How to Style a Tennis Skirt
It's the year of the tennis skirt. Whether you dress it up or dress it down, here are five ways we recommend styling your tennis skirt.
There’s no denying the tennis skirt is back with a vengeance, and we’re not at all surprised. Easy to throw on, easy to style, and effortless comfort guaranteed— the tennis skirt is a versatile staple we support rocking for every activity and outing.
Our expert in-house stylists are joined by one of our favorite influencers, Sophia Pauline, to guide you on styling this on-trend wardrobe must-have. Whether you’re on the tennis court, running errands, or en route to whatever's next on your busy agenda, read on for all the skirt styling inspo you need.
1. Tenniscore.
Thanks to Gen Z and their incredible social media savvy, there is now a “core” aesthetic for every fashion style. If you are familiar with TikTok, think of the popular Y2K aesthetic or Normcore (a casual unisex style of fashion).
The new core aesthetic that debuted this summer is tenniscore. What is tenniscore? Tenniscore is a retro, 70’s inspired, preppy athleisure wear. Think pleated skirts, polos, and chunky white dad sneakers.
This vintage style is not only taking over the world of athleisure, but it's dominating the streetwear space, too.
“Oh Tenniscore, a classic!” said Sophie Pauline Primozich, a young New York-based influencer. “Your favorite sweatshirt paired with a polo under while the collar pops out the top? This look is so easy to pull off, and you look way more put together than you feel.”
Hop on this hot trend by pairing a pleated tennis skirt with a vintage-inspired oversized polo or sweatshirt. Or even consider pairing your pleated skirt with a brami and oversized cardigan sweater.
Round out your look with a fresh pair of white sneakers and tall socks.
As a brand so deeply rooted in tennis performance wear, Wilson has played an integral part in elevating the tenniscore aesthetic. Our 2021 limited collaboration with the luxury fashion brand, Kith, is a great collection to reference for further tennis skirt style inspo. The beauty of tenniscore is that it makes a fashion statement both on and off the court.
If you’re looking to shop this style today, check out our Women’s Tennis Collection — each piece from this selection fits the tenniscore aesthetic perfectly.
Shop this style:Midtown Tennis Skirt
2. Channel your inner Country Club.
When styling a tennis skirt, you can never go wrong with the preppy, country club tennis player look— and don’t worry, you don’t actually need to be a tennis player to pull off this outfit. This is a classic look that is hard to mess up and pretty much always in style.
“I love a classic, sleek look pulling in your favorite neutrals, and instead of throwing on a sweatshirt, tie it over your shoulder to provide texture while adding some personality to the look!” said Sophia.
Start by tucking your favorite polo shirt into a simplistic tennis skirt, and maybe even tie a light sweater over your shoulders if it’s chilly outside. From there, all you need is a pair of cute sneakers, some high-ankle socks, and a baseball cap or a visor to complete the outfit.
Regardless of athleticism, this is a chic look anyone can execute effortlessly.
Shop this style:West Side Tennis Skirt, Center Court Seamless Polo, Ace Seamless Bra Top
3. Keep it classic with Tennis Whites.
Why not go for a look that has been fashionable since the Victorian era? Grab your favorite white tennis skirt and pair it with a white top of your choice—tank top, t-shirt, long sleeve, it’s all up to you. This look requires minimal effort yet serves up maximum style.
It is important to note there is more to this Wimbledon-inspired look than sheer style. The history behind this look suggests that wearing all white reflects sunlight and conceals sweat— making this the perfect outfit for a hot summer day.
Learn more about the history of tennis whites here.
Shop this style:Midtown Tennis Skirt, Riverside Cropped Sleeveless Polo, Wilson Crew Sock
4. Streetwear Style.
If you’re trying to look slightly more fashionable and want to go the trendy streetwear route, consider pairing a darker-colored tennis skirt with a trendy top. The darker-colored skirt will give your everyday athleisure an alternative streetwear aesthetic.
This outfit is multipurpose. You could be going to an early morning workout class or maybe just running errands—you’re versatile.
To complete your athleisure street style, you’ll want to throw on some fun shoes or an oversized cardigan.
Shop this style:Limitless Tennis Skirt, State Cardigan
5. Maximize comfort on the court.
This is an outfit designed for the competitive athlete. Tennis skirts are the perfect choice of attire when you’re trying to up your game.
“This look is just as comfy as it is cute,” said Primozich. “I love pairing this dark green tee with a light skirt & adding a fun multi-colored shoe to naturally tie it all together.”
Ideally, we recommend choosing a skirt made from an anti-odor, four-way stretch, quick-drying material to help you reach your maximum potential on the court.
Pair your skirt with a breathable, lightweight tank or tee, and you will be good to go. Ventilation and ultra-breathable materials are a must when it comes to success on the court.
Shop this style:Midtown Tennis Skirt, Essex Polo
As we transition into colder months, don’t be afraid to add layers to any of these looks. Consider throwing an oversized blazer or button-up over your tennis skirt.
Sophia said, “Running around the city in a tennis skirt feels effortless. Layer it with a button-down that you can tie around your waist or take off when needed. I love dressing this look down with headphones and slides, so you’re ready for brunch or a quick trip to the grocery store.”
To fit the tenniscore aesthetic, you can even layer a cable knit sweater over a pleated tennis skirt and finish the look with a matching, cozy lapel jacket. Tennis skirts are perfect for warmer climates, but they can just as easily be styled in the cooler fall months.
Wilson is clearly no stranger to tennis wear. Vogue even named Wilson one of their favorite tennis clothing brands to shop in 2022.
Serving any of these looks will turn heads, but in case you need more inspo, be sure to follow us on social for some more of our favorite skirt looks from our community.