To say that tennis outfits for women—referred to on TikTok as "tennis-core"—is a new fleeting aesthetic isn't exactly accurate. Classic and timeless are perhaps better descriptors of the preppy-leaning style that has been a fashion fixture since the late 1800s.
That said, silhouettes related to the sport do tend to spike during the summer months when the warm weather encourages people to get outside, book a spot on the courts, and slip into a fitted polo and a pleated mini-skirt. This summer will be no exception—jumpstarted by Zendaya's Challengers press tour outfits that had a very literal interpretation of courtside apparel: tennis ball Loewe heels, a Carolina Herrera gown as an homage to Venus and Serena Williams, and a Thom Browne tennis racket embroidered dress were all grand slams.
But even when the Challengers craze dies down, crisp tennis whites and breezy volley dresses are still great summer style options. Ahead, Marie Claire has curated a selection of tennis and tennis-inspired outfits from street style that work both on and off the court. Keep scrolling to find pairings you can sport this summer, the season following, and all those to come. Game, set, match.
She's ready for the match—just give her a few seconds to swap her kitten heels for trainers.
A zip-up track jacket teamed with a pleated tennis skirt is a classic combination. This outfit takes a step outside the box with its choice of footwear: This Fashion Week show-goer opted for white bobby socks and her best slingback heels, giving the outfit a more formal feel.
Again, another example of how heels instead of sneakers level-up a sporty look.
Not every tennis-inspired outfit needs a pleated mini skirt. Nylon parachute pants make for an equally sporty alternative. A polo shirt in tennis court green and an elevated piece of gold jewelry will add polish.
Pro tip: opt for an oversized sweater for a relaxed, just-stepped-off-the-court feel.
There's a reason a collegiate cable-knit sweater is a forever staple in fashion's Hall of Fame. Pair a V-neck pullover with a flirty mini skirt and a statement pair of chunky sneakers to lean into the style's sporty connotations.
The bright tennis ball green color of this Fashion Week guest's dress further ups the ante.
A sporty exercise dress teamed with sneakers is perhaps the most sport-ready outfit on this list. To take the combo off the court and onto the street, slip a colorful baguette bag over your shoulder.
In a clear repeat theme amongst the street style crowd, a pair of pumps contradict sporty separates with a very intriguing, put-together end look.
Argyle motifs are key to tennis-related fashions. Take a cue from this stylish Fashion Week attendee by styling a knit skirt in the graphic diamond print with a collared rugby top.
As an alternative styling idea, layer a varsity V-neck sweater with a collared shirt popped underneath. In contrast to the preppy vibe, add a denim maxi skirt and your best black boots.
For when you have tennis practice at 11:00 a.m. and lunch plans at 12:30 p.m.
A sporty zip-up styled with tailored bottoms is likely not an outfit you'd think would work—but, as seen here, it absolutely does.
An athletic windbreaker paired with trousers strikes a playful balance between sportswear and athleisurewear. Pointed-toe boots in black leather will polish off the pairing.
These Fashion Week guest played a game of doubles in coordinating tennis looks.
A lesson in tennis fashion wouldn't be complete without mentioning the age-old monochromatic styling of white on white. Pair a polo shirt and pleated midi skirt together to lean head-first into the tennis theme. Feel free to break it up with accessories in contrasting colors.
For an extra preppy element, knot your favorite cardigan across your torso. It's as-needed summer layer that offers style, too.
Here, an outfit that masterfully merges function with fashion. The polo shirt and tennis skirt combo work for practicing your backhand and a later meeting with friends for post-practice cocktails.
Whether you’re a spectator, player, or just someone intrigued by tennis style, a pleated mini skirt and collared rugby shirt is a pairing to keep in your back pocket.
A boxy rugby shirt in eye-catching stripes styled with a pleated tennis skirt is a straightforward combination with a chic sports slant. Your best loafers will ground the outfit with an added collegiate feel.
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