We've got summer sports on the brain — namely, tennis and golf. The PGA Tour and Wimbledon have just wrapped, and the U.S. Open is approaching next month. But even if you're not spectating, we bet the golf and tennis looks have still been on your mind this summer.
That's because we're seeing the ultra-sporty style trend in a big way this summer. Both golf and tennis have traditionally been synonymous with prep culture. While that vibe is still prevalent, the styles are far more effortless, casual, and wearable than before. It's the latest iteration of the athleisurewear trend, and it has just the right mix of elevated polish and laid-back ease. Plus, with looks this fun and flirty, you can wear them anywhere — no court or links required.
Ahead, check out the elements of what makes for a stylish golf or tennis player — that is, minus the racquets and clubs.
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Workout Dresses
Not long ago, tennis dresses didn't come with built-in shorts or bras — a true abomination. We're awfully lucky to live in the era of the quick-dry, pull-on workout dress, many of which now comes fully equipped with inner bike shorts, pockets for tennis balls, and extra bust support.
Girlfriend Collective Ivory Paloma Racerback Dress, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Outdoor Voices Court Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Pleated skirts are a classic option for those wanting a less sporty, more flirty foray into golf and tennis style. It's a similar concept to the skort minus the built-short component; you can pop on a pair of breathable cotton bloomers underneath for non-active fashion wear or pair them with trusty spandex and your club or racquet of choice.
Alo Varsity Tennis Skirt, $, available at Nordstrom
Micro Bike Shorts
If you're going to wear a pleated skirt, you'll likely need a pair of mini biker shorts underneath. These contouring shorts not only offer coverage, but you can also tuck tennis balls up the side leg as a tennis "pocket" hack.
Jgame Georgica Compression Shorts, $, available at Jgame
Aritizia TnaSLICK™ Tennis Mid-Rise 2” Short, $, available at Aritzia
Splits59 STEFFI RECYCLED TECHFLEX SHORT, $, available at Splits59
Crew Socks
Make no mistake — there's a certain style of sock needed to complete the tennis or golf look, and that is the high crew. The reason is so that a higher-cut sock can absorb sweat that's dripping down your legs. (Ankle socks could never.) You've got a few extra inches of upper sock area to show off, so go ahead and select a snazzy pair.
Kule The Women's Tennis Sock, $, available at Kule
Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Ralph Lauren Striped Crew Sock 6-Pack, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Adidas Athletic Cushioned Quarter Socks With Arch Compression, $, available at Amazon
Nike Everyday Cushion Ankle Training Socks (3 Pair), $, available at Amazon
Collared Polo Shirts
Ah, the polo shirt. It's classic, it's summery, it's athletic — and it deserves a spot in your wardrobe, even if you're not playing. The look of tennis and golf used to be dressier and far more refined, but we're especially loving the cropped, boxy collared polo shirt these days. (Though, we certainly don't mind the more fitted, buttoned-up look, either.)
Tory Burch PERFORMANCE PRINTED POLO, $, available at Tory Burch
Abercrombie and Fitch Striped Ribbed Polo Tank, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Pleated Golf Shorts
Golf shorts tend to have a pleated detail at the front, which makes tucked-in polo shirts look more streamlined and proper. Nowadays, you'll find plenty of pleated lightweight, wicking shorts made from a four-way stretch material, which makes it easier than ever to maneuver around — whether you're on the course or off.
Athleta Brooklyn Bermuda Short, $, available at Athleta
Adidas Solid 5-Inch Shorts, $, available at Adidas
Nike Dri-FIT Ace Women's Pleated Golf Shorts, $, available at Nike
Gap High Rise Pleated Khaki Shorts with Washwell, $, available at Gap
Tennis Sneakers
Wearing proper tennis footwear is key. Whereas running shoes are built to get you moving (primarily) forward, tennis shoes are made to help you hustle from front to back, side to side, up and down, and skidding across. Off the court, they can be worn with your new tennis ensemble or paired with jeans for a comfy weekend look.
Adidas Barricade Parley Tennis Shoes, $, available at Adidas
Another place that golf and tennis looks often overlap? The visor. Players appreciate the visor because it not only keeps the sun out of their eyes but, unlike the regular baseball cap or dad hat, the crownless style allows for top-of-head ventilation. This preppy staple also is a sun-safe summer accessory: win/win.
Lele Sadoughi TWEED VISOR, $, available at Addison Bay
Madewell Packable Braided Straw Visor, $, available at Madewell
Lululemon Fast Paced Running Visor, $, available at Lululemon
Large Canvas Tennis Totes
An oversized canvas tote is a stylish way to transport all your tennis or golf gear — balls, racquets, towels, a water bottle, an extra set of clothes, you name it. Bonus points if you grab the tote in a cute design, which can easily take you from the country club to wherever you're headed next.
Kule Kule The All Over Gingham Tote, $, available at Anthropologie
Palmes Arrow Heart Canvas Tote, $, available at Nordstrom
A cozy knit sweater vest is a cold-weather staple; it keeps you warm but doesn’t overheat you. However, summer isn’t over, and we’re not ready to pull out our favorite fuzzy and cable knit pieces just yet. Instead, we’re tuned into lightweight summer vests: We’re talking about light-weight linen variations, the button-up kinds inspired by three-piece suits, and retro-inspired cropped styles. Worn alone or with a crop top or flirty bralette, they can be an easy, breezy solution to the summertime wardrobe quandary of looking put together without overheating. Next time the weather is sizzling and your go-to white tank top is in the laundry hamper, there’s no need to fret; simply opt for a summer vest. It’s an effortless piece to button into for a polished yet sleek appearance.
Plus, with a little styling, these often revealing pieces are more versatile than you might think. You can wear it to the office with a matching blazer and trouser set for a 2022 take on the power suit. Then there’s the alternative of loose cargo jeans for a street-style moment. (Did someone say TikTok ready?) Or you can take it a step further for a casual yet upscale look by going for a head-to-toe monochromatic ensemble. There’s a vest for everyone; fitted versions with a popped collar, cropped with plunging necklines, longer lengths, some with distressed details. We’ve curated a roundup of the most whimsical and elevated vests for your choosing ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
With about two more months of warm weather left, it’s not too late to refresh your bikini drawer for those last-minute beach trips, pool dates, and end-of-summer vacations.
While there is no shortage of swim labels to pick from, it can be daunting to find a style that is the perfect mix of fashion-forward, comfortable, and affordable. With that in mind, we did the work of testing out the most popular swimsuit brands on the internet for you.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
“I am already part of #NapDressNation, so no convincing was needed when I heard that Hill House was launching a Swim collection. Since becoming a mom of an active toddler, my priorities for swimsuits have changed — while I still am forever on the hunt for a cute and trendy print or style, what I really need is something that is going to support me in all areas and stay put when I’m chasing my daughter on the beach. I found Hill House’s Swim pieces to be just what I was looking for.
I love the Isla Swim Top so, so much, especially because of its ruffle sleeve — I might even wear it when I’m not at the beach or the pool paired with some high-waisted denim shorts or a pair of white jeans. The Lola Swim Bottoms are full-coverage, but I still felt cute and comfortable in them.
I’m wearing an XS on top and a small on the bottom, which is typically what I wear in other swim brands as well. I’m excited to try Hill House’s other styles, particularly their one-pieces. And, in case you’re looking for a pair of sunglasses to match, these crystal-embellished cat eye sunnies are also Hill House.” — Sara Tan, Beauty Director
“I never knew I would be interested in a holiday equivalent of swimwear, and yet I found myself reaching for Good American‘s Sparkle collection, which looks like something I would want to wear on Christmas if I were to spend it in the Caribbean.
While the one-shoulder one-piece and the bandeaubikini both look like they are made from tinsel, the fabric on the inside is smooth to the touch and the styles are more wearable than they look online; on the body, the suits were less holiday festive and more Studio 54-meets-Palm Springs pool party, which is not not how I want to dress this summer.
Both of the suits fit me perfectly — I go between U.S. size 4 and 6 which converted to size 2 in Good American, which has its own sizing — and were supportive enough in the chest area without being constricting. While the styles stood out at my local pool thanks to the shiny texture and bright pink and green colors, I loved most that they could double as eye-catching tops this summer. That said, the one-shoulder style is not one you want to skimp on sunscreen for.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
“I’m a fan of Everlane’s basics for their quality and timelessness, so while I already expected to love their swimsuits, I was pleasantly surprised with how well they fit me.
Both the bikini and one-piece felt really comfortable and supportive — something that I struggle with when shopping for swimsuits as I have E cups and a big butt. The deep V on the one-piece was a highlight for me, as the top provided enough support while also giving my boobs a nice push. Extra points for the adjustable straps on both and the wide range of colors to choose from.
Can you tell I’m really into green this season?” — Ebony-Renee Baker, U.K. Fashion Editor
“I’ve always loved one-pieces. In addition to being easier to splash around in (I’ve had my fair share of beachy wardrobe malfunctions), they’re also comfortable.
Andie’s Samoa suit has quickly skyrocketed to top-drawer status, and I’ll tell you why: For starters, the royal blue Lapis hue is beautiful IRL. I love how it gives a pop of color without being super loud. Then, there’s the fabric: The recycled nylon blend is buttery soft to the touch and feels as luxurious as my more-expensive designer swimwear. Lastly, the straps are adjustable, which is always a win for longer-torsoed folx like me.
My last tidbit of knowledge after wearing this during a Memorial Day Weekend beach trip in Miami: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the cutout area — you’ll thank me later.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Market Writer
“I’ve been a fan of anything and everything Girlfriend Collective for a long time now, but this is the first time I’ve tried its swimwear line. My first impression was how beautiful and vibrant the color was.
The material is on the thinner side, so it won’t compress you, but it was also very supportive, which is my eternal struggle as a 38H. Thanks to the brand’s classic soft material that’s made from recycled water bottles, I felt really comfortable — and also I looked good, which is big for someone like me who took a while to accept my body as it was.” — Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
“Since I often rely on bikinis with ample cup support — I’m a 32C — I wanted to switch it up and try a one-shoulder style. However, I was skeptical about how supportive it would be. I’ve previously tried one-shoulder tops, and it always comes out to a 50/50 chance that it works or not. This swimsuit worked, but I could only see myself wearing it while lounging by the water, aka not participating in any strenuous aquatic activities.
Since there are no cups or lining, it was a bit see-through in the chest area under certain lights. In addition, it gave off more of an athletic feel than the flirty aesthetic that I thought it would have, but that’s a personal preference. Nonetheless, it’s a beautifully soft and stylish one-piece to have in your wardrobe. I could imagine myself wearing cutoff shorts or a loose button-up over it when I’m out of the water and grabbing a drink or snacks. The pastel hues match perfectly against the waves for a relaxing, laid-back summer day look.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
“I tried three styles from Eloquii: a tankini two-piece with high-waisted bottoms and a lime green one-piece (both pictured), as well as a white one-piece with mesh detailing. The swimsuits are definitely strong enough to get the job done considering the affordable price, although I wouldn’t say that they are the best swimsuits I’ve ever tried. All three suits had cups in them, but only the white one-piece had removable cups. As someone who really doesn’t need the extra padding, this was a bit frustrating.
Breast cup situation aside, I loved the lime-green color of the cut-out swimsuit, which just screams summer. The tankini two-piece also has a really cool pattern, and I’d wear the halter as a regular summer top. I just wish it was more of a bikini than a tankini and covered up a little less especially in the torso area. I did have to get my roommate to tie the back of the top for me because it was hard to do it on my own. I also had to adjust my breasts occasionally in this one.
My ideal swimsuit is a bikini with a bit of chest support; I’m all about showing my midriff alongside high-cut bottoms. With that said, Eloquii swimsuits are worth checking out. However, I’d implore the brand to make more bikinis and skimpier bathing suit options. I feel like less is more in the blazing summer sun!” — Chichi Offor, Affiliate Associate Writer
“I’ve always been a fan of Aerie for its comfy and affordable selection of undies and loungewear, but I had never tried the brand’s swimwear. When I find a comfortable and stylish bikini, I tend to wear it for years because venturing out into trying out new styles to show off my body during the summer is always a complicated process.
I was pleasantly surprised when I tried this Aerie set on. First, the print is my kind of colorful, merging two neutrals in a fun pattern. Then, there is the top’s double adjustability: Not only can you can adjust the straps like you would with a bra, but the back can also be tied to your desired fit. Lastly, the high-waisted bottom made me feel better about being in a bikini at the beach (low rise is just not my thing) and made for a stylish look in the sand.
Overall, this is a set that I know will likely enter my small bikini rotation for years to come.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
I spend about 75% of my time in sports bras or bralettes (and the other 25% braless), so this summer I was searching for a swimsuit that offers the same comfort and laidback style as my lingerie go-tos.
Aritzia’s Tna swimwear line, which hit stores on June 1, a few months after its first Babaton collection debuted in March, launched just in time. What I like about the mix-and-match collection of solid-color suits and bikinis (including this perfect Bottega Green number) is that they are sporty but don’t feel like you’re about to do laps in your high school pool in gym class.
Unlike traditional halters, Aritzia’s version features thinner straps in the back and is lower cut on the side of the bust, so the perfect amount of side boob pokes out. I wanted a little more coverage on my high-leg bottom, so I sized up to a large, which made me feel a bit more comfortable as this is, I repeat, a very high-cut bikini. Also worth noting: The suits are made of recycled nylon and elastane and contain 50+ Ultraviolet Protection Factor.
Now I just need to find a friend in the city with a pool to take it for a test drive — no laps required. — Carli Whitwell, Director of Editorial Operations
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