The US Open is more than just one of the biggest tennis tournaments in the world—it’s one of New York’s best fashion moments. From courtside celebrities to stylish tennis fans, the stands at Arthur Ashe Stadium have become their own runway.
If you’re heading to the US Open this year, the goal is simple: look polished, sporty, and effortlessly New York—while still being comfortable enough to spend hours watching tennis.
The 2026 US Open runs from August 23 through September 13, which means you’ll want to plan for warm, potentially humid weather during the day and cooler temperatures once the sun goes down. The USTA specifically recommends light-colored clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and staying hydrated because late-August and early-September temperatures can be high. (US Open)
Think Tennis, But Make It Fashion
This is not the time to look like you’re actually headed onto the court. Instead, take inspiration from tennis and elevate it.
Think:
- Pleated skirts paired with a fitted polo or fashion-forward top- this is perfection!
- Sporty dresses styled with chic sneakers
- Tailored shorts with a crisp button-down
- Tennis-inspired sweaters or lightweight jackets
- Classic white mixed with navy, black, green, or pops of color
- Visors, baseball caps, tennis bucket hats and oversized sunglasses
- A great crossbody or small shoulder bag
The best US Open outfits have that country-club-meets-New-York-City feel—sporty without looking like athleticwear from head to toe.
The Tennis Dress
A tennis-inspired dress is probably the easiest way to nail the look.
Choose a sleek athletic dress, collared dress, or elevated activewear dress and pair it with fashion sneakers, a structured crossbody, and sunglasses. You’ll be comfortable walking around the grounds but still look completely pulled together.
For any session, white, cream, light blue, classic tennis green or navy feels especially appropriate.
The Pleated Skirt
The pleated tennis skirt is a US Open classic—and you don’t have to wear it like you’re actually playing.
Pair it with:
A fitted polo for a classic tennis look.
An oversized button-down for a more fashion-forward vibe.
A fitted tank and lightweight sweater for an easy layered look.
Add sneakers and a visor, and you have an outfit that feels sporty, feminine, and completely on theme.
Fashion publications have consistently highlighted pleated skirts, polos, tennis whites, poplin dresses, and sporty separates as strong spectator looks for the US Open. (Vogue)
Tennis Whites Are Always a Good Idea
There’s something about the US Open that makes an all-white outfit feel especially chic.
Try:
White dress + sneakers + sunglasses
White pleated skirt + white polo + colorful accessories
White shorts + fitted tank + lightweight sweater
Or mix white with navy for a classic Americana-inspired look.
You don’t need to wear head-to-toe white, but incorporating tennis whites instantly gives your outfit that US Open feeling.
Bring a Layer for Night Matches
This is one of the most important things to remember.
A daytime outfit that feels perfect in the August heat may not be enough when you’re sitting through an evening session.
Bring a lightweight sweater, cardigan, quarter-zip, or fashion jacket that you can throw over your outfit once the sun goes down.
A sweater draped over your shoulders also adds an easy preppy touch.
Finish It With the Right Accessories
This is where you can really make the outfit feel like US Open fashion rather than simply activewear.
Think:
A visor or baseball cap — practical and stylish, especially during a sunny day session.
Oversized sunglasses — instantly gives the look a little more New York.
Tennis-inspired jewelry — a tennis bracelet or simple tennis-ball-inspired charm is a fun nod to the event.
A structured crossbody — chic, practical, and easier to manage than a large handbag.
A lightweight sweater — both functional and stylish.
The Golden Rule: Sporty + Polished
If you’re wondering whether your outfit is right for the US Open, ask yourself:
Would I wear this to a country club lunch in the city?
If the answer is yes, you’re probably on the right track.
The US Open is the perfect excuse to embrace tennis-inspired fashion without looking like you’re actually playing tennis. Think preppy, feminine, sporty, polished, and just a little bit glamorous.
And remember: you’re in New York. A little fashion moment is absolutely encouraged.
Game. Set. Style. 🎾