Whether you have an affinity for athleisure or – like us – you're still on the high of this month's Wimbledon match, there's no denying that tennis has a special look that is ubiquitous on a global level.
For our next exploration into fits, we break down "tenniscore" essentials with a little dive into their origins and round up sporty and chic looks to serve off the court.
Polo Shirt
Despite its origins as attire for the field sport, polo shirts were popularized when French tennis player René Lacoste designed his own and made its debut at the 1926 U.S. Open championship.
Since then, its key features were a white jersey knit piqué cotton base with a piqué collar, top buttons, and a tennis tail.
Pullover
Similar to tennis shirts, tennis sweaters weren't originally made for the racket sport, with claims pointing towards ski slopes in the Atlantic as their birthplace.
From Prince of Wales' golf attire to mid-30s tennis players' casual style to cricket players calling the silhouette their own, the garment came full circle to the classic sweater with a V neckline and colored bands. Crewneck sweatshirts or zip-up pullovers are other preppy club sports options.
Shorts
Male and female tennis players used to wear flannel pants until the long, heavy silhouettes were eventually swapped out for shorts in the 1930s, particularly white ones that hid sweat stains well.
Over time, tennis' merge with street fashion introduced more fits, colors, and materials despite the all-white dress code preferred at professional tournaments like Wimbledon, making the once upper-class-exclusive sport more accessible to the masses.
Crew Socks
Crew socks are wardrobe staples for everyone and anywhere. The socks that sit above the ankle not only allow breathability but also prevent chafing and insect bites in green areas. Not to mention, crew socks are style favorites for many, from pairing with classic sneakers to the controversial sock-on sandals look.
Tennis Shoes
First known as "plimsolls," the rubber soles shoe were worn by the British Navy sailors on wet decks in the 1800s. Soon after, they were given the name tennis shoes as wealthy aristocrats wore them during the racket sport.
The athletic shoe that made no sound and kept the tennis court damage-free would come to be reinterpreted as some of the most stylish sneakers designed by contemporary footwear giants.
Rebel on Court
When one thinks of tennis fashion, Andre Agassi instantly comes to mind. True to his notorious saying, “You should see my next outfit if you think this one’s wild,” the eight-time Grand Slam champion frequently sported neon colors and denim shorts.
If you’re a fan of the “bad boy” of tennis and a bit of a rebel yourself, dare to step on the court with bright colors and lots of patterns.