Wimbledon: The Great Sporting Brands
We are currently amid the oldest and perhaps, the most famous tennis tournament in the world – Wimbledon. Wimbledon as we know it, is a far cry from its origins in 1877. Held in the croquet lawns of the All-England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club, it was open to ‘all amateurs’ and was strictly male only. 22 players entered the first men’s only championship and there was very little buzz around the then niche sport. Momentum was then slowly accrued throughout the early years, 1884 saw the first women’s championship. The tournament then moved from its original rented site and moved to its present-day grounds. With the momentum growing larger and larger, the tournament made history when it became the first ever broadcast to be televised in colour.
Wimbledon now welcomes a swarm of goers for two weeks every year, who are eager to take part in the quintessentially British festivities which includes: Pimms and strawberries and cream. A day out at Wimbledon has become a social necessity and yet, is still accessible to all.
Another distinct feature about tennis, is the time-honoured all white dress code. It is clear that fashion and tennis intertwine with the likes of tennis legends such as Fred Perry and Bjorn Borg creating their own brands.
We've pieced together a run down of our favourite tennis brands and tennis inspired attire.
Fred Perry
Fred Perry is synonymous with tennis and fashion. Fred Perry – the tennis player was previously no.1 in the world and is one of the best British tennis players of all time, with 55 career titles under his belt.
After retirement, his successes did not holt. Teaming up with Ex-Australian Footballer Tibby Wegner on a branded sweatband, the pair decided to launch a polo shirt soon after. The first Fred Perry polo shirt appeared in 1952 and it was marketed specifically as a tennis shirt. The all white polo shirt adorned with the wreath branding of today is a nod to the Wimbledon symbol. The success of this was closely followed with an extended range in a variation of colours.
Fast forward to 2021, and it is hard to believe just how diverse the brand has become. It still symbolises quality, championship, and timeless heritage but has become multi-faceted and contemporary. It is now associated with numerous sub-culture groups and holds varying meanings.
Just this week we have added to our existing collection of Fred Perry by welcoming in new spring/summer 2021 pieces. Below are our top picks for this season!
Fred Perry Contrast Trim Polo
This silhouette is the first piece you think of when Fred Perry is mentioned. With numerous colourways available, this differentiates itself with the navy and red trim detail.
Fred Perry Knitted Panel Track Jacket
This is ideal for those cooler spring/summer days or nights. This can be layered with your summer attire to add a touch of sportswear elegance. The shirt style collar detail adds another contemporary touch to this essential.
Fred Perry Oxford Shirt
This shirt is a perfect example of a shirt that can be worn casually and formally - you could even wear it to watch the tennis! The crisp white colour echoes tennis and the Fred Perry logo adds a stamp of sports luxe.
Sergio Tacchini
Sergio Tacchini was founded in 1966 by Italian tennis champion of the same name. This namesake brand echoes that of Fred Perry. This brand, however, takes on a different narrative, injecting colour into the plain white tennis attire. Known for the retro vibe, the brand has stuck to what they do best and all of their designs are easily identifiable, only subtly changing since the brands origins.
Sponsorship is one of the many elements that all sports brands have in common. The most notable players sponsored by Sergio Tacchini include John McEnroe, Pete Sampras and Martina Navratilora.
Although, distinctly a tennis brand because of its origins, the brand went on to become associated with football and casuals. The uptake of this association can be credited to The Firm - a 2009 British film about football gangs. Sergio Tacchini was the brand of choice for the casuals within the film.
Sergio Tacchini Supermac Tee
This classic t-shirt features white collar and trims which makes it easily identifiable as sportswear. This transitional piece can be worn on and off the court.
Sergio Tacchini Ghibli Track Top S
Need a piece for warming up or wearing post match? This track top is both functional and fashionable. The addition of orange and green, mimics the brands USP of adding colour to the classic tennis white.
Sergio Tacchini Stonewoods Bucket Hat
The bucket hat is a summer essential, especially when you've forgotten your SPF.
Fila Vintage
Italian sportswear giant Filas tennis heritage is omni-present with its unsubtle hints to the sport. Known for the navy, red and white branding - Fila is renowned for being practical and stylish.
Only breaking into tennis wear in the 1970's, Fila had fierce competition from various other brands. In 1975, Fila landed tennis icon Bjorn Borg which gave them a competitive advantage. The silhouettes sported in the 70's still retail today. Lets have a look at our Fila must haves.
Fila Baseball Cap
This ultimate sporting accessory is ideal when playing or watching the tennis. This navy, white and red is classic Fila. This will top off any sporting look.
Fila Ringer Tee
This tee is in the classic tennis white and looks excellent paired with the shorts below! This staple looks great layered under sweatshirt or overshirt.
Fila Hightide Shorts
This is retro at its finest, referencing the 1970's tennis look of Bjorn Borg. These can be worn for any sporting activity or to bask in the sun.
Get the Tennis Look
Many other brands tap into variations of classic tennis wear because of the global appeal and demand. From tennis shoes to polo shirts, below we have put together a tennis inspired outfit.
Fred Perry Cap
This cap will top off any look. The Fred Perry logo is a stamp of heritage and luxe.
Ma.strum SS Pique Polo Shirt
The ever classic staple of tennis - the polo shirt. This Ma.strum piece features the subtle yet striking logo and is in a crisp white colour.
Red Point Surray Shorts
These shorts are the perfect smart casual attire for watching Wimbledon. The classic navy colour makes them easy to style.
Tommy Hilfiger Corporate Leather TrainersT
The tennis shoe is a wardrobe staple and will never go out of fashion. It is clear why the style is so popular - the ease of styling. These Tommy Hilfiger trainers elevate the existing tennis shoe style.
