This summer was strange, and at times didn’t really feel like summer. Yes, as we all know they were unprecedented times (sigh), however, the world of fashion continuously proves how formidable it can be. If there was one thing that could not be questioned, it was the fact that tennis skirts were the real winners this summer!

I’m not gonna lie, I was definitely not early when it came to this trend, but the moment I hopped on, I never wanted to get off again. I bought one, and then another, until my whole summer wardrobe consisted of the perfect array of tennis skirts.

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly how this trend took the world by storm – but it did. The game of tennis obviously had a part to play. But there’s also certainly a sense of fashion nostalgia embedded in its take off. The tennis skirt has undeniably been trying to make its mark as a trend in recent years. However, this year it just seemed to pop.  And by mid-summer tennis skirts were being worn by the majority, online personalities and real people alike. Professional tennis itself may have had to take a back seat this summer, with tournaments like Wimbeldon being cancelled, but it’s preppy style certainly proliferated beyond the court, to the point where it was showcased as every girl’s staple summer look. 

What is especially appealing about this look is the fact that it truly has been worn by everyone over recent months; from celebrities, to social media influencers, to me, you and your best friends. Its inclusivity is undeniably alluring, and it doesn’t stop there. An extremely important aspect is its affordability and accessibility. A multitude of high-street fashion stores stock tennis skirts at the moment, perhaps most notable being Bershka, which continues to sell them for around €20. Retailers like Bershka, whose style of tennis skirt is evidently suited for more fashionable, non-practicable occasions, is just one example of what’s on offer. Sports brands like Nike also have a selection of tennis skirts which differ slightly in style, as they seem to have the actual game of tennis in mind, therefore being more fit for the purpose originally intended. There’s not a huge difference between the two types, but the sporty styles are certainly less restrictive, and incorporate less variety when it comes to colour and patterns. What’s even better is that they can also be bought in vintage stores and charity shops if you’re up for the search. So, if you’re all about sustainable fashion (as we all should be), fear not, you will not be left out of this craze!

Versatility is, of course, another big winner when it comes to this piece. Whatever look you’re hoping to achieve, a tennis skirt can be incorporated, regardless of whether your objective is casual or dressy—don’t worry, it’ll work! This is where we come to the realisation that perhaps our love of tennis skirts doesn’t have to be a summer fling. The coming months naturally call for a shift in everyone’s wardrobe choices, but in this case, a spring/summer outfit can easily become an autumn/winter outfit. All it takes is some layering with an oversized jumper and a good pair of tights, and you’ll be warm and still rocking your favorite summer style. The current selection of tennis skirts available have anticipated such necessities, with the availability of check and tartan patterns, in deep reds, greens and greys.

I myself am the type of person who continuously wears short skirts and dresses throughout the year, regardless of the season or weather. (Unless it’s snowing or something, I’m not that brave.) So, I have very much come to the conclusion that my extreme adoration for tennis skirts shall continue, and I really look forward to experimenting with them some more. Let’s face it, it is exceedingly difficult to not feel like the ultimate soft girl breezing through life or a badass Serena Williams, depending on how you choose to style it, when wearing a tennis skirt!

If you’re looking for some inspo, check out Paola Alberdi (IG: @paolaalberdi), Mishti Rahman (IG: @mishti.rahman), Chloe Pierre (IG: @chloepierreldn), and Louise Cooney (IG: @louisecooney_).

(Mishti Rahman)

(Chloe Pierre)