Unraveling the Mystery: Who Wore Frilly Knickers at Wimbledon?
The iconic green lawns of Wimbledon are steeped in tradition, from the strict dress code to the strawberries and cream. But beyond the pristine white attire, there's a subtler, often forgotten, aspect of tennis fashion: the undergarments. The question, "Who wore frilly knickers at Wimbledon?" might conjure images of a bygone era, a time when fashion was more flamboyant, even beneath the strict rules of the sport. Let's dive into the history and explore the reality of undergarments at the All England Club.The Evolution of Tennis Attire and Underwear
For much of Wimbledon's early history, the prevailing fashion for women was considerably more modest than what we see today. Think long skirts, high necklines, and layers upon layers of clothing. Underneath these ensembles, women would have worn undergarments that reflected the fashion of the time.The Victorian and Edwardian Eras
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women's undergarments were typically comprised of multiple layers:- Chemise: A loose-fitting, often linen or cotton slip that was worn directly against the skin.
- Drawers (or Pantaloons): These were essentially loose-fitting trousers that reached to the knee or ankle. While not "frilly" in the modern sense of lace or ruffles, they could have had some decorative elements like simple gathering or ribbon ties.
- Corset: Essential for achieving the fashionable silhouette of the era, corsets were often made of boning and sturdy fabric, designed to cinch the waist.
- Under-skirt or Petticoat: Multiple layers of petticoats were common to give fullness to the outer skirts.
The Mid-20th Century Shift
As tennis fashion evolved, so too did undergarments. The 1920s saw a move towards shorter skirts and a more boyish silhouette, and undergarments became simpler. The 1940s and 1950s brought about the era of the bloomers, which were looser, calf-length undergarments often worn for sports and everyday wear. While some bloomers might have had decorative elasticated cuffs, they were generally more utilitarian than frilly.The "Frilly Knickers" Connection: More Legend Than Fact?
The idea of players intentionally wearing overtly "frilly knickers" at Wimbledon, especially in a way that would be visible or a significant fashion statement, is largely anecdotal and may be more rooted in popular imagination than documented fact.Wimbledon's dress code has always been notoriously strict, emphasizing pristine white. This extends to undergarments, which are expected to be non-obtrusive and, if visible, to also adhere to the white rule.
Susie Barrie and the "Cheeky" Undies
One of the most frequently cited instances of players wearing something noteworthy in their undergarments at Wimbledon involves the British player Susie Barrie. In the 1970s, there were reports that she wore bright pink, lacy knickers beneath her white tennis skirt. This was considered quite scandalous at the time, as it was a departure from the expected all-white underwear. However, the "frilly" aspect might be a conflation with "lacy" or "colored" – the key was the deviation from the norm and the subtle hint of something beyond plain white.The Modern Era and Player Choice
In the modern era, while players still adhere to the white clothing rule, the actual underwear worn is a matter of personal choice, provided it remains largely unseen and white. Many players today wear specialized athletic underwear designed for comfort and performance. These are typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics and are designed to be seamless or to minimize chafing.While "frilly knickers" in a historical context might refer to decorative drawers from earlier eras, the more recent association with Wimbledon often points to a more subtle act of defiance or personal expression through colored or lacy underwear. The focus has always been on maintaining the pristine white aesthetic of the sport, with any deviation being a minor, often whispered, fashion statement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did undergarments change with tennis fashion at Wimbledon?
Undergarments evolved from multiple layers of modest garments like chemises and drawers in the Victorian era to simpler bloomers in the mid-20th century, and now to performance-oriented athletic underwear. The trend has been towards greater comfort and less bulk.
Why was wearing colored or "frilly" knickers considered controversial at Wimbledon?
Wimbledon has a strict tradition of all-white attire. Any deviation, even in underwear, was seen as a breach of etiquette and a challenge to the established formality of the tournament. It was about maintaining a certain image and decorum.
Were "frilly knickers" a common trend among female tennis players at Wimbledon historically?
The term "frilly knickers" is likely an exaggeration for most of Wimbledon's history. While decorative elements might have been present on drawers from earlier periods, overtly "frilly" underwear wasn't a widespread trend. The more recent controversy involved colored or lacy, rather than traditionally "frilly," undergarments.
What kind of underwear do professional tennis players wear at Wimbledon today?
Today, professional tennis players wear specialized athletic underwear made from performance fabrics like polyester and spandex. These are designed to be moisture-wicking, breathable, and to prevent chafing. They are typically seamless and, as per the dress code, are expected to be white.
