I enjoy playing tennis, but I’d be lying if I said the cute clothes that come along with it don’t play a role in its appeal. And clearly, I’m not alone. Tennis has always been attached to a stylish aesthetic, but the concept of “tenniscore” really started to take off around 2020, and it hasn’t slowed down.

Growth of Tenniscore

Last spring, Vogue reported that women’s tennis apparel sales skyrocketed by 28% year-over-year. This is a result of tennis growing in popularity as a sport, but also the rise of athletic skirts, dresses and the like being sported off the court: tenniscore. And, of course, the impact on the fashion world from tennis stars like Serena Williams, Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka. Like all other cores, tenniscore basically means wearing a look that’s “giving tennis” but in everyday life, no rackets required.

Where Should I Shop for Tennis Clothes?

Ready to serve a tenniscore look? When shopping for tennis apparel, you have several options. You can go with the traditional and established athletic brands like adidas, Nike and Wilson, offering pieces that are guaranteed to hold up in a rigorous game. You can go with the still functional but a bit trendier Alo Yoga, Lululemon and Old Navy designs. Or you can go for more of the quiet luxury vibe with pieces from Tuckernuck or a variety of higher-end brands available at Nordstrom.

• Best for Performance: Adidas + 16% cash back
• Best for Tenniscore Style: Alo Yoga
• Best for Budget-Friendly Performance: Champion
• Best for Balance of Trends and Performance: Lululemon
• Best for Budget Friendly: Old Navy + 6% cash back
• Best for Wide Selection: Nordstrom
• Best for Competitive Play: Nike + 8% cash back
• Best for Quiet Luxury: Tuckernuck
• Best for Classic Designs: Wilson

Table of Contents

• What are the best tennis skirts?
• What are the best tennis tops?
• What are the best tennis sweaters?
• What are the best tennis dresses?
• What are the best tennis hats?
• What are the best tennis bracelets?
• What are the best tennis shoes?
• What are the best tennis accessories?

Tennis Skirts

The great thing about a tennis skirt is that most aren’t made like regular skirts; they feature shorts underneath, so you can move around in them more easily (that’s why they are sometimes called tennis skorts). In some cases, you’ll also have room to tuck a tennis ball in a pocket, too.

Tennis Tops

If you are wearing a tennis top to play and not for tenniscore vibes alone, make sure it is made from moisture-wicking material and allows for easy mobility in your arms and shoulders. When paired with a skirt, you’ll often get the look of a dress, but with the added ease that separates provide (aka easier bathroom runs).

Tennis Sweaters

You might not actually wear a tennis sweater while playing, unless it’s getting drafty. However, these crewneck knits, sweatshirts and V-neck sweaters are too cute to ignore altogether. Save it to wear pre-or post-match or casual wear anytime. For an extra preppy touch, tie it around your shoulders.

Tennis Dresses

A tennis dress not only looks great, but it feels good to move around in since you don’t have to deal with a top riding up or bottoms dropping. It’s also an easy one-and-done fashion choice for days when you simply want to be comfortable, aka ultimate playground outfit! Similar to the skirts shared above, many tennis dresses feature shorts underneath and a pocket for a tennis ball.

Tennis Hats

Your hat could be something you wear on the court, or just to display your love of the game in everyday life. The reason visors are popular for tennis is that they provide a bit more ventilation than a regular cap, while still offering UV protection.

Tennis Bracelets

Did you know the tennis bracelet got its name after tennis star Chris Evert’s diamond bracelet snapped and flew off her wrist during a live U.S. Open match in 1978? Something I love about tennis compared to other sports is how jewelry is part of the uniform, even for the pros, from Coco Gauff to the Williams sisters. While the “true” tennis bracelet has real diamonds, you can get the look with any piece that has that dazzle factor. Just look for pieces that are sweat-resistant so they won’t tarnish with wear.

Tennis Shoes

If you are actually playing tennis and not in this for the tenniscore aesthetic, the shoes you choose to wear are very important, and will be very specific to your needs. That being said, these four models have received rave reviews for their ability to provide support, comfort and flexibility.

Tennis Accessories

Who doesn’t love a cute accessory that speaks to their new hobby? The thing I love about the BagSmart tote, in particular, is that the racket holder is detachable.

Tennis Shopping FAQs

Is tennis apparel always expensive?

No, tennis clothing doesn’t have to be expensive. The vast selection on the market makes it easy to find a piece to fit your budget. However, if you want something that will last and hold up to wear, tear and multiple washes, you will want to turn to brands that are trusted for their quality, like Nike and adidas, for example.

In addition, you can take advantage of RetailMeNot stackable savings, combining promo codes and cash back, to get the best price possible on your purchase.

Why do tennis skirts have shorts underneath?

Shorts are built into tennis dresses and skirts so that you have the coverage you need to move around without hesitation. Many shorts under a skirt or dress will also feature a pocket for tennis balls. And the design of the shorts can help prevent chafing as well.

Are tennis dresses actually practical to wear while playing?

Yes, tennis dresses are practical to play in. While historically, female players were required to wear skirts and dresses, today, a tennis dress is loved for its ease. Not only does the one piece make getting ready a breeze, but you don’t have to deal with adjusting two separate pieces, and they allow you to have a full range of motion.

Can I wear tennis apparel during pickleball?

Yes, you can definitely wear tennis apparel during pickleball! The big difference here is that the pockets on tennis clothes are made to hold a tennis ball and not a pickleball. Pickleballs are larger, and so a piece of clothing intended for pickleball will have a pocket size to match.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Tenniscore appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.

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