I've Played Tennis for 20 Years—These Are the Best Sporty Outfit Trends

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(Image credit: @fitzpatrickerin)

If you've ever seen a vaguely tennis-related headline here at Who What Wear, there's a good chance I wrote it. As a fashion editor who's been playing since I was 10 years old, I love exploring the intersection of tennis and fashion. (Perhaps you caught my interview with Serena Williams?) Nowadays, tennis style seems to have caught on for mainstream shoppers, and I fully support the trend. 

Below, I rounded up some of my favorite sporty trends on the market right now—all of which will look cute, even if you don't have an athletic bone in your body. I'm sure you're already aware of the surge in tennis skirts, but I also thought of four other preppy pieces that are just as cool right now. Scroll down to shop my picks. 

Varsity Sweaters

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(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Preppy sweaters are the perfect way to add just a hint of sportiness to your outfit. Tennis icons ranging from Althea Gibson to Roger Federer have all worn varsity sweaters on the court, so you'll be in good company. I particularly like athletic-inspired vests layered over T-shirts or button-downs. 

Visors

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(Image credit: @venuswilliams)

Visors are a staple for tennis players, but they're also a stylish and practical choice for any outdoor workout. Even if you're not wearing any activewear, a cute straw visor will look great with sundresses and other summer pieces. Don't forget the sunscreen, too! 

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(Image credit: @geniebouchard)

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(Image credit: @fitzpatrickerin)

Pleated Skirts

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(Image credit: @mishti.rahman)

Of course, the crème de la crème of tennis fashion is the pleated skirt. The H&M one below simply can't be beaten for its affordable price tag and chic striped trim. If you don't want to style these skirts in a literal way, try pairing them with your favorite graphic tee and flat slides. 

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(Image credit: @chloepierreldn)

Windbreakers

I love the look of retro windbreakers with hints of '80s vibes. These jackets are also super functional for evening workouts when you want to stay warm but need just a lightweight layer. 

Polo Shirts

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(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

Polo shirts will forever be synonymous with preppy fashion, but don't let that deter you if that wouldn't normally jibe with your personal style. Try wearing a polo with on-trend baggy jeans for a more chill vibe. 

Next, I'm predicting Sephora's next 21 cult-favorite haircare products

Erin Fitzpatrick
Senior News Editor

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of senior news editor (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.