The French Open is currently being held in Paris, marking the 123rd edition of the tournament where top players such as Rafael Nadal and Coco Gauff are showcasing their skills on the court. The tournament is a significant event in the world of tennis, drawing in fans from around the globe. In addition to the French Open, next month the 2024 Vogue World show will also be taking place in Paris to celebrate 100 years of fashion and sport, shining a spotlight on the stylish history of tennis. Tennis has a rich and fanciful fashion history dating back to the Victorian era when players wore elaborate, flamboyant outfits on the grass courts.
In the 1800s, tennis, originally known as lawn tennis, emerged in Britain and was played by men and women in proper attire, adhering to strict fashion regulations. Players were required to wear all-white clothing, a tradition that is still followed at Wimbledon today (though women are now allowed to wear colored undershorts). During this time, women often wore skin-tight corsets over floor-length dresses while playing tennis, reflecting the high-class and fashionable status of the sport. The elaborate silhouettes of tennis attire were a reflection of the fashion trends of the era, as players sought to make a stylish statement on the court.
Throughout the early 1900s, tennis fashion began to evolve with the introduction of colored trims and innovative designs by trailblazing players such as Suzanne Lenglen. Lenglen, a French tennis player, defied convention by wearing short-sleeve or sleeveless tops with skirts, embracing the fashionable flapper silhouettes of the 1920s. This marked a shift towards more casual and fashion-forward tennis outfits, setting the stage for the modern, performance-driven attire that players wear today on the court. Despite the focus on functionality and comfort in modern tennis attire, the early days of tennis fashion with their extravagant and stylish ensembles remain a charming and whimsical aspect of the sport’s history.
In recent years, tennis fashion has continued to make headlines with players like Serena Williams making bold statements with their outfits on the court. From Off-White tutus at the U.S. Open to sleek, performance-driven designs, tennis attire continues to blend style and functionality. While the focus in modern tennis attire is primarily on performance, the history of flamboyant and chic tennis fashion from the Victorian era onwards adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the sport. The combination of tradition, innovation, and style in tennis fashion reflects the evolution of the sport and its intrinsic connection to the world of fashion.
The colorful and stylish history of tennis fashion continues to captivate fans and fashion enthusiasts alike, showcasing the unique blend of athleticism and artistry in the sport. As tournaments like the French Open and Wimbledon celebrate their rich traditions, the evolution of tennis attire serves as a visual representation of the changing trends and cultural influences over the decades. From corsets and floor-length skirts to sleek and modern designs, tennis fashion has come a long way while still retaining its distinctive charm and elegance. The glamour and allure of tennis fashion from the past continue to inspire and delight audiences, adding a touch of sophistication to the fast-paced and dynamic world of professional tennis.
