What To Wear to the U.S. Open

A question I get every single year in June makes me jealous, but it’s also really fun: What should I wear to the U.S. Open? The problem is that I’ve never actually been. But, because I love my readers, I went so deep into a rabbit hole researching outfit ideas, dress code expectations, and what spectators really wear that I now feel I deserve a ticket myself. For further research, obviously.

Quick note: this post is about the U.S. Open tennis tournament in New York from August 23 to September 13, 2026, not the U.S. Open golf championship. If you’re headed to Flushing Meadows, these are the exact types of outfits I’d go for.

Is There a Dress Code at the U.S. Open?

The U.S. Open doesn’t have a strict dress code for spectators. Unlike Wimbledon, where crisp whites and traditional attire are part of the culture, New York’s tournament is more relaxed. Celebrities like Taylor Swift, Anna Wintour, and Zendaya have helped turn the U.S. Open into as much a fashion event as it is a sporting event.

With that said, it’s definitely a more elevated event, and you’ll see everything from linen sets to elevated day dresses. The key is to balance comfort (you’ll be walking and sitting for hours) with polish (this is one of NYC’s biggest social sporting events). Skip the casual tees and distressed denim. Here’s what to wear instead.

What Spectators Wear: Daytime vs. Evening Sessions

While there’s no official dress code for spectators, most attendees naturally adjust their outfits based on the session they’re attending.

Day Sessions

Day matches tend to be the hottest part of the tournament, so lightweight fabrics are your best friend. You’ll see plenty of linen shorts, breezy dresses, tennis skirts, sunglasses, and comfortable sneakers. Think breathable cottons and linens over anything structured or heavy.

Evening Sessions

Night sessions at Arthur Ashe often attract a slightly more elevated crowd. Knit dresses, blazers, tailored trousers, loafers, ballet flats, and elevated accessories are common. You don’t need cocktail attire, but many spectators dress a bit more formally than they do during the day.

A Note on Layering

A classic cardigan works well over a dress during the day and can be draped over your shoulders at night if it gets a little chilly. It also helps dress up any outfit that leans a little more casual. If you prefer a more polished look, a lightweight blazer transitions easily from afternoon matches to evening sessions.

Things to Think About Before Picking Your Outfit

A little planning goes a long way:

The Time of Year

The U.S. Open runs in late August through early September, so weather can swing from hot and humid to breezy and cool. Early afternoon matches often call for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, while evening matches might need a light sweater or jacket.

The Location

Arthur Ashe Stadium is outdoors, which means you’ll likely spend hours moving between direct sun and shaded areas throughout the day. Hats and sunglasses are essentials, and non-toxic sunscreen is non-negotiable.

How Long You’re Going

If you’re planning a full day at the U.S. Open, what you wear becomes even more important — especially accessories. Go for shoes you can truly walk in and a bag that holds essentials without weighing you down.

What I’d Wear to the U.S. Open

If I were headed to the U.S. Open, this is exactly what I’d wear:

Day Session Outfit Ideas

Black tank + Trouser Shorts + Sambas

This is chic and classic and it also gives classic Ralph Lauren vibes, which is fitting since they’re the official outfitter of the U.S. Open. Sambas look intentional but are comfortable enough for a full day on your feet.

White Knit Top + Skirt Set

This outfit looks much more expensive than it actually is. The matching knit pieces are clean and a little dressier than a typical daytime look, making it a great option if you’re heading to an evening session or going out afterward.

Lightweight Embroidered Shorts Set + Simple Sandals

Matching shorts sets are one of the easiest things to wear when you want to look put together without thinking too hard about it. This lightweight embroidered set is perfect for a hot day at the U.S. Open. Add simple sandals and a woven bag, and you’re good to go.

A Matching Skirt Set

A matching set takes all the guesswork out of getting dressed. It has the same easy feel as a dress, but the separates make it a little breezierr. Just add neutral sandals and sunglasses, and you’re ready for a full day at the Open.

If dresses are more your thing, check out my favorite Tuckernuck dresses since their collection of dresses nails the elevated but realistic options you’ll want. And if you’ll be doing a lot of walking, don’t be afraid to pair dresses with sneakers.

Evening Session Outfit Ideas

A Green Tank + White Skirt

This top is an easy way to lean into the tenniscore trend without looking like you’re headed onto the court. The green knit tank gives it that sporty-prep feel, while the white skirt is more dressed up than a tennis skirt. Add oversized sunglasses and a straw bag.

A White Linen Dress + Lightweight Cardigan

A white linen dress is a must in my summer capsule wardrobe for this reason. It will work for a daytime session with flats or an evening session with heels and is breezy enough for heat but layers well with a cardigan. Perfection.

A Black Dress + Flat Sandals

This black maxi dress is exactly what I’d wear to an evening session at Arthur Ashe. It’s polished but not overly dressy. Throw on a comfy pair of strappy sandals and a cute shoulder bag (this cutie Cuyana Dia bag is my favorite lately).

A Maxi Skirt + A Structured Bag

Wearing a maxi skirt is an easy way to look put together. I’d pair it with a simple tee, comfortable sandals, and a structured bag so it reads chic instead of homeschool. Here’s more tips to style a maxi skirt.

Accessories

The outfits get all the attention, but the right accessories can make a long day at the U.S. Open a lot more comfortable.

Jewelry

I like keeping jewelry simple. The Cleo Bracelet Set and Heaven Mayhem’s Baby Knot Earrings are pieces I wear on repeat because they work with everything. They’re intentional without being fussy, which is exactly what I want for a long day outside.

Shoes

If there’s one thing I wouldn’t compromise on, it’s comfortable shoes. You’ll likely spend more time walking than you expect, so make sure you’re wearing pairs you can comfortably wear all day. I find myself reaching for the Palermo Sandal and Lily Liners over and over again because they work with just about every outfit and still feel comfortable after hours on my feet.

Bags

You’ll want a bag that’s easy to carry all day but still feels classic enough for dinner or an evening match afterward. For day sessions, I love a raffia bag like the J.Crew Handknotted Raffia Clutch because it feels summery and pairs effortlessly with dresses, skirts, and matching sets. If you’re looking for something more versatile, the Sera Bag is one of my favorite everyday bags.

Sunglasses

Don’t forget a good pair of sunglasses. I usually pack a slim oval pair for a more classic, understated look, but I also love the Collins Sunglasses when I want something with a little more coverage. Either way, they’re on

Final Thoughts

Dress up a little bit but don’t overdo it. Think tailored shorts, easy dresses, matching sets, and comfortable shoes you can wear from the first match to the last. The goal is to look put together without feeling overdressed. Now you’re ready for both the match and the Instagram photo ops. As for me, I’m still accepting U.S. Open tickets in the name of research.

P.S. Since you’re apparently the type who gets to go to coveted sporting events, if you’re headed to Augusta next spring and need Masters outfit ideas I have you covered with first-hand experience attending.

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