The tennis skirt is where elegance meets empowerment — a chic staple that transcends sport, reflecting the evolution of women's fashion, freedom, and form. The journey begins in the late 19th century. Back then, tennis skirts were long and cumbersome, restricting movement on the court.
The 1920s introduced a revolution for us. We recall how Suzanne Lenglen, a pioneering tennis star, dared to challenge norms by introducing shorter skirts, setting trends that would inspire generations.
As decades passed, we witnessed the rise of pleated skirts, mini skirts, and performance-oriented designs. Today, tennis skirts reflect versatility and style, catering to a diverse range of body types and sizes.
Join us as we take you through the fascinating history of the tennis skirt and our place in this evolving narrative.
The Birth of the Tennis Skirt
The tennis skirt made its first appearance in the late 19th century, coinciding with the growing popularity of tennis among women. At that time, players wore skirts that reached down to their ankles, which were influenced by societal norms of modesty, making movement cumbersome.
As we embraced racquet sports like tennis, we recognised the need for practicality. Early tennis skirts were often paired with corsets and long sleeves, focusing more on decorum than functionality. The heavy fabrics of the era added to the restrictive nature of these skirts. Nevertheless, they became symbols of accessibility in women's sports.
We see these early designs as the foundation for future innovation. They mark the beginning of a journey toward creating functional and stylish tennis apparel.
The Roaring Twenties: Suzanne Lenglen's Influence
The 1920s were a pivotal moment, thanks to Suzanne Lenglen's courageous fashion choices. She introduced shorter, more practical skirts to the court, allowing for ease of movement and setting a new standard for female athletes.
Suzanne was more than a tennis champion — she was a cultural icon who revolutionised both the game and the way women dressed for it. Known as La Divine, the French athlete dominated the sport in the 1920s, winning six Wimbledon singles titles and eight Grand Slam championships overall. But her influence extended far beyond the scoreboard.
Lenglen was bold, glamorous, and unapologetically stylish — she played in calf-length skirts, sleeveless tops, and even a strand of pearls, shattering the era’s dress codes. Designed by French couturier Jean Patou, her outfits introduced high fashion to the court, setting the tone for tennis as not just a sport, but a style statement. Her legacy lives on in every tennis skirt that blends elegance with performance.
Pleats and Mobility: The 1930s to 1950s
In the 1930s, we welcomed the pleated tennis skirt, which combined grace with function, improving our movement on the court. This era also brought the influence of designer Ted Tinling, who created skirts that balanced aesthetic appeal with athletic needs.
We love the classic look of pleats, which have come to symbolise tennis elegance. They highlight our commitment to creating garments that support athletic performance while embracing fashionable designs.
The Mini Revolution: 1960s Fashion Forward
The 1960s transformed our approach to the tennis skirt as British designer Mary Quant popularised the mini skirt, inspiring us to embrace shorter hemlines. This bold statement not only represented modernity and independence but also enabled us to move with greater ease on the court.
As female athletes, we found that the mini skirts enhanced our performance, allowing us to express our individuality. The daring designs of this era continue to inspire our collections.
Performance Meets Style: 1970s to 1980s Innovations
The 1970s and 1980s marked a turning point in tennis fashion, with a growing emphasis on performance. Designers began incorporating innovative materials like polyester blends and spandex, resulting in tennis skirts that were far more practical, breathable, and functional on the court.
This era also brought a stylish evolution — garments were crafted to meet the dual demands of athletic performance and fashion appeal. It was a pivotal moment where function finally met flair, and tennis wear stepped confidently into the modern era.
Bold and Colourful: The 1990s and 2000s
The 1990s were all about bold colours and patterns in our tennis skirts. We embraced vibrant hues and daring prints, celebrating individuality and personal expression on the court.
With technological advances enhancing fabric quality, our skirts incorporated moisture-wicking materials, ensuring we remained comfortable during high-energy matches.
Influential players like Serena Williams showcased our striking outfits, inspiring us and setting new benchmarks for fashionable sportswear.
The Modern Era: Technology and Trends
Today’s tennis skirts reflect cutting-edge technology, with a strong emphasis on breathability, stretch, and durability. Modern innovations such as moisture-wicking fabrics and UV protection help athletes stay cool, comfortable, and protected during play.
Sustainability has also become a key focus in tennis fashion. Many brands, including Forty-Love, are embracing recycled materials and responsible manufacturing practices to meet the growing demand for eco-conscious sportswear.
From the timeless appeal of a white tennis skort to the versatility of a black tennis skirt, today's styles cater to a wide range of preferences—blending performance with polished design.
The Tennis Skirt Today: A Symbol of Empowerment
The tennis skirt today stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment—celebrated for its ability to offer freedom of movement while reflecting individuality and strength. Its evolution mirrors broader cultural shifts surrounding women in sport and society.
No longer confined to the court, the tennis skirt has become a staple in everyday fashion, thanks to its effortless blend of elegance and versatility. With the rise of athleisure and the influence of social media, the tennis skirt continues to inspire a new generation—championing style, performance, and self-expression.
The Cultural Impact of the Tennis Skirt
The tennis skirt has become a true cultural icon—symbolising liberation, femininity, and the evolution of women in sport. As traditional dress codes relaxed, the skirt shifted from a symbol of restriction to one of freedom and self-expression.
Its influence extends well beyond the baseline. The pleated tennis skirt, once a staple on court, found its way into school uniforms and everyday wardrobes, representing a timeless preppy aesthetic that still resonates today.
Fashion has since come full circle. Designers are reimagining vintage tennis looks, drawing inspiration from 90s silhouettes, structured pleats, and archival sportswear. Today’s trends blend on-court nostalgia with off-court chic—proving that tennis style belongs as much on the streets as it does in stadiums.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Tennis Skirt
The future of the tennis skirt is set to serve both style and innovation. As fabric technology advances, expect to see even more refined blends of performance functionality and elevated design. Sustainability continues to take centre court, with a growing focus on recycled materials, low-impact production methods, and conscious consumption.
As athleisure cements its place in modern wardrobes, the tennis skirt is leading the charge—effortlessly evolving from match day staple to everyday icon.