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When it comes to fitness apparel, it doesn’t get more classic than tennis whites. A quick look back at history reveals that during the Victorian era, white tennis skirts came into fashion, although in ankle-length versions paired, mercilessly, with corsets and bustles. Eventually those impractical details fell by the wayside and some of the first modern white tennis skirts hit the grass courts by the 1920s, cut with crisp pleats. Today, the iconic staple has evolved in length (moving above the knee) and fabrication (sweat-wicking materials) but is still an essential part of any tennis kit—or closet in general, since the best white tennis skirts are wearable on and off the court.

The best white tennis skirts combine functional details with style-forward flourishes.

“The white tennis skirt is timeless,” says LA-based fashion stylist Kathryn Gosik. For inspiration, Gosik looks to Venus and Serena Williams (“trailblazers for their athletic fashion and female empowerment”) and influencers such as Bella Hadid, who “often pair white tennis skirts with white crop tops and white sneakers for a monochromatic look.” Whether on the streets or at the net, it’s a versatile fitness essential designed to let you move freely and keep you cool and comfortable. Ahead, we asked the experts for high-performance picks. Here, seven of the best white tennis skirts they swear by.

Designed by tennis champion herself, Venus Williams, this bestselling skort is a top pick for Gosik. “It’s cut from a lightweight performance jersey fabric with UPF 50+, making it perfect for sunny days,” she says. For convenience and practicality, there are “built in mid-compression shorts with side pockets underneath the skirt,” Gosik says. The performance fabric is also sustainably made with recycled water bottles.

Alo Yoga’s sporty basics have gone viral on social media for their figure-hugging cuts and soft fabrics with first-thing-you-reach-for fitness appeal. “The wide waistband of this miniskirt offers a flattering silhouette,” says Hannah Black, the creative director The In Mag who has tracked the rise of technical sportwear in fashion. The fitted shorts under this skirt have wide side pockets without the classic upside-down opening, which makes it easier to store tennis balls. For a pleat-free option, consider the brand’s Match Point Tennis Skirt. 

Outdoor Voices has gained a cult following from fitness fanatics for functional pieces infused with style-forward touches. “Outdoor Voices is one of my favorite women-owned athletic-wear brands,” says Gosik. Their Sport 4” Skort operates more like a traditional tennis skirt with built-in shorts and smart details. “The pleats in this skirt are effortlessly beautiful,” she notes of the style that’s inspired by vintage sportswear, but brought into the future with quick-drying fibers. Gosik notes that whether lunging across the sideline or hurrying across an intersection, the flow of the fabric “creates a perfect A-line silhouette.”  

"Nike is known for their inclusivity and innovative styles," says Gosik. "I love their NikeCourt Dri-Fit Victory skirt. This plus-size tennis skirt comes in sizes XS-4X, has a flouncy overlay and built-in shorts." Additionally, the line’s performance poly fabric is partially made from recycled plastic bottles.

If you don’t like built-in shorts under your tennis skirt, consider Los Angeles Apparel’s streamlined basic. For players who want to hop on the court, this doesn’t provide the same kind of stretch as a performance knit, though the woven fabric reads as a more polished piece for lunch at the club. “This stylish mini features an ultra-mini length and wider pleats for a classic look,” Black says. “Dress it up with socks, loafers, and an oversized sweater tied across the shoulders.”

“Onzie is a brand that designs and manufactures in LA and they create great workout basics,” says Gosik. “I love their White Tennis Skirt since it’s effortlessly chic. I find that having a supportive yet stretchy waistband is key when it comes to high-waisted bottoms.” The compression shorts offer more control on the court while a pocket can fit balls or a cell phone.  

Fashion designer Tory Burch is a tennis player herself so, unsurprisingly, her Tory Sport line includes a variety of well-designed skirts and dresses. Gosik likes the Tech Twill Pleated Tennis Skirt, with navy woven tape trim that sets it apart from all-white basics. “It’s timeless, and the subtle pleats add the perfect amount of depth,” she says. The moisture-wicking performance twill is tailored to fit the body and add the Seamless Short if you want additional coverage.

For a well-priced option, consider Target’s tennis skirt. “It’s amazing affordable at $19,” says Gosik. Black is also a fan, adding that “the A-line silhouette and elastic back waistband offer comfort and coverage without sacrificing style.” Stretch spandex keeps you cool and the knife pleating provides extra movement.

With tennis season comes tennis dressing. To determine which criteria set certain tennis skirts apart in a sea of options, for both performance and style, we asked experts what they look—and wear themselves.