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The 14-day tournament begins August 26 in New York City, naturally leading us to reminisce on Zendaya‘s enviable Challengers press tour style.
Nobody serves looks (pun intended) quite like she does, and her Challengers-era outfits were truly the blueprint for method dressing. Styled by the ever brilliant Law Roach, the actress had no shortage of impeccable tennis-inspired ‘fits for premieres, red carpet events, tournaments and off-duty days.
Between the custom Loewe tennis ball pumps and silver pleated dress the star wore to a photo call in Rome and the archival green-and-white checkered Louis Vuitton jacket dress she sported in Paris, Zendaya had viral moment after viral moment while promoting the blockbuster film. And, in turn, she inspired us all to dress like tennis champs in our everyday lives.
It’s been a solid five months since the premiere, and tenniscore, as social media has deemed it, is still taking the world by storm, as evidenced by last week’s release of tennis champ Naomi Osaka’s curated tenniscore collection for Etsy.
Zendaya at ‘Challengers’ photo call in Rome wearing Loewe tennis-inspired dress and pumps
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images
Style insiders have also weighed in on the trend. Zanna Roberts Rassi, Afterpay Fashion & Beauty Expert and Today Show Correspondent, told THR, “We’ve been seeing tenniscore for quite some time with many factors at play, but the influence of Zendaya and the Challengers’ press tour has elevated the trend, creating a real cultural moment that further proves tennis looks go beyond the court to red carpet tennis couture — thanks to Loewe.”
Rassi continues, “Americans are on board with this preppy meets sporty trend as it’s easy to wear and style with existing closet staples.” In short, the aesthetic is elegant while remaining super attainable, and there’s data to back it up. Based on recent Afterpay insights, workout dress purchases are up 114% year-over-year and pleated skirt sales are up 105% year-over-year.
So, to help you achieve the perfect tenniscore looks this summer into fall, we rounded up the 20 best white sneakers, pleated skirts, tennis dresses and sporty accessories at every price point. Get ready to ace the style of the season both on and off the court.
NikeCourt Dri-FIT Victory Women’s Flouncy Skirt
Have a mini skirt moment with this best-selling flouncy skirt from Nike.
Gucci Medium Duffle Bag With Web
Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner uses this Gucci duffle for his matches. Shop the full Gucci Tennis Collection for Women here and full Tennis Collection for Men here.
Tory Burch Sport Tech Knit Tennis Jacket
Tory Sport has hands-down the best selection of ’70s-inspired athleisure (especially for tennis).
Naomi Osaka x Gem & Blue Beaded Pearl Necklace and Earring Set
World class tennis champion Naomi Osaka teamed with Etsy on a tenniscore-inspired collection, featuring her curated picks across fashion, accessories, gifting and home. She also co-designed a limited-edition jewelry capsule with Etsy seller Gem & Blue.
The Office of Angela Scott The Remi Perforated Suede Low-Top Sneakers
Between its premium leather, intricate craftsmanship and ability to be dressed up or down, The Remi is one of the most splurge-worthy sneakers on the market.
Sporty & Rich White ’94 Racquet Club’ Cap
Sporty & Rich clothing and accessories sell like absolute wildfire, and this cap surely won’t be an exception.
New Balance Women’s 327
Drawing inspiration from the brand’s classic ’70s running shoes, New Balance brought next-level comfort and sporty style to the 327. We tested them ourselves and can confidently say they’re the sneakers of the season.
Casablanca Casa Sport Tennis Balls Organic-Cotton Sweatshirt
Casablanca is king when it comes to luxe leisurewear.
Echo What a Racket Silk Bandana
Tie it around your neck, head or purse handle for a punchy pop of color.
Lacoste Oversized Two-Tone Jacket
This oversized two-tone jacket is the epitome of cool. Order one size down for a normal fit.
Rothy’s The RS02 Sneaker
Don’t stress about wearing your fresh pair of white kicks — these Rothy’s are 100-percent machine washable.
Tory Burch Racquet Jacquard Polo Sweater
Tory Burch is the queen of preppy patterns and this ’70s-inspired polo sweater is the most quintessential example.
Wilson Midtown Tennis Skirt
This pleated skirt is available in more than 20 colorways and features seamless interior shorts, a storage pocket and ventilating fabric with UV protection.
Baum und Pferdgarten Cila Cardigan Sweater
The nautical details on this sweater are reminiscent of a classy post-tennis match look.
Wilson Essex Polo
Crafted from a breathable knit fabric, this polo will keep you cool on the hottest of days.
Anthropologie Athletic Racket Socks
Put some prep in your step with these sweet racket motif ankle socks from Anthro. They’re the easiest way to add some tenniscore flair to any outfit.
Jenni Kayne Cashmere Half Zip
No one does cashmere quite like Jenni Kayne. Prepare to live in this boxy ribbed half-zip — the definition of ease.
