Forget tennis whites. At this year's US Open, Kaia Gerber turned up in a little black dress and peep-toe pumps, carrying a tiger-print Fendi Baguette worth close to $4000, and set the tone for the entire tournament in one look. Unlike Wimbledon, where pleated skirts and sweater vests still reign, Flushing Meadows in 2026 embraces a different style that's a mix of tennis-core and celebrity flair.
New York's humid late-summer weather, combined with the long walk between Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong stadiums, helps explain why practicality is as important as spectacle this year. High-end brands like Fendi and Gucci are being paired with more affordable options, such as £70 Adidas and Nike, often worn by the same people.
This year at Flushing Meadows, there isn't just one dominant style; instead, a wide variety of looks ranges from luxury archive pieces to full tracksuits.
Archival Luxury Bags
The trend of archival accessories is at the forefront of the event. A truly collectible bag now plays a more significant role than the outfit it accompanies.
For instance, Kaia Gerber's tiger-print Fendi Re-Edition Baguette, which she wore just days before the official event turned her handbag into the focal point rather than just an afterthought.
For those looking to achieve a similar look without the hefty price tag, a printed vintage-style shoulder bag from the high street is a great alternative.
Archive prints are among the smartest fall purchases of the season.
Bright Windbreakers
Sportswear brands have muscled in too, turning bold, practical outerwear into a genuine style statement rather than something to throw on against the wind.
Serena Williams spent Fan Week in a bubblegum pink Nike windbreaker, priced at a modest $75, a shade she had already trialled at a pre-tournament pickleball event.
Anna Wintour and Serena Williams chat during "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns To New York" US Open exhibition match at Arthur Ashe 🎾 📸: REUTERS, BACKGRID pic.twitter.com/9j0WSesV6t
— Page Six (@PageSix) August 26, 2026
The colour is fast becoming a fixture of the wider street style scene, and one affordable piece can carry a whole look. Copy it for a festival, a rainy match day, or anywhere else that calls for practical colour.
Chunky Loafers and Socks
Footwear matters as much as anything on top, since it has to survive hours of walking the grounds.
Brandy paired croc-embossed Versace loafers with chunky socks, an unconventional combination already championed by Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz and Olivia Rodrigo, and finished off her '90s-inspired skirt set and headscarf with genuine practicality.
The styling has evolved from a divisive trick to a spectator-sport uniform. A similar high-street loafer can achieve this look for a fraction of the price.
Tracksuits and Athleisure
Full sportswear sets are showing up with the same confidence as eveningwear. Tate McRae made her US Open debut in an Adidas cardigan and micro shorts, finished with Stan Smith trainers and a four-figure Gucci bag.
Tate McRae attends the Opening Night and USTA Foundation Gala at the 2026 US Open. pic.twitter.com/tzx2xDTmhC
— 21 (@21metgala) August 31, 2026
Newcomer Inde Navarrette took it a step further by wearing a complete Adidas tracksuit. Both outfits highlight the tournament's main principle: affordable sportswear complemented by one standout luxury item.
Readers looking to achieve this celebrity courtside style only need to invest in a single elevated accessory, rather than overhauling their entire outfit.
The 2026 US Open runs through 13 September, and the high-low formula shows no sign of easing off. Expect the boldest statements yet once finals weekend arrives.
