Hermes Dossier
Courtside Couture: The US Open Becomes the Ultimate Celebrity Runway
From Anna Wintour’s stoic presence to Kaia Gerber’s effortless chic, the 2026 US Open is proving that the real competition is happening in the stands.
Industry Icons
The Wintour Chill at Arthur Ashe
Anna Wintour, the undisputed matriarch of fashion, was spotted at the US Open looking notably somber this week. Her appearance comes amidst swirling rumors regarding the Met Gala and her long-standing professional relationship with designer John Galliano. While the tennis matches were high-intensity, the focus often shifted to Wintour’s signature sunglasses and stoic expression, which many interpreted as a reflection of the recent industry tensions reported in fashion circles. Despite the heavy atmosphere, her presence remains the ultimate seal of approval for the tournament's status as a premier cultural event. Whether she was truly downcast or simply focused on the set, the editor-in-chief’s every move continues to dictate the narrative of the season’s most exclusive guest lists and the power dynamics of the front row.
Courtside Style
The New Guard of Tennis Chic
While Wintour provided the gravitas, a new generation of style icons brought a fresh energy to the stands. Kaia Gerber led the charge, embodying the effortlessly cool NYC aesthetic that has become synonymous with the late-summer tournament. Clad in understated yet impeccably tailored pieces, Gerber was joined by the likes of Brandy, who showcased a sophisticated take on athletic-adjacent luxury. The US Open has successfully transitioned from a sporting event to a high-fashion showcase, rivaling the front rows of Milan and Paris. This year, the trend leans toward quiet luxury with a sporty twist—think crisp linens, designer sneakers, and vintage-inspired silhouettes that look as good in a VIP suite as they do on a Manhattan sidewalk during the height of the social season.
Cultural Calendar
From Venice to New York
The US Open’s sartorial dominance is part of a larger global moment in celebrity culture. As the Venice Film Festival wraps up its own parade of red-carpet glamour, the focus has shifted to the more relaxed, yet equally scrutinized, off-duty looks seen in New York. This transition marks the beginning of the fall fashion cycle, where the best-dressed lists are populated by those who can navigate the bridge between summer leisure and autumnal sophistication. The synergy between these events—Venice’s high-octane gowns and the US Open’s polished daywear—defines the current luxury landscape. For the modern icon, the goal is clear: maintain a consistent aesthetic of refinement, whether boarding a water taxi in Italy or cheering from a private box in Queens, ensuring every public appearance is a curated statement.
