Most runway platforms are composed of metal and steel foundations, steadying a white boardwalk, for fit models to march across as fashion moguls and enthusiast drool over their every step. For the past two weeks, the alloyed paths of fashion show nostalgia have been replaced by chalked blades of grass and white-striped nets. The All England Club, better known as Wimbledon, was the showcase to some of the sport's most interesting and groundbreaking outfits athletic wear has ever seen.
The Williams Sisters, Roger Federer, and Maria Sharapova were among the first to display their style within the confines of the elite event. Wimbledon is known for levying a heavily enforced dress code to its participants, designating that all matches be played in white garments. Any that do not conform to the dress code are subject to elimination from the tournament. Rather than missing an opportunity at tennis immortality, players have recently made their dress innovative and legendary while adhering to protocol.
Though there may be a rule book at Wimbledon, there is no restriction on class and creativity. Roger Federer rocked a sophisticated cream cardigan sweater while warming up before his finals match. Equaled in showmanship were the outfits of Venus and Serena Williams. A twist-front dress made Venus' finals attire the best of the day. Yet, it was sister Serena's whiteout trench coat that stole the warm-up time slot. Even though Maria Sharapova made an early exit during the tournament, her presence was still acknowledged. While losing in straight sets, she scored plenty of style points for a fusion tuxedo-skirt that was received by the masses with mixed reviews.
Venus was the designer of her finals dress by way of personal clothing line, EleVen. Nike chipped in and provided Roger, Serena, and Maria with something spiffy and memorable to showcase. Polo tops, Lacoste kicks, and pre-match hoodies are now ancient in an era where winning just might not be enough. To do it in style is now the principal effort.