By Tennis whites, the iconic all-white attire worn by tennis players, have a long history rooted in tradition and practicality. This dress code, which dates back centuries, has become synonymous with the sport, especially at Wimbledon, where the rules are strictly enforced.
Originally, white clothing was chosen for its ability to reflect heat and mask sweat stains, making it more suitable for the genteel social gatherings of the Victorian era. Maintaining white attire also signified wealth and status, as it required significant effort to keep clean and crisp.
Wimbledon, the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, has upheld this tradition more rigorously than other major tournaments. While other events have relaxed their dress codes to allow for more colorful outfits, Wimbledon insists on “almost entirely white” attire, with minimal exceptions. This rule was tightened in 2014 after Roger Federer’s orange-soled sneakers were banned, and it now prohibits off-white shades and colorful accents.
The only recent relaxation of this rule came in 2023, allowing women to wear dark-colored shorts to accommodate menstruation concerns. Despite these strict regulations, tennis fashion has evolved significantly over the years. Early tennis attire resembled 19th-century leisurewear, with women in long skirts and men in wool pants. Over time, players like Suzanne Lenglen and Serena Williams have pushed the boundaries of tennis fashion, introducing shorter skirts, headscarves, and even catsuits.
The all-white dress code at Wimbledon has faced criticism for being elitist and restrictive, but it remains a distinctive feature of the tournament. While other Grand Slam events have embraced more colorful and varied attire, Wimbledon continues to cling to its traditional dress code as a way to maintain its unique identity and prestige.
Despite the controversies and challenges, the tradition of tennis whites endures, symbolizing the sport’s rich history and the ongoing evolution of tennis fashion.
