The rise of tennis core from the courtside and streetwear to the catwalk is undeniable. Since 2018, there has been a resurgence of the preppy aesthetic, signaling an upcoming shift of tennis wear into the spotlight. Before the 2021 US Open, the US Tennis Association (USTA) launched a campaign to change the perception of tennis and promote its elitism in the sports world. In the past three years, tennis core fashion has reached new heights.
The growing influence of tennis fashion can also be attributed to the cultural impact of the film “Challengers,” featuring fashion icon Zendaya. Zendaya appeared at various press events, showcasing tennis core styles, and paying homage to tennis players Serena Williams and Sloane Stephens with her iconic hairstyles and fashion choices. Her hairstyle debut styled by Ursala Stephens featured a long slicked-back braided ponytail with a white bow. She was also seen wearing the preppy white hairband at a few events.
It’s no surprise that the fashion industry was quick to recognize the appealing culture of the tennis core. With the assistance of popularity from the media, these fashion brands have begun to collaborate with athletes to capitalize on the growing interest in sports. In 2021, Naomi Osaka teamed up with Frankies Bikini to incorporate those clean-cut uniforms into high-end fashion. She was seen at the 2024 US Open sporting her custom white-and-green Nike kit, a white Nike jacket with a giant green bow, and tiny green bows on the back of her shoes. These outfits are giving classic Sailor Moon Tennis and it’s a slay as she collaborates with Yoon Ahn Campaign collection for Nike Women.
Furthermore, Miu Miu’s Autumn/Winter 2022 collection paid homage to tennis-core fashion. In July 2022, this collection emphasized athletic wear and launched an exclusive event called ‘Miu Miu Tennis Club’ in Saint-Tropez. In addition, Lacoste also embraced the tennis aesthetic by incorporating visors and jersey knits in their spring/summer 2022 collection. Brunello Cucinelli launched an exclusive collection for SS24, featuring Bermuda shorts, women’s dresses, skirts, men’s knitwear, tops, and accessories, all inspired by the popularity of tennis. Lastly, Adidas has also demonstrated its interest in luxury fashion by partnering with Gucci in their capsule collections to unveil their first-ever sports luxe collection.
The Olympic Games, hosted in the fashion capital of Paris, once again demonstrated the intersection of sports and trends. Athletic brands like New Balance received heavy exposure during the Olympics through tennis player Coco Gauff’s media campaigns due to her NIL deal. The trend of #tenniscore has garnered 75.9k views worldwide and continues to grow.
The effortless beauty of tennis core aesthetic lies in its endless possibilities. Whether it’s transforming seasonal pieces into quick, go-to looks through a selection of neutral colors, A-line skirts, and sneakers, tennis core will always be synonymous with elite aesthetics.
Girls United wanted to showcase some of our favorite tennis core picks for you.
About Amber: Amber Little is a writer, fashionista, and digital content creator. She has used her Journalism degree from Georgia State University and is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Interior Design at SCAD to educate others through life and beauty.