Dress Codes and Fashion Faux Pas at Wimbledon: A Story of Gucci Bags, Royals, and Tennis Stars
July 5, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Julian Everett
Yesterday at Wimbledon, the chatter was all about the Gucci bag carried by Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner, which, interestingly enough, had passed all the necessary approvals. Wimbledon, known for its prestige and history, is also famed for its stringent dress codes, which I cannot help but appreciate. These dress codes apply to everyone: players, spectators of all categories, including members of the royal family.
As history shows, when people are left to their own devices, some will immediately show up in flip-flops, shorts, stretched-out tank tops, and silly hats. Hence, Wimbledon's rules are clear: hands off white tennis gear, no dirty shoes, and certainly no flip-flops! Sport shorts, ripped jeans, spaghetti-strap tops, and branded baseball caps are also forbidden. Moreover, wide-brimmed hats are not allowed, to ensure they don't obstruct the view of other spectators - this is Wimbledon, not Ascot!
Men removing their shirts is a strict no-no (I believe this should be the case in all public places), although neckties or jackets are not mandatory. However, they are commonly seen in the VIIP stands. Men are advised to wear matching trousers and shirts (or polos) to avoid awkward combinations. Lewis Hamilton learnt this the hard way in 2015 when he was sent away for wearing a colorful shirt and hat with peculiar footwear. The press was astounded: after all, he is considered a style icon! This shows what can happen when we appoint anyone and everyone as style icons.
In 2019, Meghan Markle was denied entry into the royal box for wearing tight jeans. While critics were quick to claim racism and white supremacy, the incident highlighted the extent of Wimbledon's dress code enforcement. And let's not forget, children under five are STRICTLY not allowed (yes, in capital letters) in the spectator stands, even those of blue blood.
