What To Wear To The Tennis? These 12 Options Serve Perfect Preppiness

By Tyson Beckett
Viva
A dozen court-approved looks. Photo / Tuesday Label

Effortless ensembles that ace the dress code

All eyes will be on centre court at Stanley St when the ASB Classic gets under way today. But shift your eyes just beyond the bright-blue court and spectators will be showcasing their off-court style statements too.

In the peak of summer, getting

Our picks below fit squarely within the code’s preppy aesthetic while making subtle, practical concessions necessitated by summer heat.

A wide-brimmed straw boater is a perennial favourite for tennis spectators. This closer-fitting woven hat offers similarly classic aesthetic and stylish sun protection without impeding on the sightline of your seatmates.

A bag is mandatory for stashing courtside essentials (SPF and perhaps a small cushion). This colourful knit tote has a longer set of handles hidden inside, meaning you can sling it across your body when moving between the refreshment stand and your seats.

Rebe contrast tank, $140

Contrast piping adds a touch of polished structure to this easy-wearing cotton vest. Continue the high-low contradiction by balancing with a structured skirt and heels, or lean into the laid back with lightweight linen trousers or even slinky trackpants.

Karen Walker cap, $115

Casual accessories, like this cap, are all that’s required to pare down tailored wardrobed items to make them suitable for wearing in the stands.

Lee Mathews shirt, $475 from Muse Boutique

A crisp button-down is an effortless and perfectly preppy pick for a day in the stadium. Use as a billowing layer over a tank or wear loosely buttoned with the collar popped and sleeves folded back.

Tuesday trousers, $239

Varsity stripes are just as at home in classic sportswear as they are in modern streetwear. These easy-wearing trousers have a leg in each camp.

Ruby skirt, $229

For a nod to the traditional pleated tennis skirt try a bouncy, fashion-forward fabrication.

Kate Sylvester waistcoat, $499 and trousers $459

A debonair two-piece striped summer suit will have your look sorted in straight sets.

New Balance 1906RV1 sneakers, $249

A simple way to imbue a sporty element to any outfit? Swap your footwear out for a pair of tennis shoes.

Laing cardigan, $345

Courtside weather conditions can be changeable. On even the most sweltering days, games can stretch past twilight and an evening breeze often picks up. A lightweight cardigan that can be slung over your shoulders means you won’t pack in before the players do.

Loewe sunglasses, $630

Ensure the only strain your eyes come under is from tracking the ball up and down court.

A shirt dress with a prim bow detailing nails the balance between casual and elevated. The short sleeves of this smart design protect shoulders from the sun without cloying length.

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