For many years, the athletic aesthetic has been a sought-after trend, from Princess Diana’s effortlessly cool biker shorts and sweater combo to Blokecore, which merges fashion with football, and tenniscore, celebrated for its classic baseball cap, tennis skirt, and sneaker silhouette. These styles, while inspired by sports, are more about its fashion interpretation than actual athleticism. This summer, all eyes are on pickleball and its iconic aesthetic. Here, we explore the racket sport’s signature style and show you how to achieve the look. —Christina Armanious
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is one of those sports that many people have heard of but don’t fully understand. Once primarily enjoyed by older adults, it has recently surged in popularity among the younger generation. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is celebrated for its accessibility—offering a low-risk, low-impact experience with affordable costs, smaller courts, and lighter rackets than tennis. Its simplicity and social nature enhance its appeal. This easygoing and playful spirit is reflected in the sport’s fashion, which features striped patterns, pleated skirts and mini dresses, preppy sweaters, and sneakers—often drawing comparisons to the tenniscore aesthetic.
If you ever find yourself in a pickle, you can’t go wrong with these standout looks.
Maje Dual-Material Pleated Skort and Striped and Embroidered Polo Shirt
Maje is embracing a sporty summer with a capsule collection that marries technical precision with sleek minimalism, resulting in a sporty-chic lineup perfect for both on and off the court. A standout piece, this two-toned, double-layered skirt showcases the collection’s versatility with its playful flounce and various styling options. For a refined, smart-casual look, pair it with the striped cropped polo shirt adorned with ‘Club’ and ‘Saint Honoré Sport’ patches for an ultra-preppy vibe, and complete the ensemble with loafers. Alternatively, opt for a more relaxed style by teaming it with sneakers and a sports bra or camisole.
Sporty & Rich Phoebe Pleated Tank Mini Dress
True to its name, Sporty & Rich offers a mini dress that perfectly embodies its brand ethos. Featuring a racerback tank and a pleated skirt, this dress is an ideal match when accessorized with a paddle or a purse. The red border lines add a finishing touch, subtly evoking the lines of a pickleball court.
New Balance Collared Tournament Tank
The perfect blend of technology and style, this retro-inspired collared tank top from New Balance boasts moisture-wicking and fast-drying properties that keep you cool and dry in the summer heat. Also designed to enhance your performance on the court, it ensures you stay both comfortable and productive.
Vans Classic Slip-On Checkerboard Shoe and Faster Crew Sock
Pickleball outfits embody a playful mix of preppy-chic and sporty elements. These Vans checkerboard sneakers and crew socks offer a fun, fresh take on the sporty aesthetic, letting you create a unique colour story by pairing the vibrant shoes with your ensemble. Available in a variety of colourways, the sneakers offer versatile styling options.
Mumu Lambert Cardigan
Whether worn, draped around your shoulders, or wrapped around your waist, this green striped knit cardigan from Mumu is a versatile accessory that enhances your sporty look with a blend of preppy and street-style flair. Its oversized silhouette adds an effortless, flouncy touch to any outfit and pairs seamlessly with dresses, skirts, shorts, or sport rompers.
Tory Burch Tech Nylon Sweater Vest
Featuring graphic stripes and a vintage-inspired V-neck design, this sweater vest is updated in performance-ready tech nylon. With its classic fit, it’s versatile enough to layer for a polished office look or wear on its own for a sporty-chic ensemble.
Lacoste Cotton Piqué Polo Dress
Inspired by East Coast preppy icons, this pastel yellow polo dress from Lacoste is a standout piece from the brand’s pickleball edit. Crafted from stretch cotton piqué, it combines breathability, softness, and a structured, polished look. Its durability ensures it’s perfect for everyday wear, while its classic silhouette makes it an ideal layering piece, whether paired with a vest, cardigan, or sweater. This athleisure essential is a timeless addition to any wardrobe.
Staud Ace Crossbody Bag Natural Tan
This summer, Staud is redefining ‘courtcore’ with its standout designs. Embracing a playful, tongue-in-cheek approach, the brand introduces an adjustable leather-trimmed crossbody bag featuring an exterior pocket for a paddle-shaped handheld mirror. It’s the ideal accessory for making a bold and stylish statement.
Frasier Sterling ‘Pickleball Club’ Baseball Cap
Known for their LA-inspired customizable baseball hats featuring charming, minimalist graphics, Frasier Sterling’s ‘Pickleball Club’ cap is a must-have. Whether you’re heading to the court, the country club, or just rocking a sporty-chic look, this cap adds the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
Uniqlo Woven London Striped Trunks
As boxer shorts make a significant return to mainstream fashion, these blue striped shorts from Uniqlo are the perfect choice for a light, airy feel that effortlessly combines sporty and preppy elements.
Call it Spring Freshy Sneakers
Call it Spring has you covered for all your versatile sneaker needs this summer. Whether you’re dressing casually with its round toe and trendy platform heel or hitting the court with its tech-enhanced insoles, these sneakers are the perfect choice for a sporty-chic look.
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