Whether you love tennis thanks to the movie Challengers, because of the game itself, or even just for the fashion and overall aesthetic, we’re here to let you in on a little secret: Tennis-inspired clothing is a great addition to any style. While a whole range of court-approved options have major style power—think polos, tennis sneakers, and all-white ensembles—our favorite just might be the tennis skirt, which is having a moment amidst US Open season, the “old money” aesthetic, and a resurgence of preppy style.
Not sure what tennis skirt to buy or how to make the look work for the real world? Read on for 11 standout tennis skirt outfit ideas to try this fall, highlighting just how many ways you can adapt this look.
Power Prep
@doechii / Instagram
Doechii has made the pleated tennis skirt one of her style staples throughout her Alligator Bites Never Heal era. This navy matching set leans into the piece’s preppy vibes, especially when accessorized with a beret, loafers with socks, and layered jewelry.
Minimalist Barbie
@hoskelsa / Instagram
This tennis skirt-inspired look on Elsa Hosk seems like what a Barbie might wear to the court if she needed a break from pink. In shades of cream and white, the crochet bucket hat and sweater are already sweet on their own. But when you add a bubble tennis skirt (one of the silhouettes of the season), the look gets a playful, feminine edge that’s all too easy to recreate.
Ultra-Cool Active Look
@alo / Instagram
For a tennis-inspired look when you’re actually getting your sweat on, you can’t beat the effortless chic of an all-black outfit. Start with a black tennis skirt of your choice (like the one below from Alo), then add a cropped tank or sports bra. If it’s chilly, throw on an athletic jacket.
Casual Saturday
@sportyandrich / Instagram
Embrace tennis skirts’ practical purpose by pairing yours with a sporty graphic tee, a baseball cap, and sunglasses. Whether you’re hitting the court or simply going on a coffee run, this ensemble is a winner.
Hot Girl Librarian
Getty Images / Gotham / GC Images
Please, please, please take a look at this librarian-inspired outfit on Sabrina Carpenter. The Miu Miu tennis skirt here is a true standout, and luckily, budget-friendly alternatives are widely available. Complete the look with a cropped polo and some oval eyeglasses.
As If!
Instagram / @losangelesapparel
This tennis skirt outfit is giving Cher—and we don’t mean Sarkisian, but Clueless icon Cher Horowitz, played by Alicia Silverstone. To channel the ‘90s character’s style, start with a yellow plaid tennis skirt, then pair it with a white or black long-sleeve top. Finish the look with black sheer tights and strappy sandals for an effortlessly put-together ensemble.
Game, Set, Statement
Getty Images / Gotham / GC Images
This statement-making outfit that Olivia Rodrigo wore out and about gives it-girl energy in all the best ways. Grab your go-to graphic tee (if it’s cropped, that’s even better) and pair it with a pleated white tennis skirt. Sunglasses and black loafers will add a cool contrast.
Country Club Regular
@luxurylaw / Instagram
If you’re on the hunt for an outfit to wear to a posh country club, Zendaya has a foolproof outfit formula. You’ll want to stick to a solid color for this one, like classic tennis whites—from your tennis skirt to a tank polo and even sneakers. The end result is effortlessly chic and has major society tennis vibes.
Canadian Tuxedo
@paigelorenze / Instagram
We never would have thought to wear a Canadian tuxedo-meets-tennis-inspired outfit, but Paige Lorenze highlights the power of this unexpected choice. While her exact Lioness outfit is sold out, you can get a similar and equally modern look with the options below. Add some chunky gold earrings to your denim button-down and tennis skirt to seal the deal.
Tenniscore Neutrals
Getty Images / Stephane Cardinale
This khaki ensemble on Caroline Daur is all the fall inspo you need. Chances are you already have a khaki trench in your wardrobe (if not, this is your sign to get the staple piece), so pair it with a matching tennis skirt. To give the outfit a The Matrix vibe, black leather gloves are the way to go.
Hit the Court
Getty Images / Stephane Cardinale
A tennis-inspired outfit that’s wearable yet gives rich aunt energy, this all-white number on Didi Stone feels both elevated and sporty. Here, she wears a white tank, tennis skirt, and sneakers—and while that would have looked darling on its own, it’s the black-and-white striped sweater that really does it for us.
