Courtside fashion at the Australian Open: ‘People are definitely dressing up more’ | Australian Open

Here’s a breakdown of teh key points from the text, focusing on the evolving culture of the Australian Open:

* “Festivalisation” of the Event: Tennis Australia, under Craig Tiley, has intentionally transformed the australian Open into more than just a sporting event. It’s become a social and cultural experience.
* Record Attendance: This strategy is working, with record attendance numbers (averaging 100,000 people per day for the first five days).
* Elevated Fashion: Attendees are dressing more stylishly than in the past. The style is described as “1990s New York City style icon Carolyn Bessette Kennedy coded, but with less of the elitism” with a focus on comfortable yet fashionable choices.
* Social Atmosphere: The crowd is described as buzzing and social, treating tennis as a backdrop for socializing, eating, and networking.
* Brand Integration: Luxury and sports brands (Gucci, Reebok, Viktoria & Woods, Wilson, Mecca) are heavily involved, hosting events and launching collections, capitalizing on the event’s increased visibility and fashionable crowd.
* Comparison to Horse Racing: the article draws a contrast with horse racing (specifically the Spring Racing Carnival), which is experiencing a decline in cultural relevance. The Australian Open, in contrast, is gaining momentum as a fashionable and popular event.
* Shift in Demeanor: The atmosphere is described as more relaxed and friendly “like a barbeque.”

In essence, the Australian Open is actively cultivating a more fashionable, social, and broadly appealing atmosphere, successfully positioning itself as a cultural event alongside being a major sporting competition.

What are the top fashion trends for courtside attendees at the Australian Open 2026?

courtside Fashion at the Australian Open: ‘people are Definitely Dressing Up More’

The Australian Open isn’t just a showcase of athletic prowess; it’s rapidly becoming a major fashion event. Over the past few years,a noticeable shift has occurred in the stands,with attendees increasingly embracing bold styles and refined looks. This year, the trend is undeniable: people are definitely dressing up more. From celebrity sightings to influencer-led trends, the courtside scene at Melbourne Park is a vibrant display of personal style.

The Evolution of Courtside Style

Historically, Australian Open attendees favored cozy, practical attire suited for the Melbourne summer heat. While comfort remains a priority, there’s been a clear move towards more curated outfits. This evolution mirrors a broader trend in sports event fashion, where being seen is as significant as seeing the game.

* Early 2000s: Predominantly casual – think jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers.

* Mid-2010s: The emergence of designer logos and branded sportswear.

* Late 2010s – Present: A blend of high fashion, streetwear, and athletic-inspired pieces, with a focus on individuality.

This year, the influence of social media is particularly strong. tiktok and Instagram are flooded with #AustralianOpenFashion and #CourtsideStyle, showcasing the best looks and inspiring attendees to elevate their game.

Key Trends Spotted at Melbourne Park in 2026

Several distinct trends are dominating the courtside fashion landscape at the 2026 Australian Open:

1. Bold Colors & Prints: Forget muted tones. This year, it’s all about making a statement. Radiant pinks, electric blues, and vibrant oranges are everywhere.floral prints, geometric patterns, and even animal prints are adding a playful touch to outfits.

2. Elevated Athleisure: The athleisure trend isn’t going anywhere, but it’s been refined. Think tailored tracksuits, luxury sneakers, and performance fabrics styled with high-fashion accessories. Brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Adidas are consistently popular, but are now being paired with designer handbags and statement jewelry.

3. The Return of Tailoring: surprisingly, tailored pieces are making a strong comeback. Blazers,wide-leg trousers,and even structured dresses are being incorporated into courtside looks,offering a sophisticated contrast to the sporty setting.

4. Statement Sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from the Australian sun is essential,but sunglasses have become a fashion accessory in their own right. Oversized frames, bold colors, and designer brands are all the rage.

5. Accessories as the Focal Point: Bags, hats, and jewelry are being used to elevate even the simplest outfits. Crossbody bags are particularly popular for their practicality, while statement earrings and chunky necklaces add a touch of glamour.

Celebrity & Influencer Impact

The presence of celebrities and influencers considerably impacts courtside fashion. This year, several high-profile figures have already made headlines with their stylish appearances.

* Zendaya: Spotted in a custom-designed tennis dress by Australian designer Dion Lee.

* Timothée Chalamet: Opted for a relaxed yet chic look featuring a vintage polo shirt and tailored shorts.

* Emma Chamberlain: Known for her effortless style, Chamberlain showcased a minimalist outfit with a focus on accessories.

These celebrity sightings generate significant buzz on social media, inspiring fans to recreate similar looks. Influencers are also playing a key role, partnering with brands to showcase their latest collections and provide style inspiration.

Practical Considerations: Staying Stylish and Comfortable

While fashion is a priority, it’s important to remember the Australian Open takes place during the height of summer. Here are some practical tips for staying stylish and comfortable:

* Fabric Choice: Opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk.

* Sun protection: Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

* Footwear: Comfortable sneakers or sandals are essential for navigating the grounds.

* Layering: Bring a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.

* Hydration: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle.

The Future of Courtside fashion

The trend of dressing up at the Australian Open shows no signs of slowing down. As the event continues to attract a more fashion-conscious audience,we can expect to see even more creativity and innovation in the stands.The lines between sport and fashion are blurring, and the Australian Open is at the forefront of this exciting evolution. The focus will likely shift towards sustainable fashion choices and personalized styling, reflecting a growing awareness of both environmental and individual expression.