No skirting around it: summer 2021 is all about tennis style 

We’ve all heard that life imitates art. But apparently, fashion imitates sport.

There’s something about tennis trends that translate seamlessly into off-court lifestyles as well. From the clean-cut sophistication of Wimbledon fits to the edgy kits that allow players to stand out on court, tennis fashion truly provides something for everyone. And it has certainly stood the test of time.

We have tennis to thank for countless trends that have survived generations. Stan Smith gave us the sneakers that we see on people of all ages to this day. René Lacoste bestowed his beloved polos upon us, along with the signature crocodile that is recognized globally. And Chris Evert’s tennis bracelet will likely go down in both sports and fashion history.

This summer, there’s been a new takeover. Enter: the tennis skirt.

With the help of Gen Z, TikTok, and the season’s most popular brands, the preppy skirt has become a staple piece in summer wardrobes. It’s exploded in a range of styles as well; the classic white pleats can be found at Tory Burch, Rowing Blazers, American Apparel, and hundreds of other stores. For a more traditional approach, these have been paired with polos, cardigans, sweaters vests, and sneakers. Suddenly, you look like you’ve just stepped off Centre Court at Wimbledon.

However, the traditional look isn’t for everyone. But never fear; even the edgier dressers can find tennis skirts to match their tastes. Stores like Urban Outfitters, Zara, and Lululemon fulfill the goals of more unique dressers, offering the skirt in neons, plaids, and eccentric structures and patterns. These venture far outside the tennis court or school hallway- they can be paired with leather jackets, cowboy boots, graphic T-shirts…The possibilities are essentially endless.

Yes, the tennis skirt is exceptionally fashionable and versatile, no matter how you want to wear it. But the skirt is just the beginning. In the wake of the tennis apparel takeover, other on-court styles from past generations have found their way back into the closets of fashion influencers and on the racks of the biggest brands. Retro polo dresses, sweater vests, and matching sets are popping up on NET-A-PORTER, at Saks Fifth Avenue, and at Intermix, just to name a few. Not to mention the tennis logos that are now emblazoned on crewneck sweatshirts everywhere, from Gucci to Bandier.

If you’re in search of inspiration for how to rock tennis garb in your everyday life, look no further than your favorite celebrities. Supermodels Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner have been spotted sporting their pleated skirts, sports bras and sneakers on more than one occasion. In fact, Jenner is a model for Alo Yoga, whose tennis-inspired summer line has taken the world of athleticwear by storm. Some stars are even using their sporty fits to motivate them to get on court and put their skills to the test. Lady Gaga was recently seen taking tennis lessons while on a weekend getaway in Northern California. The popstar donned a white Nike skirt and bra as she finessed her form.

So when it comes to this trend, run, don’t walk. And even if you don’t feel like running or walking, or even playing tennis, simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the clothes.