Start with a Pleated Skirt
The pleated mini skirt is the cornerstone of the tennis trend. Start with a classic white one. It’s surprisingly versatile and pairs with almost anything, making it the perfect entry point into the aesthetic.
Pair It with a Graphic Tee
For an effortlessly casual look, tuck a relaxed
graphic t-shirt into your tennis skirt. It immediately dresses down the preppy vibe and makes it perfect for a weekend brunch or running errands. Finish with simple white sneakers.
Try a Simple Polo Shirt
Lean into the preppy heritage with a classic polo shirt. Tucked into a skirt, it creates a clean, streamlined silhouette that’s inspired by the sport's history. You can opt for a classic fit or a modern, cropped style.
Go Monochromatic
Wearing one color from head to toe is an easy way to look instantly put-together. An all-white or all-navy outfit—like a white skirt with a white tank—looks incredibly chic and is a nod to Wimbledon's famous dress code.
Throw on an Oversized Sweatshirt
Combine cozy and sporty by pairing your skirt with an oversized sweatshirt. A vintage-inspired university or graphic crewneck adds a touch of retro cool, perfect for bridging the gap between seasons.
Incorporate a Sweater Vest
For a more academic, old-money take on tenniscore, layer a sweater vest over a simple collared shirt or wear it on its own. It’s a celebrity-approved look that adds a layer of prep without feeling costume-y.
Opt for a Sporty Tennis Dress
The easiest one-and-done outfit is a simple athletic dress. Look for styles with clean lines, breathable fabrics, and maybe a pleated skirt detail. It captures the entire aesthetic in a single piece.
Layer with a Denim Jacket
A classic denim jacket is the perfect piece to make a tennis skirt feel more grounded and less like a uniform. It adds a touch of relaxed, everyday style to an otherwise sporty outfit.
Add a Quarter-Zip Pullover
A quarter-zip or half-zip pullover offers a modern, athletic feel. Worn over a tank top with a pleated skirt, it creates a look that feels both practical and stylish, straight from the court to the coffee shop.
Focus on Classic White Sneakers
The right footwear anchors the look. A pair of clean, classic white sneakers is non-negotiable for nailing the tennis aesthetic. They are versatile, comfortable, and complement every other piece on this list.
Don't Forget Crew Socks
A small detail that makes a big impact is the visible crew sock. Pulled up to the mid-calf with your sneakers, crisp white socks fully commit to the athletic vibe in a subtle, stylish way.
Accessorize with a Visor or Cap
Top off your outfit with a simple baseball cap or a classic tennis visor. It’s a practical accessory that also reads as intentionally sporty, tying the whole look together.
Try a Preppy Cardigan
For a softer, more feminine approach, add a cardigan. You can wear it buttoned up as a top or draped over your shoulders for a classic, country-club-inspired feel that Reese Witherspoon has perfected.
Consider a V-Neck Sweater
A V-neck sweater, especially one with subtle stripe details along the collar, is another staple of the preppy, athletic look. It evokes a vintage tennis uniform and layers perfectly over a tank or polo.
Start with a Coordinated Set
If mixing and matching feels intimidating, start with a coordinated set. Many brands offer matching tops and skirts. It takes the guesswork out of building an outfit and ensures you get the look right from the start.
