STYLING
WHY WE'RE STILL OBSESSED WITH TENNISCORE
By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 8 June 2026
THE TENNIS LEGENDS SERVING LOOKS
Picture: Getty
Picture: Getty
Picture: Getty
Picture: Getty
Serena Williams is as much a style MVP as she is a tennis one.
As fashion continues its love affair with the 00s, it makes sense that tenniscore is finding its way into the picture. At the forefront is Anna Kournikova – the 00s darling of the sport – whose cute co-ords and playful skorts have made their way back onto our feeds. At the same time, Serena Williams’ slightly edgier take on tennis style – think techy Nike pieces and denim skirts – is also enjoying a renewed appreciation. But these two icons aren’t the only tennis girls we’re taking style cues from. From Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff to Zendaya during the Challengers press run, tennis has no lack of stars to get inspired by.
And of course, we can’t forget the anticipation for Wimbledon – AKA the world’s biggest tennis tournament. This year, we’re looking beyond the spectator uniform of old-money prep and all-white looks. Instead, we’re placing the players themselves firmly on our summer moodboard. On the hunt for tennis clothes this summer? Scroll for ways to style the trend, ft. 4505’s new tennis-inspired drops, OYSHO, ASOS DESIGN and more.
ELEVATE TENNIS DRESSES WITH PREMIUM ACCESSORIES
If we had to name one thing we instantly associate with tennis, it would be the tennis dress. While the tennis dress silhouette has evolved over the years, the classic pleated mini remains our favourite iteration. It’s sporty, stylish and functional thanks to the freedom of movement it offers. Team it with a shoulder bag, chunky trainers, a visor and a tennis bracelet for a slightly more luxe take on sporty chic.
GET THE LOOK:
01: Tommy Hilfiger Colour-blocked rectangular shoulder bag in dark blue, £130
02: New Balance 204L trainers in brown, £120
03: 4505 active polo neck tennis dress with pleated skirt in white, £35
04: Thomas Sabo Silver tennis bracelet with white zirconia in silver, £100
05: 4505 tennis visor with adjustable back in white, £12
BLEND SPORTY AND CITY-READY ESSENTIALS
Another great thing about tenniscore? How endlessly adaptable and versatile it is. If you’ve got an upcoming staycation in the city, tennis-ready tank tops and sweat-wicking headbands will prove worthy additions to your suitcase. Play off Anna Kournikova’s courtside style with a buttermilk-yellow palette, and follow the city uniform of capris and flip-flops. Completed with a pair of sleek black sunglasses, you’ve got a look that’s ready for coffee runs, brunch dates and whatever else your summer schedule serves up.
GET THE LOOK:
01: ASOS DESIGN jersey capri leggings in yellow polka dot, £22
02: Havaianas slim flip flops in green olive, £30
03: Gina Tricot angled oval sunglasses in black, £13
04: 4505 Icon active quick dry headband in butter yellow (coming soon)
05: 4505 active halter neck performance vest with inner bra in butter yellow (coming soon)
PLAY WITH A SUMMER PALETTE
Want a modern look with bold statements? Bring colour into play. White is probably the most iconic shade in the tennis palette, but dialling it up with juicy hues offers an instant dopamine boost. Create the illusion of a co-ord or playsuit by pairing a white fitted top or tank with short-shorts, then amp up the energy with jelly heels and a statement bag. The brighter your accessories, the better.
GET THE LOOK:
01: 4505 fitted cotton everyday t-shirt with quick dry finish in white, £16
02: Desigual Bag designed by Mr. Christian Lacroix in black, £95
03: ASOS DESIGN Holiday jelly kitten heel toe thongs in green, £22
04: 4505 active 3 inch booty shorts in white, £18
PREP UP WITH KNITWEAR AND KNEE-HIGHS
Pictures: ASOS
Preppy style is still on the trend menu. Between polo shirts and pleated tennis skirts, tenniscore has always borrowed from collegiate style. Start with the aforementioned two for a tennis-inspired look, then add knee-high socks and some slingback heels, (which you can substitute for ballet flats if you like your shoes closer to the ground). If you’re not in 30-degree heat, a cable-knit V-neck is the perfect cherry on top.
GET THE LOOK:
01: ellesse Ortegas tennis skort in black, £45
02: OYSHO Short sleeve piqué polo shirt in off-white, £27.99
03: Pull&Bear Faux patent leather high-heel shoes in burgundy, £35.99
04: Calzedonia Long satin cotton socks in milk, £8.99
05: Polo Ralph Lauren Kimberly icon logo cotton cable knit v-neck, £200
