US vs UK Fashion Grand Slam
With Wimbledon 2026 underway, it got us thinking at Cafe Casino HQ, who takes the crown for tennis fashion? The Brits or The Americans? Who would you bet on? We’ve brought in culture expert Nick Ede to help us declare the match winner.
Courtside Couture Clash: US vs UK Players
American tennis players definitely know how to serve.
Search Terms like “Naomi Osaka dress”, “Naomi Osaka outfit” and “Naomi Osaka fashion” peak whenever she plays at a grand slam event. People have their eyes on her and not just for her playing.
Fashion brands have made a gamble on turning sportswear into high fashion moments. And it’s definitely paid off. Naomi Osaka just released another collab with Nike for her floral applique Wimbledon dress, selling out in hours.
Luxury houses are also wanting a piece of the pie. Using Coco Gauff’s star power, Miu Miu collabed with her and New Balance once again to unveil a new look for Wimbledon.
Nick Ede on why brands love tennis: “Unlike a red-carpet event, celebrities aren’t there specifically to promote a project, which means their style choices often feel more authentic and aspirational.
“Brands love Wimbledon because it creates a luxury lifestyle narrative, while celebrities enjoy the opportunity to showcase a more relaxed version of glamour.”
British tennis star Emma Raducanu has enjoyed similar brand deals to her American counterparts with Uniqlo and Dior, but her fashion moments aren’t as attention stealing as her fellow players from across the pond.
No strangers to Grand Slam glamor, the Americans definitely win this first point.
15 – Love
US open vs Wimbledon Dress Code
“Wimbledon is one of the few British sporting events where fashion is almost as important as the tennis itself. The key is striking the perfect balance between polished and practical. Think elegant yet functional.”
The US Open is a much more casual affair, but Nick Ede gives us styling tips that work both ways across the pond.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is wearing uncomfortable shoes. You can easily spend an entire day on your feet, walking around the grounds and moving between courts, so style should never come at the expense of comfort.
“Another common error is choosing fabrics that crease instantly or don’t breathe well in warm weather. Lightweight, breathable materials will help you look polished from morning through to evening.
“Many guests also underestimate the British weather. Even on a sunny day, it’s worth bringing an extra layer or a compact umbrella because conditions can change quickly.
“Finally, avoid bringing oversized bags. You’ll be carrying them all day, and a streamlined handbag or tote is usually a far more practical choice.”
The Wimbledon Whites rule is a tradition stretching all the way back to the tournament’s inception in 1877, and for that, we have to give the point to the UK.
15 – 15
Most Memorable Celebrity Fashion Moments at Wimbledon
The Royal Family are always in attendance at Wimbledon, which definitely works in their favor.
“The Princess of Wales’ appearances have become some of Wimbledon’s defining fashion moments. Her polka-dot Alessandra Rich dress, mint-green Balmain blazer and beautiful sunshine-yellow dresses have all become iconic.
“Beyond the Royal Family, David Beckham consistently delivers a masterclass in modern tailoring, while Sienna Miller perfectly captures effortless British summer style.”
More and more American faces are popping up at Wimbledon, leading to a star-studded crowd that might not be royalty but Wimbledon definitely pulls in the kings and queens of Hollywood. The stand have seen the likes of Leonardo Dicaprio, Matthew McConnaughey, Olivia Rodrigo, Nick Jonas and Judd Apatow.
“Among younger stars, Zendaya has become one of the most exciting fashion figures to watch, bringing a modern edge to traditional Wimbledon style.”
But Nick would love to see the following stars don their best tailored whites to support team US:
“I’d love to see Meryl Streep enjoying Centre Court. She’s the definition of timeless style and would fit perfectly into the Wimbledon atmosphere.
“It would also be fun to see Selena Gomez attend alongside her Only Murders in the Building co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short while they’re in the UK.
“George and Amal Clooney always bring elegance and star power wherever they go, while Sarah Jessica Parker would undoubtedly deliver a fashion masterclass.
“And if we’re dreaming big, seeing Taylor Swift or Madonna in the Royal Box would probably break the internet.”
The deciding point: there’s nothing more memorable than seeing royal tailoring on display, so this one has to go to the Brits.
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Who Are The Trendsetters?
“This year’s Wimbledon fashion will be heavily influenced by the continued rise of “tenniscore” – a polished, preppy aesthetic inspired by the heritage of tennis and the growing appetite for quiet luxury.
Searches for “tennis core” increased 1011% in May 2026 at the start of the French Open where Naomi Osaka unveiled an Eiffel Tour inspired fit.
“We’re likely to see tailored waistcoats, crisp white dresses and relaxed linen tailoring dominating the grounds. Colour-wise, butter yellow and pistachio green are emerging as two of the standout shades of the season.”
And who can forget Chris Evert inadvertently coining the term “tennis bracelet”, and in itself creating an entire trend lasting decades?
This one has to go to the US who constantly lead the way.
30 – 30
Most Timeless Fashion Moments At Wimbledon
“Wimbledon’s fashion history is also filled with memorable moments from Princess Diana, whose relaxed yet polished courtside style continues to inspire designers and fashion lovers today.”
“The wider trend underpinning Wimbledon style is quiet luxury. People are increasingly investing in timeless, well-made pieces rather than trend-led items covered in logos, and Wimbledon remains one of the best examples of sophistication over showmanship.”
30 – 40
Well, we definitely had our money on the Americans winning this style Grand Slam. Thanks Nick!