Wimbledon Dress Code

You know when you see the Coca Cola Christmas advert and suddenly the most powerful advertising campaign works its magic and it's 'officially' Christmastime? I think it's sort of the same with Wimbledon. One glimpse of the green grass and the dazzling white kits and it's 'officially' summertime. 

And just like Christmas, Wimbledon is worth celebrating in style. 

Already off to a great start (hello, Mr Darcis!) this is one of the most quintessentially British events of the season - nay, the year. But it can be a tricky one to sartorially navigate.

In 2012, the organisers at Wimbledon launched their first dress code rules amidst concerns that standards were slipping. Basically: no jeans, midriffs or trainers. But if you're reading this blog then I imagine you wouldn't have considered such an ensemble anyway. Phew.

But in case you're unsure, I've picked my current favourite outfits. 

Kate and Pippa in Issa's Lucky Dress Credit: REX USA; Bauer-Griffin

Temperley Moriah Dress, image courtesy of The Mirror

As always, I advocate looking to the Duchess of Cambridge for inspiration as she always looks elegant. Kate tends to opt for crisp white and has been seen in Issa and Temperley. But actually, last year I preferred Pippa Middleton's Project D dress. Gasp! 

Pippa Middleton wears Project d to Wimbledon 2012. Image (c) PA

A few hints:

1. Try to wear a knee length or a just-above-the-knee dress.
2. Stilettos are probably not the best idea because, depending on where your seats are, you might have quite a few steps to totter up. I tend to prefer mid heels anyway and you will be far more comfortable.
3. Structure is good. Think sophistication, rather than flamboyance. 
4. Hats aren't necessary and you'll probably find you'll upset the people behind you if you wear one - that isn't to say you can't wear a summer hat if it's sunny, but keep it small and preferably featherless!
5. Colour is key. White is having a moment and is ideal for showing your team spirit at Wimbledon, but make sure you buy a thicker fabric so the white is bright and not transparent (never a good look).
6. Other ideal colours include: blue, green, pink, coral, orange, yellow, red. Think bright and bold. Pastel shades can look insipid set against the bright green grass and blue sky.
7. A blazer or box jacket is a good idea. We are British, after all. Zara and Hobbs have great selections.

Following in Kate and Pippa's footsteps, I'm concentrating on white and blue hues for a fresh and summery look. 

Lara Dress by Whistles, £165

Stine Stripe Dress, Whistles, £165

Orla Kiely Flower Shift Dress in Silk, £358

Whistles Rebecca Lace Dress, £175

Structured Cotton Dress, Karen Millen, £140

Oasis Pencil Dress with Black Tipping £65

IVORY GRETEL MIDI PEPLUM SHIFT DRESS, Project D

£276.00 WAS £395.00

Murray for the win! #Wimbledon2013

~x~