Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon.

Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon.

      This weekend, it was clear that London had just one focus: making the trek to SW19 for the annual Wimbledon tennis tournament. Hosted at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, this Grand Slam has evolved into much more than a sports event in recent years. With attire from Ralph Lauren and the growth of viral ‘GRWM’ clips from the WAGs, the championship has transformed into a cultural phenomenon that showcases the ultimate in spectator fashion. The saying goes that fortune favours the bold, and it seems that fashion does too, particularly for those lucky enough to secure tickets to Centre Court. Nonetheless, the exclusivity and tradition surrounding the event haven’t prevented several key summer trends from emerging in the stands. Thus, it was surprising to see some of the most prominent attendees arriving in one of the season’s more divisive footwear options—white flat shoes.

      Often referred to as derbys, brogues, or jazz shoes, these white, flat, lace-up styles, with a sporty origin and gentlemanly silhouette, have quickly become one of this summer's most sought-after looks. They first debuted in Michael Ryder’s inaugural collection as creative director for Celine and have since been spotted on the feet of some well-dressed individuals, including Gracie Abrams, Tracee Ellis Ross, Charlize Theron, and Harry Styles. Now, they have officially made their way to Henman Hill, worn by figures like Simone Ashley and Claudia Winkleman.

      Our interest was initially sparked when The Devil Wears Prada 2 star arrived in a sharp all-white outfit. Complementing her tailored Bermuda shorts and structured white overshirt, she completed the look with a pair of leather and mesh brogues. Later, The Traitors host swapped her usual dark and moody outfit of a black turtleneck and patent leggings for another all-white ensemble, pairing monk shoes with a cream blazer and matching wide-leg trousers.

      Given that fashion references have become a staple of public appearances, it is no surprise that Wimbledon serves as a platform for the industry's most influential to display their sartorial knowledge (see: Maura Higgins adorned in stilettos with tennis balls earlier in the week). Both Winkleman and Ashley have paid tribute to the wardrobes of male tennis players from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We are certainly not immune to drawing inspiration from athletes’ wardrobes either. Just look at how desirable Coco Gauff’s custom Miu Miu x New Balance ensemble and Aryna Sabalenka’s exquisite Audemars Piguet watches are. Still, one wouldn’t expect us to take inspiration from this vintage athletic shoe trend. As more designers endorse this style daily—Proenza Schouler! Reformation! The Row!—one could argue that investing in this trend is a definite winner. Ahead, shop the jazz shoe trend that will elevate your summer sporting experience.

      Shop the White Flat Shoe Trend:

      PROENZA SCHOULER

      Glove Leather Brogues

      Glove-like fit with a sleek finish. A high-street essential that pairs exceptionally well with modern tailoring.

      ZARA

      Leather Lace-Up Flat Shoes

      A more budget-friendly version of the trend that remains stylish.

      CELINE

      Ballet Lace-Up Shoe in Lambskin

      Reasonably priced for those wanting to try the trend without splurging on a designer option. A must-have for a French girl wardrobe.

      LEMAIRE

      Souris Leather Derby Shoes

Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon. Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon.

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Neither sandals nor heels—this controversial shoe trend was worn by all the stylish attendees at Wimbledon.

The latest tennis footwear.