Unlike many other sports, modern tennis was born within European social clubs in the 19th century. In those early clubs, the rules applied not only to the game but also to how people dressed. From the beginning, tennis developed its own aesthetic: white clothing, clean silhouettes and a natural elegance that set it apart from other sports.
It is no coincidence that tennis was one of the first sports whose uniform influenced everyday fashion.
That is why tennis tournaments have always had something special about them. They are not just about sport, they are also a social moment where style plays a role.
From Wimbledon to the US Open, tennis has long been one of the few sports where fashion is part of the experience. And while the Dominican Republic Open Copa Cap Cana ATP Challenger 175 does not have Wimbledon’s strict dress code, it offers something equally appealing: a tropical setting by the sea.
This changes the rules of dressing completely.
Here, the goal is not to dress formally, but to find the right balance between sporty, elegant, and fresh. The sun, the heat, and long hours outdoors are also part of the experience.
And while the international tennis calendar sits somewhere between late winter and early spring, in the Caribbean the weather writes its own rules.
Here are a few ideas on what to wear if you are attending a tennis tournament in Cap Cana.
Tennis dresses (the classic that never fails)
The tennis dress is probably the easiest –and chicest– option for this type of event. It combines sporty and feminine elements and works perfectly in the Caribbean climate.
Styles that work especially well include polo-style dresses, pleated tennis dresses, and minimalist athletic silhouettes.
Pair your tennis dress with white sneakers, sunglasses, and a visor or cap.
The tropical preppy look
Tennis has always had a defined aesthetic: preppy, clean, and sporty. In Cap Cana, the idea is simply to adapt that style to the tropics.
Try combinations such as a lightweight cotton or linen shirt with shorts, a polo with a short skirt, or elegant bermuda shorts paired with a minimalist top.
Colors that work particularly well include white, pastel tones, navy blue –or any shade of blue– beige, and this season we are also seeing a lot of brown.
The result is a comfortable and fresh look with a relaxed country club vibe adapted to the Caribbean.
For him
For men, tennis style follows a clear formula: preppy, athletic, and relaxed.
The classic polo shirt remains the centerpiece of the look. It pairs perfectly with well-cut shorts or linen or cotton bermudas, creating the ideal balance between elegance and comfort.
Lightweight shirts, especially linen ones, also work very well in a tropical setting like Cap Cana. Worn slightly open or with the sleeves rolled up, they create that effortless look that always works in coastal destinations.
When it comes to color, neutrals remain the safest choice: white, navy blue, beige, sand, or olive green. However, polos in earthy tones and shades of brown are also appearing more frequently this season, adding a more modern touch.
The key is a clean, relaxed look that feels stylish without appearing overdone.
Accessories that elevate the look
At an outdoor tennis tournament, accessories are not optional, they are essential. Panama hats, visors, or caps will protect you from the sun while also completing the classic tennis aesthetic. Sunglasses add a relaxed sense of glamour that has always been part of tennis culture.
For women, lightweight bags such as canvas totes or raffia bags are ideal for carrying water, sunscreen, or even a hand fan.
Beyond style, these accessories will help you stay comfortable for several hours under the Caribbean sun.
The right shoes
You will likely walk between courts and tournament areas, so comfortable shoes are important. Classic sneakers or your favorite athletic shoes are always a good choice. For the ladies, flat sandals, kitten heels, or elegant ballerina flats can also work well. And the tropical favorite for both men and women: espadrilles.
The idea is to look elegant while keeping the overall look relaxed.
Where to shop for a tennis tournament in Cap Cana
If you attend the tournament and realize your wardrobe could use a tennis-chic upgrade, Cap Cana offers several boutiques where you can find pieces that fit the setting perfectly.
In areas such as Fishing Lodge, La Marina, Green Village Plaza, or even within hotels like Eden Roc and St. Regis, as well as the shops at Las Iguanas and Punta Espada, you will find resort boutiques offering lightweight dresses, polos, tailored shorts and accessories ideal for outdoor events.
At Fishing Lodge you will find Blasser, with linen and cotton options for both men and women. You can also find hats there. A brand specializing in handcrafted hats is Metier Hats, which shares space with Patio Latino, a Latin multi-brand boutique.
Just across the way is the boutique of designer Luciana Quiroga, whose pieces are designed for women who want to look elegant and fresh.
If you prefer a more athletic aesthetic, Golf Style is a reliable stop. As they say themselves, they offer not only golf apparel but also pieces suited for the coastal lifestyle.
At La Marina you will find one of the oldest shops in Cap Cana –and also one of the most beloved by locals– Sole D’ Il Prato. The boutique offers a highly curated selection including well-known brands such as LoveShackFancy.
Patio Latino, Blasser, Sole D’Il Prato and Luciana Quiroga
In Green Village you will find Ututuy, a women’s concept store that even includes options for younger girls.
In the end, attending a tennis tournament has always been a mix of sport, style and social life.
Perhaps that is why tennis remains one of the few sports where the audience also becomes part of the scene: the stands, conversations between sets, visors or hats white dresses and impeccable polos.
And in a place like Cap Cana –with the sea just steps away from the courts– dressing for the moment is not just about fashion.
It is simply part of the tennis lifestyle.
Photos: External sources
