Top 7 'Court-to-Cafe' Tenniscore Trends to try for Effortless Athletic Style Beyond the Pickleball Court this Summer
The sun is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and there’s a distinct thwack in the air. It’s the sound of summer, of friendly competition, and of a fashion trend that has gracefully served its way from the country club to the city streets. We're talking about tenniscore, the sartorial lovechild of classic sportswear and preppy elegance that has captured our collective imagination. And no, you don't need a racquet or a mean backhand to get in on the action.
This isn't just about what you'd wear to a doubles match. Tenniscore has evolved, transcending its athletic roots to become a fully-fledged lifestyle aesthetic. It’s about channeling that effortless, old-money polish and clean-cut confidence into your everyday wardrobe. Fueled by the explosion of pickleball and a cultural craving for timeless, comfortable style, this trend is less about performance and more about a vibe—one that seamlessly transitions from a morning rally to an afternoon rosé at your favorite cafe. It's the ultimate in "court-to-cafe" dressing.
So, how do you master this look without looking like you're perpetually late for a lesson? It's all about strategic pieces, thoughtful styling, and an air of relaxed sophistication. We’re moving beyond the purely functional and embracing the fashion-forward. Forget the fleeting micro-trends; this is about building a versatile, athletic-inspired wardrobe that feels both current and classic. Here are the top seven tenniscore trends to ace your summer style, well beyond the pickleball court.
1. The Modern Pleated Skirt: Beyond the Baseline
The pleated skirt is the undisputed champion of the tenniscore aesthetic. Its crisp lines and playful movement are instantly recognizable, evoking images of Wimbledon whites and sun-drenched courts. But for 2024, this wardrobe staple is getting a serious off-court promotion. The key is to think of it not as sportswear, but as a versatile separate that can be dressed up or down with surprising ease.
Forget the flimsy, performance-only fabrics of the past. Today’s most stylish pleated skirts come in a range of materials, from structured cotton twill to luxe knits and even vegan leather for an edgier take. The lengths are also more varied. While the classic mini will always have its place, consider a slightly longer A-line cut that hits mid-thigh or even a midi-length pleated skirt for a more sophisticated, fashion-forward interpretation. The beauty of the modern pleated skirt lies in its chameleon-like ability to adapt.
How to Style It: For a classic court-to-cafe look, pair a white pleated mini with a slightly oversized navy cashmere sweater and classic white sneakers. To deconstruct the preppy vibe, swap the sweater for a vintage band tee or a simple, fitted black tank top. Throw a denim or leather jacket over your shoulders for cooler evenings. The goal is to create a compelling contrast between the skirt’s sporty origins and the other, more urban or elegant, elements of your outfit.
2. The Elevated Polo Shirt: A Collar with Character
The polo shirt has been a cornerstone of preppy style for decades, but it's officially shed its stuffy, uniform-like reputation. The modern polo is all about updated silhouettes, interesting textures, and a more relaxed fit. It's the perfect piece to lend a touch of polished structure to an otherwise casual look, making it a hero item for nailing the tenniscore trend.
Look for styles that play with proportion. A slightly cropped polo in a ribbed knit fabric feels incredibly current and pairs perfectly with high-waisted trousers or, of course, your pleated skirt. An oversized, boxy-fit polo can be worn untucked over bike shorts for a more casual, off-duty model vibe. Don't be afraid of texture, either. Terry cloth polos give a nod to vintage sportswear, while fine-gauge merino wool or cashmere-blend versions offer a touch of quiet luxury.
How to Style It: The key is to avoid the head-to-toe "golf dad" look. If you’re wearing a classic-fit polo, pair it with something unexpected on the bottom, like wide-leg linen trousers or a sleek slip skirt. Try popping the collar and layering a few delicate gold necklaces for a touch of femininity. For a chic weekend ensemble, a crisp white polo tucked into tailored chino shorts with a leather belt is a timeless combination that always works.
3. The One-and-Done Tennis Dress
Is there anything more effortlessly chic than a tennis dress? It's a complete outfit in one piece, embodying the simple, streamlined elegance at the heart of the tenniscore trend. These dresses are designed for movement and comfort, but modern interpretations have made them a go-to for everything from running errands to brunch with friends.
The options are endless. You can opt for a classic A-line silhouette with a collar and a pleated skirt bottom, or choose a more contemporary style with a sleek, body-skimming fit and subtle cutouts. Brands are innovating with built-in shorts (a game-changer for practicality), supportive shelf bras, and technical fabrics that are breathable and moisture-wicking—perfect for hot summer days, whether you're breaking a sweat or not. The color palette is also expanding beyond classic white to include shades of forest green, navy, soft pastels, and buttery yellows.
How to Style It: The beauty of the tennis dress is its simplicity. For a day out, all you need are your favorite court sneakers and a canvas tote bag. To transition the look for the evening, throw a V-neck cricket sweater or a tailored blazer over your shoulders. Swap the sneakers for a pair of elegant slides or loafers, and add a touch of gold jewelry. Suddenly, your sporty daytime dress is ready for a patio dinner.
4. The Preppy Sweater Vest: Your Secret Styling Weapon
The sweater vest has made a remarkable comeback, and it fits seamlessly into the tenniscore aesthetic. It’s the perfect layering piece for adding a touch of intellectual, preppy charm to any outfit. It provides a bit of warmth for breezy summer evenings without the bulk of a full sweater, making it incredibly versatile.
Look for classic cable-knit or argyle patterns for a true country-club feel, or opt for a solid-colored version in a V-neck or crewneck style. The fit is key: a slightly shrunken, cropped vest looks modern and youthful, while a more relaxed, oversized fit can be layered beautifully over other pieces. As someone who appreciates a well-curated wardrobe, I believe the principles Goh Ling Yong often discusses about investing in versatile pieces apply perfectly here; a great sweater vest can truly transform multiple outfits.
How to Style It: The styling possibilities are vast. Wear a V-neck sweater vest on its own as a top, paired with high-waisted white jeans or a pleated skirt for a clean, modern look. For a more classic take, layer it over a crisp white t-shirt or an oversized button-down shirt, letting the collar and cuffs peek out. This adds depth and a sense of thoughtful styling to your ensemble, proving that you've mastered the art of layering.
5. Statement Court Sneakers & The Power of the Crew Sock
Footwear is the foundation of any outfit, and for tenniscore, it all starts with the perfect pair of sneakers. The classic, low-profile white leather court shoe—think Adidas Stan Smiths or Vejas—is the undisputed king. It’s clean, timeless, and pairs with literally everything from a tennis dress to tailored trousers.
However, don't overlook the impact of a great sock. The humble white crew sock has become a major styling statement. Pushed down for a casual "scrunched" look or pulled up neatly, a pair of ribbed crew socks peeking out from your sneakers instantly signals that you're in on the trend. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference, bridging the gap between your footwear and your hemline and adding an authentic, athletic touch.
How to Style It: Don't overthink it. Let your clean white sneakers and crew socks be the grounding element for your tenniscore looks. They work with pleated skirts, tennis dresses, and shorts. The key is to keep them looking fresh and clean—a scuffed, dirty pair of sneakers can ruin the entire crisp, polished vibe. Consider investing in a good shoe cleaner to keep your whites looking bright all summer long.
6. The Chic Comeback of the Visor & Canvas Totes
Accessories are the finishing touches that pull the entire tenniscore look together, and two pieces, in particular, are having a major moment: the visor and the canvas tote bag. The visor, once relegated to the tennis court or the golf course, is back as a chic, minimalist alternative to a baseball cap. It protects your face from the sun without messing up your hair—a win-win.
The large canvas tote is the quintessential carry-all for this aesthetic. It’s practical, unpretentious, and evokes a sense of being on the go, whether you’re heading to the market, the beach, or, yes, the court. Look for simple, sturdy canvas bags, perhaps with a subtle logo or a colored trim that coordinates with your outfit. It’s the perfect counterpoint to a more structured handbag and completes the effortlessly sporty look. I was recently reminded of this while chatting with a stylist friend, who echoed the Goh Ling Yong philosophy that your accessories should be as functional as they are fashionable.
How to Style It: Choose a visor in a classic color like white, navy, or beige. It looks especially chic paired with a sleek ponytail or bun. Let your canvas tote be your practical companion for the day. Its casual nature perfectly balances the more polished elements of a pleated skirt or a collared dress, keeping the overall vibe relaxed and approachable.
7. Mastering the Palette: Crisp Whites & Country Club Greens
Finally, you can capture the essence of tenniscore without buying a single new piece, simply by focusing on the color palette. The trend is defined by a clean, fresh, and optimistic range of colors that feel inherently summery and sophisticated. The most important color, without a doubt, is a crisp, brilliant white.
An all-white or cream-on-white outfit is the ultimate power move in the tenniscore playbook. It looks incredibly chic, polished, and confident. Beyond white, the core colors include deep "country club" or "Wimbledon" green, classic navy blue, and soft, buttery creams. These shades can be mixed and matched for a timeless look or used as a base for pops of color like pastel pink, baby blue, or sunny yellow.
How to Style It: Try a monochromatic look by pairing a white pleated skirt with a white polo and white sneakers. The subtle variation in textures will keep the outfit interesting. Alternatively, use the classic formula: a white or cream base with an accent of navy or green. A cream sweater vest thrown over a white t-shirt and paired with navy shorts is a perfect example of this timeless, preppy color combination in action.
Ace Your Style This Summer
Tenniscore is more than just a fleeting trend; it's a celebration of timeless American sportswear, reimagined for a modern, versatile lifestyle. It’s about embracing comfort without sacrificing style, and finding the beauty in clean lines, classic silhouettes, and a polished, athletic spirit. It proves that you don't need to be a pro athlete to appreciate the effortless elegance of court-side style.
By incorporating these seven trends—from the versatile pleated skirt to the power of a crisp white palette—you can build a wardrobe that feels fresh, sophisticated, and perfectly suited for every sun-drenched plan on your summer calendar. The best part? These are not one-season wonders. They are classic, enduring pieces that you'll reach for year after year.
What's your favorite tenniscore trend? Are you team pleated skirt or all about the tennis dress? Share your go-to court-to-cafe looks and styling tips in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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