Fashion-forward tennis outfits—known on TikTok as “tennis-core” or, following Zendaya’s tennis ball heels and homage to the Williams sisters last year, “Challengers-core“—aren’t a new trendy phenomenon. Classic and timeless are perhaps more accurate descriptions of the preppy and sports-inspired style that has been a fashion staple since the late 1800s.
That said, outfits inspired by or related to the sport tend to spike during the warmer months. Fueled by the sun, people naturally rush to book court times and put on their best pleated skirts and crisp tennis whites. Summer 2025 was no different, with champion Coco Gauff teaming up with New Balance and Miu Miu for a collection of tennis separates and trendy sneakers inspired by the court. And with the 2025 US Open recently kicking off, tennis outfits are making a comeback as sports fans prepare to watch the top players compete and see their favorite celebrities in stylish courtside looks.
But what’s so appealing about tennis-inspired fashion is that it easily transitions into fall—you’ll probably be reaching for a cable-knit sweater or rugby shirts when the temperature drops. Ahead, Marie Claire curated a selection of tennis-inspired outfits from Fashion Month’s best street style that work both on and off the court. Keep scrolling to discover pairings you can wear as summer winds down and gives way to fall. Ready? Game, set, match.
Post-Game Plans
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A boxy rugby shirt in eye-catching stripes paired with a pleated tennis skirt is a straightforward combination with a chic sports slant. Your best loafers will ground the outfit with a touch of collegiate style.
Reformation
Mina Regenerative Merino Pleated Skirt
Match at 5 p.m., Drinks at 6 p.m.
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A zip-up track jacket paired with a pleated tennis skirt is a timeless look—and also one of fall’s top jacket trends. This outfit stands out with its footwear choice: this Fashion Week attendee chose white bobby socks and her best slingback heels, adding a more formal touch.
Adidas
Tiro Nations Pack Track Top
Vuori Clothing
Baseline Gingham Skirt
Sam Edelman
Bianka Slingback Pump
Grown-Up Gym Class Pinnie
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Whether you’re a spectator, player, or simply someone interested in sports-inspired fashion, consider a mesh top that echoes gym-class style of a pinnie jersey. Elevate the airy and see-through piece with a solid base layer underneath and a stylish pair of rich-looking trousers.
Endless Rose
Pocket Mesh Shirt
Nordstrom
Slim Scoop Neck Rib Tank
TOTEME
Garderob Pleated Woven Tapered Pants
Tennis Tweeds
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A collared tweed shirt dress offers a more refined take on a tennis outfit, drawing from the traditional fashion codes of a country club.
Cinq à Sept
Joel Embellished Tweed Minidress
Sam Edelman
Michaela Mary Jane Flat
DeMellier London
Vancouver Bag
A Trendier Take on Track Pants
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Not every tennis-inspired outfit needs a pleated mini skirt. Balloon parachute pants provide an equally sporty alternative and are also one of fall 2025’s more unexpected trends. A polo shirt in tennis court green paired with a sophisticated piece of gold jewelry will add a polished touch.
Banana Republic
Lightweight Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater Polo
Anthropologie
Daily Practice Base Jump Parachute Pants
Freja New York
Mini Chrystie Bag
Textbook Prepster
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There’s a reason a collegiate cable-knit sweater is a timeless staple in fashion’s Hall of Fame. Pair a V-neck pullover with a flirty mini skirt and a statement pair of chunky sneakers to embrace the style’s sporty vibe.
Everlane
The Cable V-Neck in Cotton Cashmere
Vuori Clothing
Clementine Pleated Skirt 15″
Chloé
Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers
On and Off the Track
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An athletic windbreaker paired with trousers creates a playful balance between sportswear and athleisurewear. Pointed-toe black leather boots complete the look.
Open Edit
The Icon Trousers
rag & bone
Joni Leather Chelsea Boots
Crisp Tennis Whites
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A lesson in tennis fashion wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the classic monochromatic look of white on white. Pair a polo shirt with a pleated midi skirt together to lean headfirst into the tennis aesthetic. Feel free to break it up with accessories in contrasting fall color trends.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Classic-Fit Mesh Polo Shirt
Wilfred
Twirl Pleated Skirt
Dolce Vita
Reyes Mary Jane
Cardigan on Queue
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Here, an outfit that skillfully combines function with fashion. The polo shirt and tennis skirt combo works for practicing your backhand and later meeting friends for post-practice cocktails. For an extra preppy touch, knot your favorite cardigan across your torso—an optional layer that adds style as well.
ACNE STUDIOS
Color-Block Lyocell and Wool-Blend Jersey Polo Shirt
Lilysilk
Cable-Knit Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan
Fabletics
Women’s Hot Shot Pleated Skirt
School Spirit
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Argyle is a core code of tennis-related fashion. Take a cue from this stylish Fashion Week attendee by pairing a knit skirt with the graphic diamond print and a collared rugby top.
MANGO
Sweater With Contrasting Zipper Collar
Not the Tennis Skirt You’d Expect
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As an alternative styling idea, layer a varsity V-neck sweater with a collared shirt popped underneath. In contrast to the preppy vibe, add a denim maxi skirt and your best black boots.
J.Crew
Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt in Linen
Polo Ralph Lauren
Cabled Cotton Cricket Sweater
Reiss
Fee Denim Midi-Skirt
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