Greetings, Lykkers! Among the many traditions in the world of sports, few are as instantly recognizable as Wimbledon’s famous all-white dress code.

For athletes stepping onto the grass courts of this renowned London event, packing is not about making fashion statements.

Instead, it’s all about following one of the most iconic and strict clothing guidelines in tennis. Let’s take a closer look at how this rule came to be and what it means today.

The Legacy of White: A Deep-Rooted Tradition

The preference for white in tennis attire dates back to the late 19th century, when lawn tennis began to grow in popularity. Back then, players traditionally wore white outfits during matches on grass courts.

This style was associated with elegance, simplicity, and comfort during physical activity. Men commonly wore flannel trousers, while women donned long skirts with full-length stockings — all in white tones, although cream was sometimes used as well.

The Turning Point in the 1960s

For decades, white remained the expected color for players at Wimbledon. That standard was gently tested in 1962 when a prominent player, Maria Bueno, wore clothing that included noticeable colored accents. The following year, organizers responded by issuing a formal rule requiring competitors to wear “predominantly white” outfits. This step marked the beginning of the dress code as it is known today.

A Rule That Became More Stringent

As the sport evolved and styles grew bolder in the 1970s, tournaments around the world began embracing colorful sportswear. However, Wimbledon chose a different path. While other events introduced bright patterns and creative apparel, the London tournament doubled down on tradition.

Over time, the “predominantly white” guideline was tightened. Eventually, rules were updated to specify that clothing must be “almost entirely white,” rejecting even shades like ivory and cream.

Keeping the Focus on the Sport

According to the organizing club, this rule is not about style — it’s about fairness and focus. All players, from reigning champions to new qualifiers, must follow the same standard. This policy promotes equality on the court and ensures that attention remains on performance rather than appearance. In this way, Wimbledon honors the essence of the game, keeping things simple and dignified.

The Strict Guidelines Today

The current Wimbledon dress code is among the most specific in professional sports. Here are the key points:

- Main Color Must Be White: Outfits must be almost entirely white. Off-white tones, such as cream or ivory, are not allowed.

- Small Colored Edges Permitted: Subtle colored trim is allowed — no wider than 1 cm — around the neckline, sleeves, or side seams of skirts and shorts.

- Minimal Logos and Designs: Large logos or bold prints are not permitted. The overall appearance should be clean and simple.

- White Accessories Only: Hats, headbands, wristbands, and socks must be white, though minimal color accents are allowed (again, up to 1 cm).

- Shoes Must Follow Suit: Footwear should be nearly all white, including soles and laces.

- Undergarments Must Be Discreet: Items such as undershorts must also be white if visible, though a 1 cm colored trim is permitted.

- Exceptions for Certain Garments: Female athletes are allowed to wear under-shorts of another color, as long as they do not extend beyond the outer garment.

- Medical Supports: While white is preferred for supports and braces, exceptions are made when a different color is required for health reasons.

A Symbol of Wimbledon’s Identity

This strict adherence to the white dress code has become one of the defining characteristics of Wimbledon. It reflects a philosophy that prizes sportsmanship, discipline, and equality. While the rule has sparked discussion and occasional controversy, it remains a respected symbol of the tournament’s distinct character.

Conclusion: Timeless Tradition for the Lykkers to Admire

Wimbledon’s all-white dress code goes beyond simple fashion. It’s a tribute to the sport’s origins and a way to ensure that performance remains center stage. For tennis fans and Lykkers alike, it serves as a fascinating example of how tradition and excellence can go hand in hand. So next time you watch a match at this iconic event, remember — the white isn’t just for looks. It’s part of what makes Wimbledon truly unique.