Wimbledon’s 125th Anniversary
20-06-2011
About
This year Wimbledon celebrates its 125th anniversary. Famous for its rackets, sweat bands, evian water and the unpredictable rain, Wimbledon will forever have a place in the hearts of the British people. The first tournament took place in 1877, with only one event being the men’s singles, which was won by Spencer Gore. About 200 spectators paid to watch the game, and as the times changed the sport itself very much stays the same.
Polo Ralph Lauren At Wimbledon
Although known for its tennis, Wimbledon has become a hotspot for designer clothing. Having had Polo Ralph Lauren as the first ever designer to sponsor Wimbledon, it is only natural that it became the official outfitter in 2006. Ian Richie (Chief executive of All England Club, Wimbledon) was asked about the relationship between Wimbledon and Polo Ralph Lauren, and he replied by saying
“We are delighted that Polo Ralph Lauren is celebrating our 125th Anniversary with a newly designed ball boy and ball girl shirt, there is such affinity between the two iconic brands – the pursuit of excellence, the rich history and timeless elegance – and we look forward to maintaining and enhancing our partnership in 2011 and beyond.”
A New Designer Creation At Wimbledon
Keeping her promise Bethanie Mattek Sands, delivered the tennis inspired dress we had all been waiting for since last month’s announcement. Having co-operated with Lady Gaga’s designer Alex Noble, the result was Nether-The-Less as spectacular as we all assumed it would be. It was shown at Thursday (16.06.11) evening’s Pre-Wimbledon Party. And just like the fashion experimentalist hinted, the dress is made of tennis balls.
Previous Fashion At Wimbledon
During the jazz age of 1924, a certain Suzanne Lenglen found herself in a lot of trouble, when revealing a few inches of leg and forearms caused a stir. Saying congratulations to the winner of Wimbledon, and six French opens, would have been shunned. Wearing Jean-Patou designed white outfits, and accessorising her bob by using a white scarf as a signature look, she certainly set the stage for fashion at Wimbledon.
In 1985, Anne White shocked the nation by removing a tracksuit to reveal an all white lycra.Later Anne White was quoted as saying, “I had no idea it would be so controversial.” The umpire then banned her from wearing the bodysuit at her next match. Saying it was unconventional attire. At the time it was described in the media as provocative. I know it was the 80s, but describing it as being provocative… come on surely everyone noticed how hideous it was. It should have been banned for that alone!
Tatiana Golovin turned on the heat, on what was a Grey afternoon in 2007. Sporting red knickers underneath her dress, she risked a breach of the All England Club’s strict “predominantly white” rules. If only they had thought of this in 1985, then Anne White would have really had some competition. “They say that red is the colour that proves you are strong, and that you are confident, so I’m happy with my knickers,” said Golovin
Finally last year, Serena Williams took to the court in a white frilly number, said to have been inspired by Tina Turner. Serena stated, “I love Tina Turner. Obviously, she’s just an amazing, amazing artist, just a survivor,” Whereas the previous day in the Australian opens her sister had played in a yellow dress, with slits at each side and flesh coloured pants. Referring to the uproar over the flesh coloured pants Venus wore, and her own outfit at Wimbledon Serena said “There’s no illusion this time. Here it’s all about white. I just think it’s a fun, elegant dress.”
