27 Ways We’re Taking Preppy Dressing Off-Court

In tennis you won’t get far without fast feet and fancy footwork – so once a player finds their perfect pair of tennis shoes, you’ll rarely see them stray. While performance footwear has made leaps and bounds when it comes to tech, we can’t help but gravitate towards a more retro aesthetic. Channel 70s-inspired nostalgia with the New Balance 327, or the 80s athletic exuberance with the New Balance 574 in its signature mix of suede and mesh.

Need a break from your NBs? Flat shoes like the classic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Hi or stark white Superga sneakers hit the brief without sacrificing everyday versatility (seriously, is there anything a white trainer doesn’t go with?). If your vibe is less on-court and more grandstand glam, a pair of low pumps or ballet flats would make Duchesses Cambridge and Sussex proud.

With your shoes sorted, piecing together the rest of your prep-inspired outfit should flow. The mini has burst back into fashion favour this season, laying the foundation for the flippy tennis skirt to take centre stage. Whether you choose pleats, A-line or a skort (you know, if you’re actually picking up a racquet), a mini skirt is your ticket to mastering modern prep. 

When you think of preppy dressing, what styles come to mind? Crisp shirting, classic knitwear and polo tops, of course. A cotton button-down is a collegiate staple that works all year round – choose a solid shade for ease of wear, or blue and white stripes to really bring it home. Quarter-zip jumpers and sleeveless knit vests channel heritage appeal, while an embroidered polo in breathable pique works just as well with denim as it does the aforementioned mini skirt. Look to prep titans like Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste to tick everything off your shopping list.