Shopping
Where function and style meet.
Though tennis is a heritage sport, with decades of tradition behind it, new interest has piqued in recent years — primarily from the fashion community.
From Wimbledon’s best-dressed celebrities (read: Ariana Grande) to the buzzy tenniscore aesthetic, sports-inspired outfits are trending on the courts and on the apps. The super preppy style has certainly helping to grow the amount of people toting rackets in their spare time — myself being a prime example. (I learned partially to find a new hobby and partially, because I liked the cute outfits.)
Whether you’re into tennis for the health benefits — its great for increasing your focus, strength, and agility — or are more about the pleated skirts that come with it, I’ve got you covered. Though my love of fashion will forever come first, I took style to the court and tested out some of the trendiest athletic and athleisure (heavy emphasis on the ‘leisure’) brands on the market.
To see what wears best under the sweltering summer sun, I shopped items with details like sweat-wicking material, built-in support, and lightweight fabrication. From playful tennis dresses to cool-girl tracksuits, these looks serve. Ahead, shop tennis gear that gets in A+ in both aesthetics and performance.
Tennis Whites
While I avoid wearing white to play any sport, I’m happy to make an exception for this set. The Alo Yoga tank (that I’ll be wearing to the office, as well) and matching skirt are incredibly soft and moisture-wick with the best of them. Plus, the top has a mesh bra with removable pads built in for ultimate support.
It’s important to note, the skirt comes with a pair of shorts with pockets underneath — the perfect spot to hold a spare ball.
Lightweight Layering
With this year’s temperamental weather, a lightweight tennis jacket is a necessity. Paired with a longline sports bra and high-waisted tennis skirt, this comfortable ensemble is perfect for anything Mother Nature serves (and for serving it right back).
Sporty Colorblocking
Sporty & Rich is known for their retro sets — it’s also the exact vibe I was channeling with this look. The breathable track jacket and matching trousers make an easy outfit for brunch or a match.
I paired the colorful co-ord with a white Spanx bra that’s famous for keeping wearers super secure. This one is also incredibly sweat-proof — it’s perfect for long days in the sun, with UPF 50+ protection embedded in the fabric. I finished the look with a Kelly green duffel (which is waterproof and insulated) for a contrast of color. I love how it looks against the turquoise coloring of the tracksuit.
Pop of Color
This bright blue Athleta bra brings a pop color to one of my favorite pleated skirts (another Spanx creation). I love this mini, because the asymmetrical, pleated detail adds incredible movement to every serve.
The bra, on the other hand, has major compression and is made for high-intensity workouts, so it’s perfect for tennis conditioning. Made of recycled plastic bottles, it’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking.
Sporty Cut-Outs
This dress is perfect for going from work to workout. The ultra comfortable mini is created with supportive underpinnings, making it easy to wear without having to worry about any slips. Did I mention the back cut-outs? Utterly stunning.
Simple & Sleek
You can never go wrong with a Tory Sport tennis look. This dress, with its minimalist silhouette and athletic striping around the neckline, allows for an ultra clean look. The side slit offers more than a fashionable touch — it also allows for extended movement while you play.
Because these Fila shoes were created with breathability in mind, I felt absolutely no discomfort while playing in incredibly hot and humid weather.
The Classic Polo, Elevated
This body-skimming tennis dress is another piece created with environment in mind. It’s made in part with recycled materials and is super moisture-absorbent, without showing sweat stains (a very important feature).
Paired with Adizero Cybersonic Tennis Shoes, this look is understated, but so chic. The sneakers are lightweight with the right amount of traction and zero break-in time. Overall, they get a 10/10 from me.
Sheer Elements
Easily one of my favorites looks, this Brandon Maxwell x Fila tennis dress was certainly designed with movement in mind. The two-toned asymmetrical dress has multiple sheer inserts for added style, without compromising on support. The dress has sun protection (50+ UV) and is perfectly moisture-wicking. The dual toned dress makes playing tennis even more fun.
Layered Skirting
Nike’s Dri-FIT technology (which is created with recycled materials) was made to keep you dry during your entire set. The ultra light mesh top and skirt, which are both made from Dri-FIT, can withstand even the most humid and sweltering weather without showing even a drop of sweat. Underneath, I wore the Indy bra and didn’t have to adjust it once while playing multiple sets.
Polished Perforations
Lightweight tennis dresses are meant to keep you cool on the most stifling days. This white-bright Wilson dress certainly fits the bill, with an important added element: style. Be sure to pair it with some ball shorts and a sports bra for additional support during your next match.
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