For Ascot it’s all about hats, at Henley it’s blazers, but what to wear for Wimbledon…?
Let’s start with jewellery and what more fitting piece than a tennis bracelet. One of the most sought after easily worn pieces in any capsule jewellery collection and beyond, this now ubiquitous item came to prominence in 1987 when, during a match in the U.S. Open, Chris Evert ‘lost’ her diamond bracelet when the clasp broke. Play was suspended so that it could be retrieved, which it was.
She later said “When I competed, I wanted to wear something that gave me confidence and empowered me, both as a woman and an athlete. My tennis bracelet added a personal element to my style on the court and served as a daily reminder that I can do and be anything.” Who wouldn’t want some of that?
This style of line bracelet has been popular since the Art Deco period, but it was Chris Evert that brought it to such wide prominence and caused the change of name.
You’ll also be needing a stylish watch and there is a plethora of choices endorsed by tennis stars. Roger Federer became a brand ambassador for Rolex in 2006 with what was, at the time the largest single endorsement for any professional athlete. He was contracted to Rolex for 10 years for which he received $15,000,000. Others now in the Rolex stable are Dominic Thiem for the Daytona; Garbiñe Muguruza with the DateJust and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga with the Milgauss. If you want to dress the part but favour other brands, Nadal wears a Richard Mille and Serena Williams an Audemars Piguet diamond outrage.
Perhaps you will fancy something unique and eye catching to adorn your outfit, you might look at vintage novelty tennis related items. These two tennis racket brooches were sold at auction and the ruby and diamond brooch is Edwardian and set with ruby, pearls and rose diamonds.
Last year Ralph Lauren unveiled new uniforms for the court officials. The instantly recognisable polo shirt is now produced in wide navy blue and white stripes and they stated that they were combining the heritage of the brand with sustainable modern fabrics and modern silhouettes.
As for the outfit itself no-one does Wimbledon better than The Princess of Wales. As Patron of the All England Club and a keen tennis player herself, she often attends the championships and well as presenting the trophies.
In 2022 she chose polka dots by Alessandra Rich and a bright yellow dress by Roskanda. If you wish to emulate her style, similar dresses are available by these designers at about £1,400 each.
Whatever your style choice and however you enjoy watching Wimbledon, we hope you enjoy the championships and regardless of your outfit, the event is definitely best served up with Pimm’s; and strawberries and cream.
Jenny has been working in the Silver and Jewellery industry for over 35 years, she is a graduate of Reading University where she gained a BA Hons in English literature. She joined Bonham’s auctioneers in Knightsbridge as a post-graduate in the silver, jewellery and clocks and watches departments, specialising in silver and jewellery. Jenny soon rose to the position of deputy head of department.