Here’s how to ace the Wimbledon dress code (without looking like a competitor)

As tennis fever grips the nation, our thoughts are turning to the sartorial side of the tournament (well, it is our job…). The Wimbledon dress code for competitors is undoubtedly the strictest in the business but when it comes to Wimbledon guest attire, the rules are a little less black and white.

There is actually no official spectator dress code, although there are a small number of forbidden items – including ripped jeans, running vests, heavily branded items that could be used as sneaky courtside advertising and dirty trainers (as if you’d dare).

But just because there’s a lack of strict rules doesn’t mean you should wear the first thing to fall out of your wardrobe. As the tennis skirt trend is appearing on the street style set you could also be forgiven for thinking ‘job done’ – but unless you’re actually competing, turning up in a white tennis skirt might make you look like you got lost on your way to the changing rooms.

Of course, you should wear what you feel most comfortable in, but we recommend choosing something a little more polished. If you’ve got tickets to one of the finals (nope, not jealous, not one teensy bit) or it’s a significant match, it makes sense to level up your fashion to match the excitement of the occasion.

If you’re stuck for outfit inspo, look to The Princess of Wales or Meghan Markle’s appearances for inspiration for your own Wimbledon dress code ideas. They have both looked immaculate in preppy classics at the tournament, wearing a dose of navy, white and polka dots thrown into the mix.

We have found a dreamy silk dress from Doên, if you have a designer sized budget, as well as the perfect polka dot style from ASOS. Karen Millen’s navy wool blazer is the epitome of chic and their smart tailored navy shorts will also be a winning look courtside. ARKET’s striped poplin shirt could be worn tucked into the shorts or open, like a shacket, over Zara’s bandeau top. If you do feel the need to dress a little more sportily, Uniqlo’s striped polo shirt, ASOS’s washed canvas baseball cap or Self-Portrait’s pleated mini skirt will all score highly.

Before you finalise your *lewk*, you will also need to remember the practicalities of sitting down for potentially hours at a time (loo breaks are only allowed at certain points in the proceedings) and the weather. Sorry to be all British about it but do check the forecast to see if you need to pack a rain poncho or a gallon of factor 50 SPF. Or, probably both…

Shop our edit of our dream pieces to wear courtside below…

For more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton, follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton.