The Undeniable Allure of Courtside Style
Every summer, all eyes turn to Wimbledon, not just for the serves and volleys, but for the impeccable style on display in the stands. The celebrity and royal attendees provide a reliable showcase of summer fashion, where tradition meets trend. The unofficial
dress code leans toward smart, summer-appropriate attire, with an emphasis on clean lines and light fabrics like linen and cotton. While pretty dresses and tailored suits are perennial favorites, a new wave of inspiration is emerging, one that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern: the return of tenniscore.
A Flashback to 90s Tennis
The 1990s marked a pivotal era in tennis fashion, striking a new balance between performance and personality. While players like Andre Agassi brought rebellious flair with neon colors and denim shorts, the decade also solidified a cleaner, preppy aesthetic that has enduring appeal. Think less about loud graphics and more about the building blocks of the look: crisp pleated skirts, classic polo shirts, V-neck varsity sweaters, and simple, streamlined trainers. This aesthetic, often dubbed "tenniscore," moves beyond pure athleticism into a realm of understated, old-money elegance that feels perfectly suited for today's less-is-more fashion mood.
The Modern Royal Interpretation
Royals and A-listers at recent Wimbledon championships have been subtly nodding to this 90s-inflected trend. Instead of defaulting to formal dresses, we're seeing more relaxed yet impeccably tailored separates. At this year's tournament, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, garnered attention by opting for a breezy, cornflower blue linen suit from Gabriela Hearst. The look was polished but not stiff, demonstrating how classic tailoring can feel fresh and comfortable for a long day of spectating. This move towards relaxed suits and coordinated sets is a sophisticated evolution of courtside style, blending traditional elegance with a modern, effortless sensibility.
Your Polished Picnic Playbook
The beauty of this trend is its effortless translation from the stands to everyday life, particularly for a stylish picnic. The goal is an outfit that feels relaxed without looking careless. Start with a core piece, like a pleated white tennis skirt or skort, which is having a major moment. Pair it not with a performance top, but with a refined knit polo or a simple camisole. A key element is the layering piece: a V-neck cable-knit sweater or a classic cardigan, casually draped over the shoulders, instantly elevates the look from sporty to preppy-chic. For footwear, skip the technical athletic shoes and opt for clean, white leather sneakers. The finishing touches are crucial for that polished feel. Think a structured tote bag, classic sunglasses, and minimal jewelry to complete the ensemble.
Beyond the Picnic Blanket
This versatile formula isn't just for picnics. The same principles can create a chic outfit for a weekend brunch, a casual day at the office, or exploring a new city. A collared tennis dress paired with white sneakers and a denim jacket is an easy one-and-done look. A pleated midi skirt can be dressed up with kitten heels for a slightly more formal occasion. The core components—crisp pleats, clean knits, and relaxed layering—provide a timeless template that you can adapt to numerous settings, proving that this 90s revival has staying power far beyond the court.
