As a tournament founded in 1877, Wimbledon's brand has leaned heavily on the tradition of the tournament in modern times.
There was, however, a rare change to the rules around player dress code in 2022, changing part of conventions dating back to Victorian times.
The official rules of The Championships state players must wear "suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white" from the moment they enter the court area, although many players have attempted to circumvent these rules, leading the All England Club to take measures to close a number of loopholes over the years.
What are the regulations and how have they changed? Ahead of Wimbledon 2023, the Sporting News takes a look at the latest rules.
MORE: Wimbledon women's seedings: How they work, current tennis rankings, Wimbledon 2023 points
What is the dress code for players at Wimbledon?
The almost-all-white rule was founded when sweating was considered improper, with the colour introduced to hide perspiration as much as possible.
There can be some slight deviation from white for a player's clothes or accessories, though. Non-white trim is allowed, but it must be on the neckline of the shirt, sleeve cuff or outside seam of shorts, skirt or shorts leg.
This trim must also only be no more than a centimetre wide. Small manufacturer logos and sponsors are permitted but mustn't measure over a centimetre wide as a mass of colour. On top of this, shades of off-white or cream are not allowed as a white substitute.
It is stated that "caps, headbands, bandanas, wristbands and socks" must follow the same rules, while shoes must also be predominantly white, with large manufacturer logos "not encouraged".
Undergarments that can be "visible during play" have to match with the rest of the white kit, too. The code also outlines that "common standards of decency are required at all times".
Even medical equipment and support bandages should not be coloured unless it's "absolutely necessary". There is, at least, a more relaxed dress code on the practice courts.
Controversial outfits and rule-bending
Andre Agassi famously refused to play at Wimbledon between 1988 and 1990 due to his opposition to the strict dress code.
The American favoured brightly coloured apparel at the time, but ended his boycott to win his first Wimbledon title in 1992.
Roger Federer also found himself in hot water in 2013 after wearing shoes with orange soles during the tournament. This prompted a clarification in the rules by Wimbledon, with Federer disgruntled at the changes. "I think it's very strict. My personal opinion: it's too strict," he said the following year.
Rafael Nadal pushed the boundaries in his first few years at the championships by adopting a sleeveless top, longer shorts and headband, although he adhered to the all-white stipulation. Indeed, Pat Cash was admonished much more in 1987 for sporting a black-and-white headband.
Serena Williams wore brightly coloured undershorts in 2010 and 2012. Williams has a track record of experimenting with her apparel at tournaments, wearing an all-black catsuit at the 2018 French Open and a tutu at the US Open in the same year.
Anne White caused similar consternation back in 1985 when she wore an all-in-one outfit at Wimbledon. It was white, so it was within the rules, but some questioned whether it was appropritate.
Wimbledon dress code for female players
In November 2022, Wimbledon announced it would allow women to wear dark undershorts following high-profile concerns being raised over how it affected female players during menstruation.
Judy Murray and Billie Jean King spoke out on the issue, and a campaign, Address the Dress Code, also called for change.
MORE: Why is Anett Kontaveit retiring after Wimbledon? 27-year-old set to retire due to back condition
“We are committed to supporting the players and listening to their feedback as to how they can perform at their best,” said Sally Bolton, the chief executive of the All England Club.
“I’m pleased to confirm that, following consultation with players and representatives of several stakeholder groups, the committee of management has taken the decision to update the white clothing rule at Wimbledon.
“This means that from next year, women and girls competing at the championships will have the option of wearing coloured undershorts if they choose.
"It is our hope that this rule adjustment will help players focus purely on their performance by relieving a potential source of anxiety.”
The rules now state that women can wear "solid, mid/dark-coloured undershorts provided they are no longer than their shorts or skirt."