Pippa Middleton's crochet mini dress rewrites the Wimbledon dress code


Princess Kate's younger sister has been a Wimbledon regular for many years and always nails courtside glamour with major aplomb


© PA Images via Getty Images
Laura Sutcliffe
Laura SutcliffeFashion and Beauty News Editor
1 hour ago
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There's no doubt about it - Pippa Middleton is the undisputed queen of Wimbledon courtside dressing, having been a frequent visitor to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club for many years.

The Princess of Wales' younger sister has worn a plethora of fabulous outfits to the famous SW19 venue, and her chosen ensembles always stand the test of time, just like her royal sibling. However, there is one difference. 

A close up photo of Kate and Pippa Middleton at Wimbledon© Getty Images
Princess Kate and sister Pippa are big Wimbledon fans

Pippa has always dressed a little more risqué than her royal sibling, due to the fact that she doesn't need to follow a strict royal protocol like Kate.

Pippa Middleton wears a white and red polka dot midi dress with straw hat© WireImage
Pippa can afford to be a little more relaxed with her attire

A great example of this is the ensemble Pippa wore to Wimbledon back in 2011. The brunette beauty stepped out for a semi-final match, wearing a navy blue, crochet dress by Tania. 

The eye-catching dress featured subtle, mesh-like detail and showcased a close-fitting, body-conscious cut that skimmed her shape. 

Pippa wore this crochet dress to Wimbledon in 2011© AFP via Getty Images
Pippa wore this crochet dress to Wimbledon in 2011

The fit-and-flare design made for a flattering fit, and she carried a tanned, top-handled bag by Modalu (more on that in a moment). 

Pippa carried a bag, which was named after her, by Tania© Getty Images
Pippa carried a bag, which was named after her, by Tania

Although the frock was a little daring, it still appeared classic, with its navy blue colourway, crew neckline and simple, timeless cut, which could still be worn today and be very much in style. For spectators at Wimbledon, there's no formal dress code, but guests are encouraged to don smart attire, particularly for matches on Centre Court or No. 1 Court. 

Speaking of her love for Wimbledon, the mother-of-three told Vanity Fair in 2013: "I first went to Wimbledon when I was eight years old and already a very keen tennis player." Recalling the first time she went to the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, she further remarked: "During this first trip, I acted on my childish tennis dreams and bought myself a postcard of the women's championship trophy, on which I wrote, 'I will win this one day,' with my signature below." 

Pippa's viral bag moment

The wife of James Matthews was rarely without a Modalu bag in 2011. The now-defunct British brand actually named one of their bags after Kate's sister. 

Pippa Middleton wearing a denim dress in 2011© FilmMagic
Pippa had a bag named after her in 2011

Modalu gained major kudos after both Pippa and her mother, Carole, were seen with the trendy tote, which generated huge sales after Kate's sister was seen carrying it on her arm. The impact it created was so huge that the label went on to memorably call it the 'Pippa' in her honour, and later went on to produce the style in many more colours.

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