The US Open has transformed into a vibrant fashion spectacle, where the tennis court doubles as a runway showcasing upscale preppy styles highlighted by chic designer outfits, tennis-themed accessories, and creative nail art. With fans embracing the glamour of the event, some have dedicated their attendance solely to the fashion rather than the sporting action. One attendee candidly expressed her priorities, stating, “I don’t care about tennis. I’m just here for the fashion,” underscoring the trend of fashionistas treating the tournament not just as a sports event, but as an opportunity to display their chic ensembles and capture stunning social media content.
Many attendees have taken to heart the notion that dressing to impress is essential at events like the US Open. Some fans are not holding back financially, with outfits reportedly costing up to $15,000. This embrace of high fashion is laid bare by attendees openly sharing that their chief motivation is to be featured in social media posts and enjoy the spotlight. Elena Miglino, a makeup artist and former reality TV contestant, exemplifies this trend, with her fashion focus complementing her playful intentions of creating engaging TikTok videos while attending the tournament.
Adding to the fashion-forward ambiance, various supporters are diverging from classic tennis attire and making their chosen outfits uniquely personal. Emma Goodwyn, a stay-at-home mom from Tennessee, showcased her individuality by donning a white tennis skirt paired with homemade heels adorned with tennis balls, noting that her style inspiration came from a trendy look worn by actress Zendaya. This balance of fandom for tennis and a flair for fashion has become a theme, illustrating how attendees are aligning their styles with the spirit of the event while also injecting their personal flair.
Numerous fans are opting for outfit choices that fuse traditional tennis elements with modern aesthetics. Nichole Schier, a banker from New Jersey, donned a playful ensemble, complete with a Kate Spade tennis ball-shaped purse and bright neon-green nail polish. Her stylish paired selections—like a fitted white skirt and a fedora—emphasized her playful approach to fashion at the event while still showcasing a connection to the sport. She aptly summarized the atmosphere by highlighting the joy of receiving compliments and the camaraderie built through shared elements of creative fashion.
The stadium’s atmosphere is further elevated by spectators sporting high-end brands and playful accessories. Alexander Hahn of Dallas embraced high fashion by incorporating Gucci and Lacoste into his attire, including a noteworthy Rolex and a custom-made tennis ring—an outfit he valued at around $15,000. This type of dedication to fashion is not simply for individual enjoyment; for many, it symbolizes an essential part of the overall experience at major tournaments like the US Open, where enthusiasts come together to celebrate both tennis and style.
Amidst the display of high fashion and inventive outfit choices, it is clear that the intersection of sport and style at the US Open fosters a unique social environment. Samuel Phillips, a young tennis buff, chose his outfit strategically, knowing that the event is heavily integrated with fashion. He too embraced the challenge of dressing to impress, understanding that the occasion is as much a fashion event as it is a sporting one. This trend reflects a fascinating cultural shift in how fans engage with live events—prioritizing personal expression and social media engagement in tandem with traditional sports enthusiasm.
