Elevate Your Tennis Bag

Tennis is experiencing a grand slam of popularity driven by a mix of pop culture, modern athleticism and elevated style. From shows like “Break Point” giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at professional players to celebrity sightings at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, the sport is everywhere. Even brands like Dior and Gucci have leaned into “tenniscore,” creating collections that blur the lines between court-ready and catwalk-worthy. Add in the rise of retro aesthetics, and tennis is clearly more than a game—it’s a lifestyle.

According to the Physical Activity Council, tennis participation in the U.S. has risen steadily over the past five years, with 23.6 million players picking up rackets in 2024 alone. Meanwhile, tennis-inspired activewear—sneakers, pleated skirts and polo dresses—has become the must-have in fashion. A generation obsessed with aesthetics has embraced tennis not only for its health benefits but also for its ability to seamlessly blend sport with sophistication. “The appeal of tennis-inspired fashion lies in its versatility,” says Katie Sigg, Retail Buyer at Sea Island.

According to a report by Women’s Wear Daily, a fashion-industry trade journal, designers are leaning into the “old-money” aesthetics that tennis exudes while updating the look with contemporary silhouettes and innovative fabrics.
“It isn’t just about fashion that’s functional for the game; consumers want to look the part whether they play or not,” shares Sigg. The tenniscore trend is as much about lifestyle as it is about sport.

The trend is not limited to clothing and accessories—it’s shaping the way people view the sport itself. Once considered elite and exclusive, tennis has shed much of its stiff image, thanks in part to younger, charismatic players and streaming shows that highlight the sport’s drama and humanity. With more public courts and affordable gear, tennis has become more accessible, boosting its fashion-forward appeal.

GET THE ADVANTAGE

For those inspired to up their game, whether on the court or in their wardrobe, Sea Island offers a collection of tennis essentials designed for both performance and style. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just picking up a racket for the first time, having the right equipment can make all the difference.

“Start with a high-quality racket,” says Trey Weiss, Director of Athletics at Sea Island. “Choosing the proper grip size, weight and head size provides the player with the best opportunity to achieve a comfortable blend of control, precision and power.” Personalization of your racket with custom grips or stringing is available through the resort’s exclusive racket fitting service.

Weiss shares that the right shoes can make or break your match. “It’s important to have court shoes that provide the stability and grip you need throughout the game.“ Lightweight and ergonomic, the Asics Solution Speed FF 3 offers supreme comfort, traction and security for any playing surface.

“For spring and summer matches, choose apparel designed specifically to keep you cool throughout the match,” states Weiss. “Look for moisture-wicking fabrics with UV protection.” The Cloister Tennis Shop at Sea Island, features the latest in activewear, tennis fashion and state-of-the-art equipment for all. The shop features top brands such as Lacoste, Lija, Peter Millar, Vuori, Lucky in Love and more, providing a stylish yet performance-driven selection for players of all levels.

Whether you’re perfecting your backhand or curating the ultimate tennis bag, tennis is undeniably no longer confined to the court. Its influence can be seen in everything from high-fashion collections to athleisure trends. It has become a cultural movement, offering a winning combination of sport and sophistication that feels right at home in today’s landscape.