2021.3.2

NEXT Ladieswear

1993

Mary Lou Tierney optionally purchased a deep green cardigan, also known as a jumper, to keep warm during Wimbledon matches. This garment was not part of the official umpire uniform, therefore it was layered with the traditional green blazer while on court. The design is highly functional and includes a classic embroidered Wimbledon Champions patch with two tennis rackets and a tennis ball in the center using purple, gold and white thread. Made by Next Ladieswear, this sweater is steeped in tradition and history. This company was founded in 1864 and continues as a British clothing, footwear, beauty, and home retailer. They are known across the UK, Asia, and the Middle East. Today cardigans worn at Wimbledon matches, are typically designed by Ralph Lauren. However, in 2008 tennis professional Roger Federer partnered with Nike to create a collection of clothing for Wimbledon, including a white and gold cardigan sweater.

This cardigan was one of several clothing items that could be optionally purchased by tennis umpires at Wimbledon in 1993. The other was an Anorak waterproof jacket, which was quite useful when paired with the sweater. Cardigans are a functional garment dating back to the 1800s, when this style was worn by the military. The original cardigan was a sleeveless vest, but in 1864 the sleeved version was created. Eventually, cardigans made their way into mainstream unisex fashion as the knitwear industry advanced and functional clothing expanded into the sports world. Throughout history many well-known people have worn cardigan style sweaters including Queen Elizabeth II, Mr. Rodgers, Kurt Cobain, and Taylor Swift.