While I haven’t played tennis since my days as a camp counselor masquerading as a sports enthusiast, seeing the new Challengers film has me suddenly, deeply invested in the men’s tennis aesthetic.
There’s just something so timeless about the sport’s apparel and general vibe. The unstudied elegance! The worn-in cool! The direct contrast to the affable, mildly dorky aura surrounding the current pickleball craze. (I said it! Don’t come for me!)
Front and center in this tennis style renaissance? The humble tennis shoe.
While the film spotlights the Nike Killshot 2, I’m partial to the brand’s Court Legacy.
Classic with almost a skate style edge, you can dress these bad boys up and down all spring and summer long.
The sneaker: Nike Court Legacy, $70
Honoring a history rooted in tennis culture, the Nike Court Legacy brings you a time-tested staple.
- pebbled upper
- heritage stitching
- retro Swoosh design
Below, five stylish outfits to help you capture the men’s tennis aesthetic:
Monday
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An oversized graphic detail makes the sweater vest — a classic country club staple — more fun and modern.
Tuesday
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- suit jacket: Buck Mason
- suit pants: Buck Mason
- knit polo: Abercrombie
- sunglasses: Walden Eyewear
- belt: Gap
I love a casual suit and sneaker moment. This olive poplin style looks and feels relaxed without veering into sloppy. I love the black knit polo for a grounding effect, but this striped version would look great with the outfit, too.
Wednesday
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- sneakers: Nike
- shirt: Todd Snyder
- undershirts: Gap Factory
- shorts: American Eagle
- socks: Nike
If you’ve seen the movie, you know I’ve taken inspiration for this casual outfit from one very specific scene which had everyone buzzing when the trailer came out.
I know I’m not alone in saying that I love when men pair a button-down shirt with more casual athleisure shorts. It’s just the right high low mix for a casual hang (or something more?! No spoilers!).
Thursday
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I love me some merch, like this “I TOLD YA” shirt released by Loewe (designer Jonathan Anderson is responsible for the characters’ wardrobes in the film) this week.
Not looking to drop $330 on a t-shirt? You can find similar styles on Etsy to help you nail this summer’s men’s tennis aesthetic for around twenty bucks.
Friday
shop the outfit:
- sneakers: Nike
- shirt: Paratodo
- shorts: Indi + Ash
- cap: Todd Snyder
Spending a day in the sun? These sneaks can take you anywhere. Keep your look comfy & casual with drawstring shorts and a short sleeve button up. And stylish sun protection, of course!
More sporty style from SG HQ:
The 2024 NFL Draft: A New Era of Athlete Fashion
Duke’s Jared McCain Wears Nail Polish: Why Does It Bother So Many Men?
