Last year, Curtis and I were lucky enough to attend the US Open Women’s Semi-Finals — an unforgettable, core memory. We happened to be in town for a few New York Fashion Week engagements, which was exciting in itself, but when I realized the tournament overlapped, I knew we had to make it happen. Curtis acted a little lukewarm about the whole thing, even joking about leaving early to get a good night’s sleep! (Insert eye roll and cheesy joke about being in the city that never sleeps.) But that never happened — he was just as enthralled as I was.
I love watching live tennis, and it’s hard for anyone to deny the electricity in the stadium during those matches. We got to see two very different, but equally entertaining games: Pegula vs. Muchova and Navarro vs. Sabalenka. You don’t have to be a tennis player or die-hard fan to enjoy an event like this — it’s an iconic, ultimate experience to witness the best in the world battle it out at Arthur Ashe Stadium. It’s even better with a cute outfit on and a signature Honey Deuce in hand! So today, similar to my Masters outfit ideas post, I’m going to break down some tips for planning the perfect US Open outfit.
What is the US Open?
The US Open is one of the most highly attended tennis tournaments in the United States—and for good reason! Not only do you get to watch some of the best players in the world compete, but it’s also a hotspot for celebrity sightings. The tournament takes place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York. It’s the final Grand Slam of the year and features men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and wheelchair events. With its high energy and lively atmosphere, the US Open is as much about the experience as it is the sport. We’re hoping one day to bring the girls, not just to see some matches but would also love to attend the Arthur Ashe Kids Day, which is a free, family friendly day of exhibitions games, interactive clinics, and special guests like Dude, Perfect.
What to Expect at the US Open
A single visit to the US Open doesn’t make me an expert, but I’ve been to others — including a few times at Wimbledon — and I’ve drawn from those experiences to offer inspiration, especially for anyone shopping size-inclusive styles. I wasn’t sure if I was on the right page with my outfit choices before I went, as it was a pretty last minute stroke of luck that we were able to go, but once I was there I felt super comfortable.
The other spectators wore everything from athletic-inspired looks, to outfits like mine — and even some who clearly came straight from the office. Whatever you end up choosing to wear, here are some things to keep in mind:
How Much Walking Will You Be Doing?
While you’ll be seated during the matches, there’s usually a fair amount of walking around the grounds. Getting to and from the stadium can add to that, too. For us, that looked like walking from the hotel to the train station (which was faster than taking a cab or subway at the time), and then from the train station to the stadium. It wasn’t bad at all, but I knew I definitely didn’t want my shoe attire to get in the way of a good time.
So my best advice? Be comfortable! For me, that means trusted tennis shoes, sandals, or flats—whatever you know you can wear all day without a second thought.
Temperature
The average high during the US Open is usually in the low to mid-80s, with lows around 70 degrees. It might be obvious, but definitely check the weather as you finalize your outfit plans.
Since our matches were in the evening, I brought a sweater to throw over my shoulders—I knew heading back around midnight would get a bit chilly. I was glad to have that extra layer, and it never felt too warm.
For an all-day event with full sun, I’d be sure to pack sunscreen and reapply generously. Including a hat in your day time outfit would be a must for me, personally. Taking in a recent golf tournament, I even wore a breathable, long-sleeved button-down over a Hillhouse dress to protect my arms from the sun. You can always tie it around your waist if you get too warm!
Sitting in a Stadium
When I’m sitting in stadium seats, I prefer a knee-length to midi dresses. The rows can be so close together that the people in front of me seem practically in my lap! Having a longer dress feels like a little insurance—no accidental flashing when I get up or let someone pass by.
If I wear shorter dresses, I always opt for bike shorts underneath. Not because of chafing (thank you, Megababe Thigh Rescue!), but for modesty and peace of mind.
Tournament Restrictions
Like many events, the US Open only allows one bag per guest and has specific purse size restrictions. You can check the official guidelines here and while I’ve tried to link bags below that fit within those dimensions, be sure to double-check before you go to be sure!
US Open Outfit Ideas
I’ve pulled together five US Open outfit ideas that I’d wear and that feel right for the vibe of the tournament—stylish, comfortable, and a little bit sporty. Whether you’re going for classic and preppy or leaning into the tenniscore trend, these looks will have you feeling polished and put-together while still being practical for a long day of matches (and maybe even celeb-spotting!).
1. A Classic Blue & White Look
You can never go wrong with a classic blue and white outfit. A cotton shirtdress is one of my go-to pieces: it’s lightweight, comfortable, and polished without trying too hard. I like to pair it with crisp white sneakers for comfort that lasts all day. To finish the look, add some diamond studs, a cute sunhat (I’m loving the pop of yellow!), aviator sunnies, and a bucket-style crossbody bag. Simple, stylish, and effortlessly timeless.
2. A Coastal-Inspired US Open Outfit
Living in Florida, I’m all about classic coastal style—and luckily, the coastal and tenniscore aesthetics blend perfectly. This J.Crew Factory shirtdress is a staple in my wardrobe because of its fit and versatility. It’s the perfect casual dress for a tennis tournament, and those blue-and-white stripes give off the coastal vibe I love so much. I like to pair it with an adorable tennis straw clutch (honestly, what a perfect bag for the US Open!), retro-inspired Tretorn white sneakers, tortoise sunglasses, and a cute pair of gold earrings. You can optimize the cross body versatility of any purse with an insert adapter like this one.
3. For the Girly Girl
If you’re like me, you might want an outfit that’s a little dressier and more feminine for the US Open. One great and reliable option is a gorgeous white summer dress—you really can’t go wrong with white at a tennis tournament! You could pair it with bow slide sandals for that extra girly touch.
To add a pop of preppy, I’d throw on a striped blue-and-white button-down cardigan. And how perfect are these diamond-studded tennis racket earrings?! Finish the look with round sunglasses and a cane monogrammed crossbody bag (which is waterproof—score!)
4. A Colorful US Open Outfit
One of the things I love about this tournament is how flexible the dress code is—you definitely don’t have to wear white, so it’s a great chance to have fun with color. The Hill House nap dresses, especially this green striped one, make for playful and stylish US Open outfits. Keep the accessories preppy and timeless with white canvas sneakers, a cane crossbody, knot stud earrings, tortoise-shell sunnies, and a pretty sunhat with cute tennis ball details.
5. An Easy US Open Outfit
If I could give just one piece of advice for what to wear to a tennis tournament, it’s this: keep it easy and comfortable. The Cosima Hill House nap dress is one of those classic, throw-on-and-go pieces that’s effortless to wear and style. I usually go for timeless blue-and-white stripes or navy, but there are tons of colors and patterns that would all work beautifully for a US Open outfit.
These dresses pair perfectly with white sneakers for extra comfort. I like to finish the look with fun accessories like this Sunshine Tienda tennis ball bucket hat, gold hoop earrings, a classic navy crossbody, and a rising sun pendant necklace. Oh, and don’t forget a classic pair of sunglasses!
US Open Outfit Style Guide
If you’re lucky enough to attend this prestigious tournament (or maybe you’re hosting a tennis-themed party!), I hope these US Open outfit ideas help you decide what to wear. It’s such a classic, fun American event that’s definitely worth celebrating!
For even more style inspiration, be sure to check out these posts:
- Everything I Wore on Nantucket
- Textured Handbags I Love
- Masters Outfit Ideas
- The Best Plus-Size Clothing Destinations
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