Summer Trend: Sporty Prep and Tennis Skirts

The MVP: Tennis Skirt Takes the Lead

Once a court-side essential, the tennis skirt has officially made its way from the baseline to the boulevard. What started as functional sportswear in the early 1900s—designed for freedom of movement and modesty—has evolved into a fashion favorite that’s flirty, flattering, and totally photo-ready.

Popular Cuts

• Pleated: The OG style—bouncy, playful, and full of motion.
• A-line: Sleek and slightly structured, great for pairing with fitted tops.
• Micro-mini: Bold and barely-there, a 2025 standout for those who love drama.

Color Trends

• Crisp White: Classic, clean, and country-club cool.
• Pastel Palettes: Soft lilac, mint green, powder blue—perfect for summer days.
• Varsity Stripes: A nod to prep-school uniforms with an athletic edge.
• Neon Accents: Think highlighter yellow or hot pink waistbands for a pop of fun.

This skirt isn’t just for serves and sets anymore—it’s become a summer staple that’s easy to style and impossible to ignore.

What to Wear With a Tennis Skirt (That Isn’t a Racket)

The tennis skirt is the MVP, but the magic is in the mix. Whether you’re going for crisp and collegiate or full-on fashion-forward, here’s how to style it beyond the baseline:

Classic Preppy Combo

• Polo shirts, V-neck knits, and crew socks create that polished prep-school vibe.
• Toss on a varsity jacket when the breeze kicks in—it’s practical and on-point.
• Best for: brunch, casual Fridays, coffee runs.

Sporty-Chic Streetwear

• Pair your skirt with crop tops, bomber jackets, and a sleek baseball cap.
• It’s tennis-core with a downtown twist—effortless, edgy, and totally wearable.
• Best for: music festivals, downtown strolls.

Y2K Revival Meets Country Club

• Zip-up hoodies, tube socks, and chunky platform sneakers bring retro realness.
• Blend pastel athleisure pieces for that sweet spot between nostalgia and trend.
• Best for: daytime hangouts, mall runs.

Finish Strong: Shoes & Accessories to Complete the Look

You’ve got the skirt, now seal the style with pieces that elevate the entire outfit. From the ground up, here’s how to accessorize your sporty-prep ensemble with intention (and a bit of attitude):

Footwear

• Retro Sneakers: Think New Balance, Adidas Gazelle, or anything with a ‘90s vibe.
• Dad Trainers: Chunky, comfy, and unapologetically normcore.
• Chunky Loafers: Preppy with a punch, especially when paired with tall socks.
• Sporty Sandals: Velcro, padded, or platform—perfect for hot days with long walks.

Accessories

• Sweatbands: Yes, they’re back—and they double as style statements.
• Mini Belt Bags: Hands-free and fashion-forward for errands or events.
• Visor Caps: Retro, functional, and fresh-off-the-court energy.
• Oversized Sunnies: Think bold frames with Y2K flair or classic tortoiseshell for balance.

Jewelry

• Keep it playful and light—skip the chunky chains.
• Enamel Rings: Colorful, stackable, and youthfully bold.
• Tennis Bracelets: A sparkling nod to the theme—and yes, the pun is intended.

These finishing touches take your outfit from basic to buzzy. Whether you’re going bold or subtle, accessories add that final swing to your style game.

Style Tips: Sporty-Prep Do’s and Don’ts

The secret to nailing the sporty-prep vibe? It’s all about smart styling choices. These quick do’s and don’ts will help you serve looks without slipping into cliché territory:

• ✅ Do balance volume — a mini tennis skirt pairs perfectly with an oversized top for contrast and comfort.
• ❌ Don’t wear stiff or formal fabrics — they clash with the casual-athletic spirit of the look.
• ✅ Do layer with lightweight cardigans or zip-up hoodies to keep the look fresh and functional.
• ❌ Don’t go too costume-y — channel the tennis-core trend, but avoid looking like you’re heading to an actual match. Keep it inspired, not literal.

Think effortless, not engineered. These tips help you stay on-trend while keeping your style playful, wearable.

Where to Shop the Sporty-Prep Trend

From budget buys to luxe investments, here’s where I’m scoring my favorite sporty-prep pieces this season. Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or just grabbing a new tennis skirt, these brands deliver the look:

Mix high and low, classic and cool—sporty-prep isn’t about perfection. It’s about personal flair with a hint of courtside charm.

Editor’s Picks: My Favorite Looks This Season

Here are three sporty-prep outfits I’m loving this summer—each one blends fashion and function with a playful twist. Whether you’re headed to brunch or the boardwalk, these looks serve style with zero effort.

Final Serve: Why This Trend’s a Smash Hit

The sporty-prep revival isn’t just another flash-in-the-pan trend—it’s got staying power. Here’s why I’m all in on tennis skirts and preppy staples this summer:

• Comfort meets cool — it blends laid-back athletic wear with polished, nostalgic charm.
• Flatters everyone — tennis skirts work on all body types and can flex to fit your style.
• Outfit versatility — easy to dress up or down, these looks go from brunch to night out without a hitch.
• Flirty, fun, and fuss-free — just like summer should be.

If you’re craving a style refresh that’s equal parts playful and practical, this trend’s got your name all over it. Time to serve some serious looks.