From the history to the fashion
The summer season is one of the most enjoyable times to spend in England. Never mind the weather – we’re talking about the festivals, parades, events, and attractions that come alive at this time of the year. Of course, the warm and sunny days also play an important part!
One of the most fashion-conscious occasions this Summer 2019 is Wimbledon, one of the world’s most famous tennis tournaments. But what exactly is this grand affair? Of course, it’s a sports event. But it is so much more.
The History
Did you know that Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world? Founded in 1877, The Championships, Wimbledon (simply known as Wimbledon fortnight), is one of the four Grand Slams, the others being the US, French and Australian Opens.
For more than 125 years, Wimbledon championships have been run by a private club originally founded on 23 July 1868. In 1877, the club changed its name to “The All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club” by instituting the first Lawn Tennis Championship.
From its foundation, the Wimbledon tournament started on the last Monday of June, but recent changes to the tennis calendar have pushed the event forward to the first week of July.
Wimbledon has five main competitions: the men’s single and double matches, the women’s single and double matches and the mixed doubles. The Gentlemen’s Singles was the only event held in the first ever tournament. In 1884, the club added Ladies’ Singles and Gentlemen’s Doubles, and later added the Ladies’ Doubles and Mixed Doubles in 1913.
Traditions
Like many long-running events, Wimbledon is full of traditions, from food to fashion. There is a dress code for competitors, including guidelines ensuring that clothes are strictly white – not off-white or cream.
Colours are allowed: as long as they’re only shown on necklines, sleeve cuffs, underwear or caps, and a maximum of one centimetre width. However, tradition hasn’t stopped some players from sparking controversy with their apparel.
A more delicious tradition, strawberries and cream, is as fundamental to Wimbledon as the game itself. On average, 166,055 portions of strawberries and cream are eaten at the tournament each year, according to Wimbledon’s website. And, for the first time, this year the tournament’s historic summer dessert is getting a vegan option.
The Royal Boxes are exclusive seated areas where, apart from Royalty, heads of state are invited, and they have been used for the entertainment of friends and guests of Wimbledon since 1922.
Fashion
Summer fashion is a true love-hate relationship. Sure, you can look cute in a breezy summer dress on top of a bikini. But how do you look smart in 30-degree weather? Wimbledon is Britain’s best-dressed moment of the year. It reunites the glamour of sport and the allure of the royal family in a single event. Sure, the matches are a delight to watch, but the outfit-spotting has become almost as great a spectator sport.
If you intending to participate at this grand event, here are some tips for you:
Bright colours and patterns
If you want to stand out from the crowd.
Accessories aren’t just a fashion statement
Hats and sunglasses not only make you look chic but also protect you from the Sun.
Bring on a jacket
Because we are in the UK, after all, and the weather can change many times in one day!
Keep it simple
Light fabrics, and minimal makeup and hairdo. This combo is key for keeping your look together on hot summer days.
If you are a sports enthusiast, you can follow this event in London from 1st to 14th of July. Wimbledon 2019 tickets are available at www.wimbledon.com, where you can also follow live scores and schedules, latest results, and news from your favourite athletes.
