An Expert Guide to Tenniscore Beauty, From Milky Highlighters to Headbands
Our take
The resurgence of “tenniscore” beauty, fueled by the cinematic success of "Challengers," feels less like a fleeting trend and more like a natural evolution of the understated elegance we’ve been cultivating. It’s a sophisticated echo of the "French girl" aesthetic, where effortless chic reigns supreme—as exemplified by Kaia Gerber’s early adoption of the look Just Wait, I'll Be Living in Kaia Gerber's French Girl Outfit Once Fall Rolls Around. The emphasis on milky highlighters, sleek ponytails, and minimalist accessories perfectly aligns with the quiet luxury movement, a sensibility that prioritizes quality and intention over overt displays of wealth. It’s a subtle shift from the maximalism of recent years, a return to a more considered and refined approach to personal presentation, reflecting a desire for authenticity and ease. This resonates deeply with a consumer base seeking a timeless aesthetic that transcends fleeting fads.
The beauty aspect of tenniscore isn’t about recreating a specific athlete’s look, but rather capturing the spirit of the sport: discipline, grace, and understated confidence. Think of it as a beauty routine designed for someone who is both actively pursuing their goals and radiating inner strength. It’s a far cry from the heavy contouring and elaborate eye looks that dominated beauty trends in the past. The focus on natural skin, subtle enhancements, and simple hairstyles speaks to a desire for a more authentic and approachable beauty standard. Even the seemingly nonchalant act of carrying a large, statement bag, like Dua Lipa’s iconic Chanel carry Dua Lipa Traveling With a Ludicrously Capacious Chanel Bag Is as Iconic as Airport Style Gets, can be interpreted through this lens – a practical yet undeniably chic accessory reflecting a life in motion. It's about curating a visual narrative of effortless sophistication.
Beyond the immediate aesthetic appeal, the tenniscore trend highlights a broader cultural shift towards a more mindful and intentional approach to style. We’ve seen this reflected in the broader fashion landscape, with a growing appreciation for classic silhouettes, enduring quality, and a rejection of fast fashion. This trend isn't just about mimicking a look; it’s about embracing a philosophy—one that values substance over spectacle, and personal expression over conformity. It’s a move away from fleeting trends and towards a more timeless, personal style, a style that prioritizes feeling confident and comfortable in one's own skin. The color palettes often associated with tenniscore – creams, whites, soft greens, and blush tones – further reinforce this sense of calm and understated elegance, aligning with the broader desire for serenity and balance in a chaotic world. It's a visual manifestation of a desire for a more grounded and authentic lifestyle.
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of tenniscore beauty lies in its ability to tap into a deep-seated desire for effortless sophistication and quiet confidence. It’s a trend that feels both aspirational and attainable, encouraging followers to cultivate a sense of personal style rooted in self-awareness and intention. As we move forward, will this aesthetic continue to evolve, incorporating new elements while maintaining its core principles of understated elegance and intentionality? Or will it fade, replaced by another fleeting trend? It’s worth watching how the principles of quiet luxury and mindful self-expression continue to shape the beauty landscape, and whether tenniscore’s influence extends beyond the court and into everyday life, inspiring a continued embrace of effortless chic and authentic beauty.
Image Source: Getty / Neamov, Creative Crop, Dave Benett and Phot Illistration by Keila Gonzalez
In 2023, "Challengers" ignited an obsession with tennis. Tennis fashion, beauty, home decor, and accessories took over our feeds and created what we now affectionately call tenniscore. The best part? There is no athleticism required. While putting on a tennis skirt can automatically transform you into a sporty aesthetic, it's arguably more fun to tailor your beauty routine to mirror those of our favorite tennis athletes. With this year's US Open just weeks away, it's time to get your tenniscore beauty look down. "This is a high-level sport, so a player's first priority is functionality," hairstylist Dhairius Thomas tells Popsugar. How does this translate to your tenniscore trend? It'll be all about practical updos; fresh-faced, dewy makeup (that may or may not be from sweat); and country-club minimalistic nails.
Keep reading for tips on how to give your beauty routine a tenniscore makeover.
Experts Featured in This Article
Dhairius Thomas is a celebrity hairstylist.
Julie Kandalec is a celebrity manicurist and educator.
Gabi Alvarez is a celebrity and editorial makeup artist.
How to Get Tenniscore Hair
Whether you've been following the sport for a while or have just started to watch, you'll notice a pattern among tenniscore hairstyles. They always keep the hair up and out of the face.
"Tennis players need a style that doesn't obstruct their view," Thomas says. "Traditionally, this usually looked like players putting their hair into a simple ponytail." Still, thanks to tennis legends like Venus and Serena Williams, the "traditional" tennis hairstyle has evolved over the years. "Their use of beads and braids proved that you could craft a signature style in tennis and captivate audiences worldwide."
Think of ways to bring your standard updo to the next level. "These looks can include a classic high ponytail; a half-up, half-down hairstyle; a low bun; or a braided ponytail," Thomas says. "When accessorizing the look, you can't go wrong with a sunvisor or a 360 headband for that classic tennis-chic aesthetic." We love the Favorite Daughter Wide Brim Twill Visor ($48) for an elevated visor look. Another one of our favorite accessories has to be the '90s-inspired wide fabric headband, like the Goody Ouchless Comfort Headwrap ($3), which has already been spotted on a handful of stars off the courts.Stick to formulas that are light and dewy, such as the Rhode Highlight Milk Multipurpose Luminizer ($28), which subtly enhances your complexion. Sunscreens such as the Medicube Sunscreen No Cast Just Glow SPF 50 ($19, originally $22) will also feel more like a moisturizer than an SPF and keep your skin protected from UV rays. If you feel like leaning into a bit more glam, we'd recommend the Armani Dolci Blush ($39) blush that melts into your skin, and a trusty transfer-proof mascara such as the Sarah Creal Back Of The Cab Volumizing Tubing Mascara ($40).
There you have it: the three ways to embody the tennis babe you've always wanted to be. You're welcome.
— Additional reporting by Adelaide Giesey
Ariel Baker is a former assistant editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted. Adelaide Giesey (she/her) is a shopping writer at Popsugar. With over seven years of industry experience, she is an expert in all things beauty and enjoys writing across fashion and lifestyle categories. Prior to PS, she helped shape the beauty verticals at Byrdie, Coveteur, and InStyle.Read on the original site
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