Tennis core: the rise of nostalgia-driven sporty elegance

Pleated skirts, polo shirts, high socks, and athletic shoes are no longer reserved exclusively for professional tennis players. Today, these style elements successfully rule the streets, fitting right into urban chic.

According to American media, "tennis core" has been declared the "it-trend" of 2024. Many brands have decided to merge street fashion with signature sportswear elements. This way, we can easily create fashionable, comfortable, and on-trend outfits. This trend teeters on the edge of "old money" or "rich girl" trends, but in this case, it doesn't require having an account in a foreign bank.

Tennis Core draws inspiration from classic tennis outfits from the '70s and '80s, evoking nostalgia and the elegance of past decades. It is a universal style that works for everyday wear and more formal occasions, thus gaining a wide fan base. Tennis core clothes are comfortable and airy, ideal for warm days, and the sporty cuts provide freedom of movement.

Despite its sporty nature, this style exudes elegance and class. The popularity of "tennis core" is further fueled by celebrities and influencers like Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid. The style brings fresh air and lightness to fashion, especially in the summer months, thanks to its light colours and simple cuts.

Additionally, this trend is gaining popularity on social media, especially on TikTok, where the hashtag #tenniscore is nearing a million views. This trend fits into the broader move of matching clothing and accessories to lifestyle, appearance, and interests, which is also evident in the popularity of hashtags like #cottagecore or #gardencore.

Although this trend emerged at the end of 2022, it is now reaching its peak. This year, the Summer Olympics return to Paris. At the end of May, the prestigious French Open 2024 tennis tournament began, meaning that designers immediately saw the opportunity to leverage this movement and show how to merge fashion trends with apparel that ensures comfort and freedom of movement necessary on the court.

We can't overlook Luca Guadagnino's latest film, "Challengers," starring Zendaya. The movie intertwines sports rivalry with passion, and Zendaya, Josh O'Connor, and Mike Faist deliver unforgettable performances. Costumes by JW Anderson give the film a unique character, and the "tennis core" aesthetic moved from the screen to the red carpet thanks to Zendaya and her stylist, Law Roach, who showcased a fresh take on tennis-inspired fashion during the film's promotion.

While promoting her latest production, Zendaya is often seen in sporty hoodies, white sneakers, and pleated skirts—some of the most characteristic elements of the "tennis core" trend.

When we talk about the "tennis core" trend, the first thing that comes to mind is pleated mini skirts. They are the essence of this style, combining elegance and freedom of movement. The distinctive pleats add lightness and grace, and the mid-thigh length accentuates the legs.

Classic colours like white, navy blue or pastels make it easy to create various outfits, but bolder colours and patterns are increasingly appearing. Pleated skirts are a universal element, ideal both for the court and everyday wear. They pair well with polo shirts, T-shirts, or sweaters, creating stylish and comfortable sets.

Polo shirts and T-shirts with collars are another basic element of the "tennis core" style. Like pleated skirts, they combine comfort with a classic look. Their solid colors (white, navy blue, or gray) add elegance and freshness to any outfit. Their versatility makes it easy to mix and match them with other wardrobe pieces, creating both everyday and more formal sets.

Polo shirts in standard white and navy stripes can be worn with shorts, simple skirts, or pleated models. They also work well in a more formal version with white heels, as Jessica Mercedes shows, or a casual look with white sneakers. The classic cuts and high-quality polo materials guarantee comfort and durability, while subtle details such as contrast trims or delicate patterns add character while maintaining a minimalist look.

Some it-girls choose more vibrant colour versions and opt for coloured-collar shirts in shades of red, pink, or yellow for everyday wear.

Caps made from lightweight and breathable materials are essential to the "tennis core" style. They are perfect for sunny days, protecting against the sun and adding a sporty character. They complement both sporty and more elegant outfits.

White sneakers with a classic design are another accessory that cannot be overlooked in a "tennis core" outfit. Besides them, long socks or those with subtle patterns are worth considering. They're not only practical but also a stylish accent.

Outfits for the tennis court are associated with pleated skirts, polo shirts, crop tops, hoodies, dresses, sneakers, and caps. But this style goes further by adding a touch of luxury and exclusivity to the sporty character. Instead of traditional wristbands, it opts for jewelry like pearls, gold necklaces, or impressive earrings.

Like sailing or golf, tennis is historically associated with the social elite. The "tennis core" style draws from this tradition, incorporating jewelry into sportswear to emphasize the luxury and privilege associated with this sport. You don't have to be a tennis expert to enjoy this aesthetic; it's more about expressing yourself through fashion, regardless of imposed conventions. Tennis is no longer reserved for the upper classes, and the elites are losing their exclusivity.

When it comes to "tennis core" styling, it's worth seeking inspiration from influencers and fashion brands that have been linked with tennis for years. Just look at old Lacoste or Ralph Lauren campaigns, photos of Princess Diana in her leisure moments, or Maria Sharapova at the height of her career. A fascination with this sport can also be found in archival collections by Chanel, Miu Miu, Dior, or Hermes.