Dress like you’re playing to win!
With Wimbledon wrapped up and the fashion set’s love of tennis well and truly established, there’s one trend that’s winning the summer. Tenniscore. Not just another niche aesthetic that’s gone viral on TikTok. This season, tenniscore is proving its widespread and lasting appeal in the eyes of fashion insiders.
While tenniscore looks first garnered attention back in 2022, it was Zendaya’s Challengers movie all about tennis grand slam champions and her subsequent press tour looks back in spring that propelled this sporty style to the Majors (yes, another tennis pun). Outfits included a crisp white Alaïa hooded polo dress and custom Loewe point-toe shoes complete with tennis balls for heels, so there was a lot to love. And it seems that while we all collectively gaped at these looks, fashion brands were gearing up to release their take on this sought-after sporty aesthetic.
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IMAGE CREDIT - Getty Images, accessed via vogue.co.uk
Miu Miu’s drawstring waists, Mango’s striped tees and Gucci’s new Tennis Collection. Some of my favourite labels from high-street brands to luxury fashion houses are embracing the tenniscore aesthetic. And now, thanks to the star-studded and fashionable turnout at this year’s Wimbledon, its popularity is cemented.
From preppy polo dresses with cutouts to traditional Wimbledon Whites, let’s break down how to master the trend. Game, set, match – your serve!
The Tennis Skirt
Preppy, sporty and comfortable, the humble tennis skirt has long been a staple of stylish looks on the court. But now, its appeal off the court is being recognised, too. Adding a practical, pared-back feel to outfits, tennis skirts are an easy win for summer. Classic interpretations favour pleated and mini versions, with the super-practical skort variation leaning more into coveted athleisure fashion.
But the DNA of the tenniscore look is ever changing. Now, details like thick elasticated waistbands, drawstring ties and crisp cotton fabric all give styles a tenniscore-inspired edge. Want to make your tennis skirt a little less athletic and a little more elevated – try a midi A-line shape. Crochet styles offer a fresh summery approach to the trend, with a striped hem to add a sporty touch.
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The Tennis dress
The tennis dress is perhaps my most favourite piece of sporty-inspired clothing. An easy one-piece that you can really move around in. Tennis-esque styles typically come in the form of a scoop-neck mini with pleats on the skirt for a simple, preppy approach that makes a fun athleisure style. With a baseball cap, trainers and a jumper tied loosely around your shoulders en route to grab a matcha.
But if you want to elevate your tennis dress a little while nodding to heritage sporty influences, try a polo dress complete with buttons or zips and contrast stripes. This works great if it’s a little boxy – super relaxed and versatile, with slingbacks and an oversized tote or trainers and a compact shoulder bag. A dropped waist ups the elegance, too. (Read: Low Waist Dresses We All Love)
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The Tennis Top & Jumper
Tennis-style tops and jumpers are some of the easiest pieces to incorporate a little tenniscore into your outfits. Think strappy scoop necks and knitted polo tops (my favourites are from Miu Miu, Read: Miu Miu Hottest Pieces & Outfits). Plus, oversized cable V-neck jumpers with statement striped trims, simple tanks (cropped and knitted), and graphic tees (baby or oversized).
I love dressing up slim-fit sleeveless polo tops with tailored wide-leg trousers and baggy V-neck jumpers with maxi skirts (taking my style cues from Zendaya, of course).
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IMAGE CREDIT - Jean Catuffe / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images, accessed via wmagazine.com
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Wimbledon Whites
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While the Wimbledon Championships tennis tournament has always been an elegant affair, in recent years, it’s become quite the global fashion event. Designer-clad A-listers seem to get as much attention as the matches, with attendees’ outfits all about championing elegance and flair. The head-to-toe white looks were easily my favourites this year. From gorgeous tailoring, knitted waistcoats, voluminous midi silhouettes and shirt dresses, to wicker top-handle bags and point-toe heels.
Great for the season’s soirées (complete with Wimbledon-style refreshments like strawberries and cream), crisp, clean all-white looks make for simple summer style. And for a twist, opt for pieces with subtle pinstripes and contrast black polka dots.
Tennis Ball Green
On what seems like the opposite end of the colour spectrum – tennis ball green. Softer than neon green and with a subtle, yet undeniable, sporty appeal, this shade can inject some colour into your tenniscore looks.
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IMAGE CREDIT - Eric Charbonneau / Getty Images, accessed via cosmopolitan.com
IMAGE CREDIT - Jason Howard / Bauer-Griffin / GC Images / Getty Images, accessed via wmagazine.com
What are your thoughts on the tenniscore phenomenon? Which looks are you most excited to try? Shop more styles from my Tenniscore Edit below.
xoxo, Tamara