Tennis isn't just having a moment on the court.
It's having a fashion moment, too.
From pleated skirts and crisp polos to sporty sneakers, tailored shorts and oversized sunglasses, tennis-inspired style has become a summer wardrobe staple—and nowhere is that more obvious than at the US Open.
The 2026 tournament is underway in New York, and spectators are bringing their own fashion game to the stands. The US Open has long been known for its distinctive relationship between tennis and fashion, with players and spectators alike turning the tournament into something of a style showcase.
So whether you're actually heading to Flushing Meadows or simply want to channel your inner tennis enthusiast, here are some outfit ideas worth stealing.
🎾 1. The Classic Tennis Skirt Look
You really can't go wrong with the classic.
Pair a pleated tennis skirt with:
- A fitted polo
- Simple sneakers
- Sunglasses
- A crossbody bag
- Minimal jewelry
White is timeless, but you don't have to stick to tennis whites.
Try navy, forest green, butter yellow or even a subtle print.
Current US Open outfit inspiration is leaning into sporty separates while keeping the overall look polished.
🤍 2. The All-White Outfit
There's something effortlessly chic about head-to-toe white.
Try:
White dress + white sneakers + structured bag + sunglasses
Or:
White trousers + white tank + lightweight blazer
The key is mixing textures so the outfit doesn't look flat.
Think:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Knit
- Leather
- Canvas
And if you're worried about spills while enjoying a day at the tournament, perhaps don't wear your favorite white outfit!
👕 3. The Polo Shirt + Tailored Shorts
This is one of the easiest ways to get the tennis aesthetic without looking like you're actually about to play.
Pair:
Oversized polo + tailored Bermuda shorts + sneakers
Add a belt and sunglasses for a more polished finish.
It's comfortable enough for walking around the grounds while still looking put together.
👗 4. The Sporty Tennis Dress
A tennis-inspired dress is probably the easiest one-piece option.
Look for:
- A-line silhouettes
- Pleated details
- Collared dresses
- Racerback styles
- Minimalist white dresses
- Color-blocked designs
Pair it with sneakers instead of heels.
You'll get the sporty look without sacrificing comfort.
🧢 5. Add a Tennis-Inspired Cap
Sometimes the accessories make the outfit.
A simple cap can instantly give your outfit a sporty edge.
Try:
- White
- Navy
- Green
- Cream
- Black
Bonus: it provides some protection from the sun.
🕶️ 6. Don't Forget the Sunglasses
US Open style practically demands a good pair of sunglasses.
For a classic look, try:
- Aviators
- Slim rectangular frames
- Cat-eye sunglasses
- Oversized frames
- Sport-inspired sunglasses
Keep the rest of the outfit relatively simple if your sunglasses are making the statement.
🧺 7. The Linen Look
The US Open takes place during late summer, so breathable fabrics matter.
Linen can give you that relaxed New York summer feeling while still looking sophisticated.
Try:
Linen trousers + fitted tank + sneakers
or
Linen shorts + polo + loafers
Lightweight, polished and easy.
🎽 8. The Matching Set
Matching sets are another easy way to look styled without having to think too hard.
Try:
- Skirt + matching top
- Shorts + button-down
- Knit top + matching trousers
- Sporty two-piece set
Keep the accessories understated and let the set do the work.
💚 9. Tennis Green
If you're looking for a color that immediately communicates tennis, green is an obvious choice.
But you don't need to dress head-to-toe green.
Try:
Green polo + cream shorts
or
White dress + green sneakers
or simply add a green handbag or cap.
It's a subtle nod to the sport without becoming costume-like.
💙 10. New York Navy
Navy is another excellent choice for a US Open-inspired outfit.
Pair it with:
- White
- Cream
- Tan
- Red
- Light blue
A navy polo with white trousers is particularly timeless.
Add sneakers and a structured tote and you've got a polished spectator look.
👟 11. Prioritize Comfortable Sneakers
This might be the most important tip on the list.
Do not underestimate how much walking you'll do.
A US Open day can involve moving between courts, waiting in lines and spending hours on your feet.
Fashion editors are consistently emphasizing comfortable footwear for the tournament because it's an all-day experience.
Try:
- Clean white sneakers
- Retro tennis sneakers
- Low-profile trainers
- Minimalist leather sneakers
Your feet will thank you.
👜 12. Choose a Practical Bag
A beautiful bag is great.
A beautiful bag that doesn't work with venue rules?
Not so great.
If you're attending the US Open, check the current official bag policy before you leave, because venue security requirements can affect what you're allowed to bring. The official US Open site provides current event and ticket information.
For everyday style inspiration, consider:
- Small crossbody
- Compact shoulder bag
- Belt bag
- Structured mini tote
Function first. Fashion second.
🧥 13. Plan for the Evening
Daytime and evening can feel very different.
If you're attending a night session, bring a lightweight layer.
Try:
Tennis dress + lightweight cardigan + sneakers
or
Tank + tailored trousers + oversized shirt
A cardigan, button-down or lightweight jacket can also become part of your outfit rather than simply something you carry around.
🎀 14. Go Preppy
If your fashion personality leans toward classic prep, the US Open is your playground.
Think:
- Polo shirts
- Pleated skirts
- Cardigans
- Loafers
- Cable-knit sweaters
- Bermuda shorts
- Headbands
- Structured bags
The trick is not to wear everything at once.
Choose two or three preppy elements and keep everything else simple.
🖤 15. Go Minimalist
Not everyone wants to look like they're heading to a tennis club.
You can reference tennis without wearing traditional tennis pieces.
Try:
Black tank + tailored trousers + minimalist sneakers + sunglasses
or:
Simple midi dress + sneakers + structured bag
This creates a subtle tennis-inspired look without being obvious.
🏃 16. Try Sporty Street Style
Want something less preppy?
Mix athletic pieces with everyday fashion.
Think:
Track jacket + pleated skirt + sneakers
Oversized sports jacket + fitted shorts
Athletic top + tailored trousers
This is where tennis fashion meets streetwear.
Recent US Open style coverage has highlighted this broader sporty-chic approach rather than treating tennis skirts as the only option.
👔 17. Men's US Open Outfit Inspiration
Tennis-inspired fashion isn't just for women.
Try:
Classic
Polo + tailored shorts + sneakers
Elevated
Lightweight button-down + linen trousers + loafers
Sporty
Tennis-inspired shirt + relaxed shorts + clean sneakers
Preppy
Knit polo + pleated trousers + belt + sunglasses
The goal is polished without looking like you're attending a formal event.
💎 18. Keep Jewelry Simple
You don't need a huge collection of accessories.
A few thoughtful pieces can elevate a simple outfit:
- Small hoops
- Tennis bracelet
- Simple watch
- Pendant necklace
- Minimal rings
A tennis bracelet is an especially fun nod to the sport without being overly literal.
🎾 19. Don't Dress Like You're Playing the Match
This is probably the easiest mistake to make.
You're going to watch tennis.
You're not necessarily going to play it.
So there's no requirement to wear:
- Performance shorts
- Technical tennis tops
- Tennis shoes
- Full athletic outfits
Borrow elements from tennis fashion rather than copying an actual player's uniform.
The current spectator-style conversation is very much about sporty elegance rather than literal tenniswear.
☀️ 20. Dress for the Weather
Remember that the US Open takes place in New York during late summer.
That means your outfit should account for:
- Heat
- Humidity
- Sun
- Walking
- Sitting for long periods
- Potential temperature changes later in the day
Choose breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes.
And don't forget sunscreen.
Complete your summer match-day look with one of our wide-brim sun hats that offer real shade.
🏆 Five Easy US Open Outfit Formulas
If you don't want to think too hard, save these:
🎾 Look 1 — Classic
Pleated skirt + polo + sneakers + cap
🤍 Look 2 — Minimal
White dress + sneakers + sunglasses
🧺 Look 3 — Relaxed
Linen trousers + tank + oversized shirt + sneakers
💚 Look 4 — Sporty
Matching athletic set + baseball cap + crossbody
🏙️ Look 5 — New York Chic
Tailored Bermuda shorts + fitted top + blazer + sneakers
🚫 What Not to Wear
There's no need to overthink this, but a few things are worth considering.
Avoid uncomfortable shoes
You could be walking and standing for hours.
Avoid heavy fabrics
Late-summer New York heat isn't the time for unnecessary layers.
Avoid an enormous bag
Venue rules may restrict what you can bring.
Avoid overly complicated outfits
If you're constantly adjusting your outfit, you're not going to enjoy the match.
Avoid wearing a literal costume
Tennis-inspired is more stylish than tennis-themed.
Looking for more ways to update your summer wardrobe? Check out our guide to The Summer Fashion Trends Everyone Is Talking About.
🎾 The Pyteline Take
The best US Open outfit isn't necessarily the most expensive one.
It's the one that makes you feel like you belong in New York, in the stands, watching some of the world's best tennis—while still being comfortable enough to make it through the day.
Think:
sporty + polished + practical.
Borrow the polo.
Steal the pleats.
Add the sneakers.
Throw on the sunglasses.
And make the look your own.
Because at the US Open, the spectators are part of the show too.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to the US Open?
Opt for a comfortable but polished summer outfit. Tennis-inspired pieces such as polos, pleated skirts, dresses, tailored shorts and clean sneakers work particularly well.
Is there a dress code for the US Open?
Spectators don't have the same type of formal tennis dress expectations associated with Wimbledon, but polished, comfortable attire is a popular choice. Current fashion coverage emphasizes sporty-chic and elevated casual looks.
Can I wear jeans to the US Open?
Yes, a comfortable pair of lightweight or relaxed jeans can work, particularly for an evening session. However, breathable trousers, shorts or skirts may be more comfortable during hot daytime sessions.
What shoes should I wear?
Comfortable sneakers are one of the safest choices because you'll potentially be walking and standing for long periods.
Looking to recreate the tennis look without buying everything new? Start with secondhand fashion.
What should I bring to the US Open?
Check the official US Open's current security and bag policies before attending, since permitted items and requirements can change.
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