Service, Style, and Sweat: Your Guide to Dressing for the US Open

New York’s summer of sport isn’t over yet. After the Knicks’ championship run and the World Cup final at MetLife, the city turns its attention to Queens, where the US Open returns to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center from August 24 to September 13. For nearly five decades, this tournament has been the late-summer place to watch elite tennis while dodging the heat, sipping Honey Deuce cocktails, and—let’s be honest—people-watching. Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen have been known to pop up, and the energy inside Arthur Ashe Stadium is electric. If you’ve got tickets, you’re in for a treat.

Dressing for the Open requires some strategy. The unofficial dress code leans toward elevated athleisure: think pleated skirts, workout dresses, and sweat-wicking tops from brands like Lululemon or Wilson. But the real challenge is the weather. August in New York can hit the 90s with brutal humidity, so breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are your best friend. Flowy summer dresses are a smart choice—they let air circulate, keep your legs off hot seats, and look effortlessly chic. Come evening, temperatures drop, so pack a lightweight layer like a cashmere cardigan or a windbreaker you can tie around your waist.

Footwear matters more than you’d think. You’ll walk miles from the subway or ride-share drop-off to your seat, so leave the kitten heels at home. Stick with comfortable sneakers or supportive sandals. And don’t forget the accessories: a tennis-themed keychain or a simple coin purse adds a playful touch, but the real must-have is a stadium-approved bag (max 12x12x16 inches). Also bring a fan, sunglasses, and a misting water bottle—shade is scarce inside the stadiums. Tickets are still available on Ticketmaster and resale sites like Stubhub, but they sell out fast for big matches. Plan ahead, dress smart, and enjoy the show.