The US Open tennis tournament has started. I am going crazy due to the fact that I am not in NYC, yet. Men and women from all over the world come together to enjoy the last Grand Slam of the professional tennis season. Now THAT is how Wardrobe Wire defines globalization!
For those that don’t play tennis or watch it on TV and/or find it boring, it is quite different live. You can enjoy adult beverages while watching sexy tennis players' hair blow in the wind. That alone makes for a good time. At the US Open, you can also mix and mingle with friends and strangers, eat till your pants pop, spot and stare at the Hollywood celebs, buy souvenirs, get autographs, and comment on the players' outfits. And, if you’re as lucky as I am, you might have some men from Slovakia ask if they could pay you to move to Slovakia for a year to teach them English (even though they pretty much already speak fluent English). Have I sold you on the US Open yet? If not here is the closer--it’s in Flushing, NY, which is right next to Queens! Ahhhh, see, I told you that dreams do come true.
So what should one wear and anticipate when attending this event?
Tennis is a very mature sport; it is the only sport where your opponent will apologize for getting a really lucky shot or just hitting a big winner. Rowdy behavior that is accepted and expected at other sporting events is not welcome in the game of tennis. Make sure your cell phone is on silent and whatever you do--DO NOT talk on it while in the stands!
Since this is a sporting event ALMOST anything goes, but there are a few things you should take into consideration.
Watching a tennis match outdoors during the day can get hot. We don’t suggest jeans simply because they may make you too hot, sweaty, and stick to your body. That’s the worst feeling! We also don’t suggest a skirt--you may have to climb bleachers and wouldn't want to be flash anyone. Wear comfortable shoes because you may be doing lots of walking. Strappy sandals, boat shoes, and moccassins are a few suggestions. You will see people sport athletic shorts, collared shirt, ankle socks, or tennis shoes. However, for those of you who like to spice it up a little, we suggest the following:
For a daytime match: khaki, navy blue, olive, gray, or white (although it may get dirty from sitting on the bleachers) cargo shorts. Draped shorts that cinch or fold at the waist are currently very popular and comfortable. Top it off with your favorite tank top, white tee shirt from “T by Alexander Wang,” or loose fitting blouse that you can roll the sleeves. If you have any cool, wrinkle-free slacks, try those. Seersucker, pinstriped pants, or anything nautical seems fitting for tennis, too. You can try a denim skirt or even a sundress IF you feel comfortable that you won’t flash anyone when going to sit down.
For an evening match, try a pair of wrinkle-free slacks or your favorite denim leggings and a boyfriend blouse with a belt around the waist. It may cool off, so it is wise to bring something to throw over your shoulders. Skinny utilitarian style pants are also in style. Pair them with a simple top and load on some tribal jewelry for that extra sumthin’ sumthin’. If you don’t have any tribal jewelry, tie a skinny scarf around your neck.
Make sure to remember: sunglasses, plenty of SPF, deodorant, baby powder (you may sweat a lot and need it to help soak up some of it), bandaids in case you get blisters, lip balm, money, ID, camera, a hat if you fear your head getting sun burned, and face mist to help cool off your face.
Wardrobe Wire fun fact: Did you know that the fashion line Lacoste was started by a famous tennis player named Rene Lacoste? You learn something new everyday here at Wardrobe Wire.
What male and female tennis player do you find has the best on court style? Leave us a comment!
- Paige Rolfe
