From the pristine courts of Wimbledon to the scroll-stopping feeds of fashion influencers, Tenniscore chic is having a serious moment. This stylish subculture combines athletic elegance with preppy polish, drawing on the sport’s heritage to serve up a clean, elevated aesthetic that works both on and off the court.
But what exactly is Tenniscore chic? How do you wear it in 2025? And why is everyone – from luxury designers to high street brands – embracing this sporty trend? Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or just love a crisp white polo, here’s everything you need to know about Tenniscore chic.
What Is Tenniscore?
Tenniscore refers to a fashion aesthetic inspired by traditional tennis attire – think pleated skirts, cable-knit jumpers, polo shirts, and crisp whites – blended with modern silhouettes and streetwear sensibilities. It draws on the classic country club look, but with a contemporary twist that feels both effortless and aspirational.
The word itself is a portmanteau of “tennis” and the ever-popular aesthetic suffix “-core” (as seen in other style trends like cottagecore, normcore, and balletcore). What sets Tenniscore apart is its clean, tailored appeal – all-white outfits, structured lines, and functional, breathable fabrics – paired with a sense of laid-back luxury.
The Rise of Tenniscore Chic
Tennis has always had a stylish side. From Suzanne Lenglen’s revolutionary short skirts in the 1920s to Serena Williams’ bold Nike catsuits and Roger Federer’s elegant Uniqlo ensembles, tennis has long blurred the lines between fashion and function.
But Tenniscore chic really gained mainstream momentum during the 2020s, fuelled by a nostalgic return to Y2K aesthetics, the rise of athleisure, and a renewed love for minimalism and preppy style. Major fashion houses like Lacoste, Dior, and Miu Miu leaned into the tennis aesthetic, while streetwear and sportswear brands began releasing capsule collections featuring visors, skorts, and varsity sweaters.
On social media, influencers and stylists began styling tennis staples like pleated skirts, track jackets, and sporty co-ords with off-duty ease – worn with loafers, crew socks, or even chunky trainers for a more urban twist.
Why Tenniscore Works in 2025
Tenniscore chic continues to dominate because it taps into several fashion pillars that resonate strongly in 2025:
- Quiet Luxury: With the “old money” and quiet luxury trends still in full swing, Tenniscore offers a wearable form of refined elegance. It’s minimalist without being boring and luxurious without being loud.
- Functional Fashion: In a post-pandemic world, practicality still matters. Tenniscore outfits often feature breathable fabrics, stretch materials, and performance-ready designs, making them ideal for both active and leisurewear.
- Transitional Style: Tenniscore bridges casual and smart effortlessly. A tennis-inspired mini dress can be styled for brunch, errands, or even a casual office setting with the right accessories.
- Gender Neutrality: While rooted in womenswear, the Tenniscore aesthetic is increasingly gender-inclusive. Oversized polos, vests, and skorts can all be styled across gender expressions.
Key Pieces in the Tenniscore Wardrobe
If you’re looking to embrace the Tenniscore trend, here are some must-have staples for your wardrobe:
1. Pleated Tennis Skirts
The hero piece of Tenniscore. Opt for white or pastel tones, or go bold with colour-blocked versions. Style with a crop top or oversized sweatshirt.
2. Polo Shirts
Classic and versatile. Choose fitted silhouettes for a tailored look or oversized for a relaxed streetwear vibe. Look for brands like Ralph Lauren, Sporty & Rich, or Uniqlo.
3. Cable-Knit Jumpers
A nod to vintage tennis style. Drape it over your shoulders for full Wimbledon energy, or wear with shorts and loafers for modern prep.
4. Tennis Dresses
Sporty, flattering, and surprisingly wearable. Great for summer styling or layering with jackets and trainers.
5. Visors and Headbands
Accessories are crucial. Retro visors, thick sweatbands, and tennis socks add authenticity to your look.
6. Tennis Trainers
Look for crisp white sneakers – think Adidas Stan Smiths, Nike Court Legacy, or Veja Esplar – that are as stylish as they are functional.
How to Style Tenniscore Chic
For Everyday:
Pair a white pleated skirt with a pastel polo and white trainers. Add a shoulder bag and layered gold jewellery for a polished finish.
For Workwear:
Swap your usual blouse for a structured polo shirt tucked into high-waisted trousers. Add loafers or ballet flats to complete the look.
For Festival Season:
Layer a tennis dress with a colourful windbreaker or varsity jacket. Add sporty sunglasses and chunky trainers for a playful, fashion-forward take.
For Date Night:
Choose a body-hugging tennis dress with a deep V-neck, layered with a cropped cardigan. Pair with kitten heels and a sleek clutch.
Brands Leading the Tenniscore Trend
Several brands have leaned into the Tenniscore movement, offering collections that blend sport with style:
- Miu Miu – Their SS22 collection featured low-rise tennis skirts and sporty knits that ignited a revival.
- Lacoste – A pioneer in tennis fashion since 1933, Lacoste continues to merge athleticwear with high fashion.
- Adanola – Known for its minimalist athleisure, perfect for that off-duty Tenniscore look.
- Sporty & Rich – The ultimate brand for luxe, preppy, retro-inspired activewear.
- Tory Sport – Classic silhouettes and clean colour palettes ideal for functional elegance.
Is Tenniscore Sustainable?
As with any trend, sustainability matters. The good news is that Tenniscore, with its reliance on timeless silhouettes and high-quality basics, aligns well with conscious fashion. Invest in versatile pieces you’ll wear beyond a single season.
Many brands are also now offering eco-conscious options, with organic cotton polos, recycled polyester skirts, and low-impact sneakers.
Pro tip: Consider shopping second-hand or vintage. A vintage Ralph Lauren jumper or retro Nike tennis skirt is not only more sustainable, but also adds authenticity to your look.
Final Serve: Why Tenniscore Is Here to Stay
In a sea of fleeting trends, Tenniscore chic has lasting appeal. It’s clean, confident, and classic – with just enough edge to keep it contemporary. Whether you’re headed to brunch, the office, or centre court, Tenniscore offers a refined yet wearable uniform that celebrates movement, style, and nostalgia.
As we continue to favour comfort-driven, versatile fashion that doesn’t sacrifice aesthetic value, expect to see Tenniscore evolve further – blending seamlessly into the everyday wardrobes of fashion lovers everywhere.
Game. Set. Match.
