Tennis skirts have officially made their way off the court and into our closets. A favourite of athletes and influencers alike, the pleated mini skirt has proven to be this season’s most versatile trend. Regardless of whether you play tennis or not, this preppy piece is perfect for elevating everyday staples and is the ideal trans-seasonal item as we head into warmer weather.
The tennis skirt was first revolutionised as fashion by the infamous clothing brand American Apparel. Their tennis skirt was a grand slam, and transformed how we perceived the humble top-stitched number.
For many, this style of skirt is synonymous with a school uniform, so we don’t blame you for being hesitant – it’s hard to disassociate the fabric and style with the usually un-stylish one worn by our adolescent selves. But there’s no denying it – the prep-chic trend has certainly made a comeback, with brogues, camp collars, and varsity sweaters popping up in collections of luxury designers in recent years (we’ve got the Rick Owens x Doc Martens leather brogues on the top of our Christmas wish list).
Even luxury menswear brand Casablanca is inspired by the sport, with their diffusion capsule Casablanca Tennis Club offering a swanky selection of silky, sportif apparel inspired by the south of France. It’s also a look that’s been worn by countless celebrities – Kendall Jenner has been spotted sporting variations of the tennis skirt from cult brand Alo both on and off the court, and Lady Gaga, who is gearing up to portray Patrizia Reggiani in the highly anticipated House Of Gucci film, was also papped wearing a matching white set from Nike. Anyone else inspired to pick up a racket?
With athleisure wear at an all time high, incorporating this sporty staple into your closet is the obvious choice for post-pandemic dressing. Below, shop marie claire-approved tennis skirts for the upcoming spring season.
Dana Skirt, $43 at Brandy Melville
Floral Quilted Mini Skirt, $775 at Tory Burch
Thom Browne Yellow Loopback 4-Bar Pleated Miniskirt, $984 at SSENSE
AAIZÉL Layered Wool-Blend And Pleated Pinstriped Wool Mini Skirt, $278 at THE OUTNET
Dion Lee Column Pleat Mini Skirt, $441 at Farfetch
OFF-WHITE Pleated Wool Skirt, $864 at My Theresa
Balmain Button-embellished Pleated Cotton-blend Mini Skirt, $1,437.14 at NET-A-PORTER
Claudie Pierlot Sicile Wrap-Effect Pleated Crepe Mini Skirt, $205 at THE OUTNET
DAZIE Venus Tennis Skirt, $20 at The Iconic
