Fashion

Your Guide to Stylish Outfits for the US Open

Gloria Vanderbilt
By Gloria VanderbiltAug 09, 2026
Read time3 min

The US Open tennis championship is almost here, and securing your tickets to Arthur Ashe Stadium means it's time to plan your spectator style. With nearly a million attendees expected over three weeks in 2026, this New York sporting spectacle is renowned not just for the tennis but also for its fashionable crowd. Drawing inspiration from the event's classic aesthetic, exemplified by Ralph Lauren's iconic Americana designs worn by ball boys and girls, and the prevalence of stylish tennis whites, the atmosphere promises a blend of athleticism and sartorial elegance.

To truly master your US Open ensemble, the secret lies in balancing ease with sophistication. Whether you opt for a refined tunic paired with minimalist sandals or a classic polo matched with a pleated tennis skirt, comfort is paramount for an all-day event. Rosalia, with her vintage-inspired suede jacket and hair bow, and Jessica Alba, seen in chic blue sunglasses, offered prime examples of stylish courtside dressing last year. The upcoming championships invite attendees to explore various looks, ensuring both comfort and flair as they move between matches.

Perfecting Your Courtside Style

As the US Open approaches, finding the ideal ensemble means combining effortless comfort with a touch of elegance. Think versatile pieces like a sophisticated tunic paired with understated flat sandals, or a timeless polo shirt matched with a chic pleated tennis skirt. The key is to choose footwear that can withstand an entire day of moving around, such as stylish yet supportive sneakers. Last year’s event saw celebrities like Rosalia and Jessica Alba setting trends, showcasing that looking polished doesn't mean sacrificing comfort. Their choices, from classic preppy elements to modern accessories, highlight the diverse fashion landscape of the tournament.

For those attending the 2026 US Open, comfort is as crucial as style, especially since it's an all-day event. Previous years have shown a preference for classic, refined looks, such as those featuring Ralph Lauren’s signature pieces. Spectators often embrace tennis whites and other coordinated outfits that reflect the sport's heritage. Whether you opt for a sporty mini skirt and a knit polo, or a more casual yet refined combination of a striped tee and white denim, the focus remains on looking effortlessly chic. Don't overlook the importance of comfortable shoes, like those from Zendaya's collaboration with On, which perfectly blend style and practicality, making them ideal for navigating the expansive grounds of the US Open while maintaining a fashionable edge.

Embracing Modern Athletic Chic

Modern athletic chic is a fantastic way to approach your US Open wardrobe, blending contemporary trends with functional comfort. Consider combining a streamlined knit polo with a crisp pleated tennis skort for an updated take on preppy style, finished with a pair of sleek Nike sneakers. For days with unpredictable weather, a lightweight nylon track jacket can be effortlessly layered over a simple tank top and paired with a full skirt, creating a fashion-forward yet practical outfit. This approach ensures you’re prepared for any conditions while exuding a sophisticated, sporty vibe. Adding a stylish bucket hat can further elevate the ensemble, making it both eccentric and athletic.

The essence of modern athletic wear for the US Open lies in versatile pieces that offer both performance and panache. A knit polo dress, paired with comfortable sneakers and a thick headband, seamlessly integrates into the tournament’s aesthetic while providing ease for a long day of spectating. Alternatively, a classic striped tee worn with white denim shorts presents a relaxed yet polished courtside look. Incorporating a classic brim hat and fisherman sandals adds a distinctive touch to these contemporary ensembles. These curated outfit ideas allow you to pay homage to tennis traditions while making a contemporary fashion statement, ensuring you are impeccably dressed for one of New York’s most anticipated sporting events.

Gloria Vanderbilt
authorBy Gloria Vanderbilt

Fashion designer, artist, and author, known for jeans and writing about style and her extraordinary life.

Other Articles

The Enduring Legacy of Anthony Bourdain: A Culinary Maverick's JourneyAug 08, 2026

The Enduring Legacy of Anthony Bourdain: A Culinary Maverick's Journey

This article explores the multifaceted life of Anthony Bourdain, from his formative years in the restaurant industry and rise to literary fame with "Kitchen Confidential" to his global travels as a television personality. It delves into his unique blend of candidness, intellectual curiosity, and rebellious spirit that captivated audiences, and his ambitious, albeit ultimately unrealized, vision for Bourdain Market. The piece also touches on his personal struggles, his dedication to family, and the profound impact of his work on popular culture and the culinary world.

Miuccia PradaBy Miuccia Prada
IAMISIGO's Spring 2027 Collection: Blending African Heritage with Modern SustainabilityAug 08, 2026

IAMISIGO's Spring 2027 Collection: Blending African Heritage with Modern Sustainability

IAMISIGO's latest collection, unveiled at Copenhagen Fashion Week, draws inspiration from traditional African memory-keeping practices, such as the Luba lukasa boards and Asante royal headdresses. Designer Bubu Ogisi showcases garments that reflect the earth's memory and feature intricate designs, all while championing sustainable innovation through indigenous crafts and unconventional natural materials like Ugandan bark cloth and banana fibers.

Tan FranceBy Tan France
Hollywood's Elite and Their Coveted Timepieces: A Glimpse into Celebrity Watch CollectionsAug 08, 2026

Hollywood's Elite and Their Coveted Timepieces: A Glimpse into Celebrity Watch Collections

This article explores the exquisite watch choices of several prominent figures in Hollywood. From Christopher Nolan's custom Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso with a hidden Bat-signal to Jacob Batalon's distinctive Rolex GMT-Master II 'Sprite', and Brett Goldstein's elegant Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface, these timepieces are more than just accessories; they are reflections of personal style, cinematic connections, and horological appreciation. Bobby Flay's classic Rolex Day-Date and Igby Rigney's IWC Ingenieur Automatic 35 further showcase the diverse tastes among celebrities.

Ruth E. CarterBy Ruth E. Carter