Fashion-forward tennis outfits—known on TikTok as "tennis-core" or, following Zendaya's tennis ball heels and homage to the Williams sisters last year, "Challengers-core"—aren't a new trendy phenomenon. Classic and timeless are perhaps more accurate descriptions of the preppy and sports-inspired style that has been a fashion staple since the late 1800s.
That said, outfits inspired by or related to the sport tend to spike during the warmer months. Fueled by the sun, people naturally rush to book court times and put on their best pleated skirts and crisp tennis whites. Summer 2025 was no different, with champion Coco Gauff teaming up with New Balance and Miu Miu for a collection of tennis separates and trendy sneakers inspired by the court. And with the 2025 US Open recently kicking off, tennis outfits are making a comeback as sports fans prepare to watch the top players compete and see their favorite celebrities in stylish courtside looks.
