skirt will keep you cool on a hot day (and the waistline is elasticated for all those strawberries and cream...).
Mint Velvet Etta Print Ruffle Midi Skirt
Ana Midi Skirt
Anthropologie Midi Slip Skirt
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 this 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.
The Fold Abbeville Tailored Jacket
Don't wear
Some 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. Instead, opt for a smaller classic Panama.
Is it OK to wear jeans to Wimbledon?
Jeans are allowed at Wimbledon, so long as they aren’t torn in any way. The duch*ess of Sussex copped some backlash after wearing jeans to watch her friend and compatriot Serena Williams play in 2019, even though her chic outfit (also featuring a black shirt and striped cream blazer) fell within the rules.
Point being that although technically allowed, jeans at Wimbledon is a bit of a divisive issue.
Do you wear heels at Wimbledon?
Much as we love attending Wimbledon, the days can be long and 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.
Whistles Marie Slip-On Mule
& Other Stories Squared Toe Leather Loafers
LK Bennett Leather Buckle-Detail Flats
Dune Croc Effect Slingback Court Shoes
Can I bring a bag to Wimbledon?
Bags are limited to one per person and there’s a restriction on the size: no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 30cm, so 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 tote, measuring 33cm x 19cm x 15cm, so small enough for Wimbledon. Chose from white, tan or pink and white.
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!
