In partnership with Ralph Lauren
There are a few things that are synonymous with the sport of tennis. Unmatched, electric energy – the type that leaves you breathless one minute and cheering the next. The warmth of the summer sun, following you around the arena until the day bleeds into night. And of course, strawberries and cream. But if there's one thing that has always defined tennis since its inception, it undoubtedly has to be style. Seamlessly represented both on and off the court, it's easy to understand how the 'tennis aesthetic' has continuously influenced street style over the years. Timeless tailoring and silhouettes and classic colours paired with just the right amount of elevation has made the sport a trend-setting, eye-catching event the world over. And if you happened to find yourself tuning into the Australian Open over the weekend, you would have noticed that all the most stylish spectators had one thing in common...
On Friday afternoon, a select group of RUSSH Purists and creative minds were spotted at Rod Laver Arena, heading over to find their seats for the match between Novak and Etcheverry – an electric three-sets of tennis that was just as striking as the attendees' outfits. Donning uniquely curated and styled Polo Ralph Lauren pieces in honour of the heritage brand's positioning as the official outfitter of the Australian Open, models, artists, actors, musicians and thought leaders took spectator street style to Grand Slam heights.
The evening begun at the Polo Ralph Lauren On-Site Hospitality Suite, where guests including Billie Jean Hamlet, Madeleine Madden, Mikka Byarugaba and Cameron Stephens enjoyed flowing drinks and a three-course dinner, all bringing their own personality and styling to iconic Polo Ralph Lauren pieces. The unseasonably cool (and notoriously unpredictable) Melbourne weather saw guests experiment with layering; favouring the casual but refined tailoring the brand has always been known for.
The brand's iconic Teddy Bear knit was a spectator favourite, draped over the shoulders or styled with a pair of Polo Ralph Lauren patchwork jeans and a signature, washed-out navy blue cap for that street style edge. The RL 888 handbag and Polo ID Bag – regarded as two of the most-loved handbags of the season – were also seen on heavy rotation. The perfect size and companion for an evening out at the tennis.
It's no surprise the RUSSH and Polo Ralph Lauren's guests were amongst the best-dressed attendees of the night. After all, the brand has been defining off-court style for the last two decades, encouraging lovers of the sport to dress up for the occasion, extending to those attending, playing and watching tennis. For its fourth consecutive year as the official outfitter of the tournament, the 2024 Australian Open Capsule Collection continued this spirit, infusing the bold and vibrant spirit of Australian summer to create an offering that unites tennis and fashion.
Whether your interpretation of tennis style is a pinstripe, classic navy suit like Mikka, or you prefer the effortlessness of a lightweight shirt dress like Tamsin Johnson, Polo Ralph Lauren is leading spectator style at the Australian Open. You can explore the pieces now, online at the Ralph Lauren website, Ralph Lauren boutiques and at the retail pop-up at Rod Laver Arena during Australian Open.
