What to Pack for the US Open: Your Ultimate Tennis Style Guide
Everything you need for a full day at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, from first serve to sunset.
There's something special about late August in New York.
The city hums a little louder. The evenings get just a little cooler. And tennis fans from around the world gather in Queens for two weeks that perfectly blend world-class sport with effortless style.
The US Open isn't just about tennis, it's a fashion moment. Think polished, relaxed, and ready for anything from a morning match on the outer courts to a night session under the lights in Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Here's exactly what we'd pack.
1. A Lightweight Cardigan
Every seasoned US Open attendee knows one thing:
By the evening session, you'll be glad you brought an extra layer.
A lightweight cardigan is the perfect piece to throw over your shoulders once the sun sets without sacrificing style.
Our Pick: The Match Cardigan from our Sports Edit.
It feels right at home courtside while still being polished enough for dinner in Manhattan afterward.
2. Comfortable White Sneakers
You'll walk more than you expect.
Between the Grandstand, Louis Armstrong Stadium, Arthur Ashe, the practice courts, and dozens of food vendors, it's easy to log 15,000–20,000 steps.
Skip uncomfortable shoes.
Instead, pack classic leather sneakers that look just as good with linen trousers as they do with a tennis skirt.
3. A Dad Cap
The New York sun can be intense during the day.
A classic cap adds effortless style while keeping the sun out of your eyes.
Our favorite?
The 40–15 Dad Cap or the Market Open Dad Cap for an elevated sport-meets-city aesthetic.
4. Sunglasses You'll Wear All Day
Choose a timeless pair rather than something overly trendy.
Think:
- Black acetate frames
- Gold aviators
- Tortoise shell
- Slim oval silhouettes
You'll be wearing them almost every match.
5. A Crossbody or Tote
Security lines move faster when you're organized.
Bring a bag large enough for:
- Sunscreen
- Portable charger
- Water bottle
- Cardigan
- Wallet
- Lip balm
- Hand sanitizer
A structured canvas tote works beautifully while keeping everything accessible.
6. Portable Phone Charger
Between taking photos, checking match schedules, ordering food, and navigating New York, your battery disappears quickly.
A slim portable charger is one of the smartest things you can pack.
7. Sunscreen
Even if you're sitting under partial shade, hours outside add up.
A travel-sized sunscreen is easy to keep in your bag and worth reapplying throughout the day.
Future you will be grateful.
8. A Reusable Water Bottle
The US Open can get hot.
Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing an empty reusable bottle to fill at water stations around the grounds.
It's practical, sustainable, and saves money.
9. Elevated Basics
Your outfit should feel effortless.
Our favorite combinations:
Look One
- White linen trousers
- The Match Cardigan
- White tank
- Leather sneakers
- Market Open Dad Cap
Look Two
- White tennis skirt
- Navy sweater over shoulders
- Gold jewelry
- Canvas tote
- Sunglasses
Look Three
- Relaxed denim
- Crisp white button-down
- The Match Cardigan
- Loafers
- Structured tote
10. A Camera Roll Ready Attitude
Some of the best moments aren't on center court.
They're the quiet ones.
Morning practice sessions.
Watching players warm up.
Sharing cocktails between matches.
Golden hour outside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Dress for the memories you'll want to keep.
What Not to Bring
Leave these at home:
- Heavy jackets
- High heels
- Oversized bags
- Umbrellas (check current tournament policies before attending)
- Anything you don't want to carry all day
Simple is always better.
The Set & Standard Packing List
✔ The Match Cardigan
✔ Market Open Dad Cap
✔ Canvas Tote
✔ White Sneakers
✔ Sunglasses
✔ Portable Charger
✔ Water Bottle
✔ Sunscreen
✔ Lip Balm
✔ Phone (for all the courtside photos)
See You in Queens
The US Open captures everything we love about late summer in New York: sport, style, energy, and timeless classics.
Whether you're spending the entire day exploring the grounds or arriving just in time for the night session, packing thoughtfully means you can focus on what matters most: enjoying every point.
We'll see you courtside.