Anyone for tennis? Your 2025 Wimbledon Hat and Style Guide

June and July in London bring two of the season’s most iconic and stylish events — Royal Ascot and Wimbledon. For those seated in the Royal Enclosure at Ascot, the dress code is a time-honoured tradition: a morning suit in black, grey or navy, a waistcoat and tie, and, of course, a distinguished black top hat with a silk finish.

Wimbledon, though equally steeped in prestige and spectacle, comes with a more relaxed approach to attire. While formalwear isn’t required, looking refined and staying cool remains essential — particularly if you’re lucky enough to have a seat on Centre Court or Court One.

At Laird, we’re taking a closer look at the history of Wimbledon menswear — and how the right hat can help you serve up style on and off the court this summer.

What Did They Wear at Wimbledon 100 Years Ago, 

Picture it, Wimbledon, 1925, the years the sport of tennis met sophistication. 

The 1920s marked a stylish turning point in Wimbledon’s spectator fashion. Moving away from the more rigid Edwardian look, men embraced lighter fabrics, looser silhouettes, and a growing sense of ease in their attire. Linen suits, pleated trousers, and soft, unstructured blazers became summer staples. This became a reflection of the era’s embrace of leisure and movement.

Headwear followed suit. Stiff toppers and formal bowlers gave way to straw boaters, Panama hats, and the ever-popular flat cap — all better suited to watching matches under the summer sun. These hats not only provided practicality but also became a symbol of relaxed elegance. The overall effect was refined, but approachable — a Wimbledon wardrobe that balanced tradition with the freshness of a new era.

1970s: Flair on and off the Court

The 1970s brought a bold and groovy new energy to Wimbledon fashion, both in the stands and on the grass. Gone were the strictly tailored looks of earlier decades; instead, spectators leaned into softer suiting, earthy tones, and statement accessories. It was an era of individuality, and men’s fashion at Wimbledon reflected the cultural shifts of the time.

In terms of headwear, the mood turned more casual. Straw fedoras, slouchy linen caps, and even brimmed safari-style hats became popular among spectators. The influence of travel and a growing interest in personal style meant that hats were now chosen less for uniformity and more for character. Whether paired with a wide-lapelled blazer or a relaxed summer shirt, a well-chosen hat completed the look, stylish, yet undeniably laid-back, and groovy.

Today: Heritage Meets Individuality

Modern Wimbledon style blends the elegance of tradition with a fresh sense of individuality. While there’s no official dress code for most attendees, the occasion still calls for considered, well-crafted looks. You can't go wrong with lightweight tailoring, crisp shirts, and, of course, the perfect summer hat.

At Laird, we honour the rich legacy of British hat-making, using time-honoured techniques to create headwear that stands the test of time. But we also believe in taking the road less travelled. Today’s gentleman appreciates the freedom to express his own style, and our range reflects that. From classic Panama fedoras to contemporary caps that nod to tradition while speaking to the now.

For those who want something truly personal, our bespoke cap-making service offers the opportunity to design a piece that’s as individual as the wearer. 

Game, Set, Let's Match the Right Hat