Game, Set, Match: How Tenniscore Became the Summer’s Hottest Trend

Tennis fashion has undoubtedly taken the spotlight this summer, with Tenniscore still going strong as the 2024 US Open kicks off in Queens, New York. The tournament not only draws in sports fans but also serves as an unofficial start to NYFW, with brands like Gucci, Lacoste, Fila, Ralph Lauren, and Tory Burch fully embracing the trend.

Tenniscore, which marries the comfort of athleisure with the timeless elegance of tennis attire, has transitioned from a microtrend on TikTok to a mainstream phenomenon. The trend pays homage to the sport’s classic staples—think polo shirts, cable knit sweaters, and pleated skirts—yet it feels refreshingly modern and accessible. This blend of past and present makes Tenniscore so appealing, especially during a summer when fashionistas seek both style and ease.

Naomi Osaka’s US Open outfit, affectionately dubbed the “Tinkerbell” ensemble, has sent fans into a frenzy. The look is not only a nod to whimsy and flair but also a reminder of tennis trailblazer Althea Gibson, who became the first African American to win a Grand Slam tennis event in 1957. Gibson’s legacy lives on as Tenniscore brings elements of her iconic tennis whites into modern fashion. Watch the video of Osaka.

The enthusiasm for tennis is palpable, not just on the courts but on the streets. The US Open Fan Week, held from August 19 to August 25, brought tennis fans together in a celebration that extended beyond the sport itself. Events like the Block Party featuring D-Nice saw attendees dressed in the spirit of Tenniscore, with many opting for warm-up gear, leisure suits, and playful combinations of white with pops of color. The unifying theme was clear: a desire to capture the joy and excitement of tennis, both in sport and in style.

Tennis is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, and its influence on fashion is undeniable. As we embrace the Tenniscore trend, we’re reminded that fashion, much like tennis, is all about the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

Monique (Mo) Glover is an award-winning NYC-based fashion designer and instructor. After designing for large retail brands, she launched her label, ZYEM NYC, named after her son. ZYEM has been highlighted by WGSN as a trendsetting brand to watch because of its responsible cultural collaborations. Rooted in her Black American heritage, which has spanned the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens since the 1940s, Monique’s work is inspired by her experiences coming of age in NYC, global travels, and the inter-generational style she observes in her son, Zyem, and his friends.

 

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