Need proof? The fashion set (from Lauren Crowe to Chloe Rose) have been seen dabbling in pleated minis as they play tennis and lounge around the house, while shopping app LIKEtoKNOW. it has seen an increase of 2300% month-on-month in searches for the sporty skirt style.
Why? Customers are looking to find a comfortable alternative to rigid denim and a summer-appropriate alternative to tracksuits… or diversify their workout routines in lieu of gyms being open.
Granted, tennis skirts – reminiscent of private schools/dreaded sports days/cheerleading – give off a preppy vibe you might not feel confident in pulling off. But fear not. Said influencers of the world have – as per usual – offered up a lesson in translating the trend to real life – and it’s (pleasantly) much easier than expected.
Off the court, pleated mini skirts as a collective have been spotted at the likes of Junya Watanabe, Helmut Lang and Tory Sport. Influencers are pairing them with collared shirts (think these Zoom-appropriate tops), gold jewellery, cropped knitted cardigans in all manner of pastel hues and even cowboy boots. Trust us, it works.
On the court, we’re seeing tennis skirts paired with retro sports bras and sweatshirts for a more laid back #lewk – and one which will take you straight from playtime to picnic.
If you’d have told me a few months ago that I’d be pressing pause on my obsession with denim, blazers and summer dresses and falling head over heels for tracksuits instead, I’d have politely suggested you might be going mad.
But alas, Coronavirus has changed consumer habits in a way no-one could’ve predicted, paving the way for a long line of 90s revivals. Cycling shorts have shot to the top of must-have lists while tie-dye is infiltrating our minds and our wardrobes. It’s partly down to their nostalgic value: our desire to find comfort in trends that remind us of simpler times. But also a simple need for practical and non-restrictive clothing as we WFH.
Today, we’ve got another trend to report on. Wimbledon might be cancelled this year, but tennis skirts are the latest micro-trend to add to your wardrobe. Whether you’re exercising or not.
On that note, if you are partial to a bit of tennis (no pressure), you’re in for a fantastic workout. It burns fat, builds muscle, increases cardiovascular fitness, improves gross motor skills and builds bone strength. Do not underestimate its power. Tennis skirts, as you can see, also reign supreme as the most stylish piece of workout gear around… so your search for a new hobby can be declared over.
