19 best tennis skirts to take you from padel to picnic
Featured in this article
Yet again, tennis skirts are gracing the runway. While it's nothing new for designers to look backwards when designing forwards, there's usually a longer stopgap before we circle back. But we can confirm mini pleats were, once again, served up by Chanel, Alice + Olivia and Dior for Spring 2026.
While some say tennis skirts are reminiscent of their school days (mine was navy blue with yellow piping), most love their functional-meets-flirty nature and preppy edge. Personally, I appreciate the nostalgic nod to the '90s — yep, Princess Di was a fan, and still is my go-to for athleisure inspo.
So why can't we leave the bright whites trend alone? Unlike low-rise jeans, flared leggings, butterflies and resin rings, which had short-lived resurges, tennis skirts have been a summer mainstay since 2022, the fashion set pairing them with oversized knits and rugby shirts. Rarely are they reserved for the court.
If we are wearing them to work out, though — possible, thanks to the addition of built-in shorts and breezy fabrics — I'd keep the colour palette simple, layering it with your lightest sweatshirt and white trainers.
On the runway, Jonathan Anderson blended two trends together when designing Dior's Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear collection – crafting his pleated mini from emerald tweed and adorning it with sparkles. Alice + Olivia went more maximalist, finishing its skirts in primary coloured stripes. And Chanel? Romantic, embellishing a super high-rise option with brooch-style buttons.
Of course, the high street has followed suit, with the likes of H&M and Alo offering up pastel Padel-wear — simply choose from fire engine red or last year's in-demand hue, butter yellow. But if you like to keep it classic, your off-white and ivory options are near endless — hence why I've personally rounded up the styles worth your investment.
So, whether you're heading to the court for a spot of skilful cardio or want to swap your sweatpants for something a little more chic, tennis skirts reign supreme as a wardrobe staple.
Ahead, our edit of the best tennis skirts to ace the SS26 trend.
Tennis skirt FAQs, answered:
How should a tennis skirt fit?
Really, this depends on your preferences — do you prefer a higher waist, or do you typically wear skirts and trousers low-slung? But, if you're one for padel, tennis or hot-girl walking, it's recommended that your skirt sits comfortably on the waist (no slipping or twisting) and still allows a full range of motion. Most of the styles above are crafted from super stretchy fabrics, they should meet both of these criteria if you take your usual size.
Should I opt for a tennis skirt with pleats or not?
Again, this is down to what to your personal tastes are. However, if using it to work out, pleated styles are often praised for offering greater freedom of movement and better airflow, helping keep you cool.
.jpg)


.jpg)

.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)

.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)