How To Dress for Roland Garros
Nailing down spectator style (on and off the tennis court). Plus: a press roundup of the week.
What Caught My Eye is a daily column about internet culture, people you should know about, business, shopping, and fashion.
Hello everyone, happy Thursday! My brain is on spectator mode. I wouldn’t exactly classify myself as a major tennis fan, but I’ve always had a certain level of appreciation for the style: preppy, but make it functional.
As much as I like a summery print, or a zesty bohemian look, I also really enjoy a clean white look that’s well-fitting, a polo I don’t even have to think that much about, a pair of clean sneakers, sunglasses, and a basic cap (navy, beige, or white).
When I go surfing on Pinterest for style inspiration, I cannot help but feel a little envious of the looks on the vintage Black & White photographs. A certain part of me always wishes I had been around during the days of disco, or that I could pull off a mullet.
PRESS ROUNDUP: A Look at the Headlines
Read: The Curious Case of the Loewe Tomato
Matteo Azzolini wrote a very interesting field piece about cultural marketing. He deep-dives on how brands capitalize from viral online moments, turning internet fodder into “add to cart” opportunities.
See: The 11 Shoes Nico Lazaro Has On His Mind
Guys, feelin’ fancy? This shoe guide is for you. Hint, Hint: Sabah’s Perfect Shoe of the Summer.
Shop: Swimsuits for Memorial Day Weekend That Provide Coverage
Read: Emily Sundberg’s Guest Lecture with Keith McNally
Keith is one of those really New Yorky people that just seem to be embedded into the fabric of the city. You may know him as the restauranteur behind Pastis (yum), Balthazar (swanky), or Minetta Tavern (where a steak tartare, and a little corner booth so you can watch everyone is all you need with your Martini).
WCME: Nailing Down French Open Style
What is it about tennis style that makes a look easy-to-wear? When I think about the dichotomies of the court, it’s in the confrontation of it all. The colors are usually neutral and reflective to the sun. Sometimes someone will wear a wild print and a hat, but it remains a post-war driven dress code. The sport is silent, except for the sound of the game which echoes discreetly across the stadium. You can feel the tension in the crowd, who are usually wearing clean whites and have a sweater tossed on the shoulder. Slacks seem to be a common here on men. The best way to describe the style is: functional.
Rule # 1: Clothes That Fit
The fit is key to nailing down tennis style, whether you’re a spectator or on the court. The clothes should allow you to move around, to swing in, to jump, bend and run in if you have to. Spectators however, get a pass on the running part, in favor of leather shoes or sandals.
Rule #2: Preppy, But Make It Functional
Preppy may have made a comeback, but the new age of pulling out the old stripes is less collegiate, and more energetic. Sienna Miller wore white jeans, white boot, and a navy Lacoste v-neck sweater to the French open recently, making the case for strong navy’s and matching whites. Natalie Portman, who basically lives in Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Dior, has sported a short wrap-dress with 3/4 balloon sleeves, and a fan. Coco Gauff, a rising star in tennis, tends to go for a tank top, skirt, and headband on the court.
Rule #3: Sports Suits
Don’t let the Brits have all the fun. Roland Garros is about putting a Parisian twist to the sport, and an opportunity to suit up. Early mornings still have a breeze, making it the perfect opportunity for a white jacket or a chunky (long-ish) cardigan.
Roland Garros 2025 is from 19 May - 8 June.
5 Things To Pack: The Tennis Game Edit
Your daily packing list: men’s, women’s, and summer’s best style—wherever you’re headed.
The chunky Alex Mill cotton cardigan makes this an on-and-off the court look.
Tory Burch Performance Jersey Dress, $248
Alex Mill Cover Up, $325
Celine Tennis Bag, $3,250
Salomon 3-pack unisex ankle socks, $10
On, The Roger Pro tennis shoes, $200
Share, like, show some love by upgrading to paid.
Tennis is a great place to look for style on and off the court. Loved your passing nod to prints on the court. I flinch just a little when I see it. Great vintage photos.