Giant sportswear brands like Nike and adidas are popular for a reason: they consistently release women’s apparel that’s well designed, high-performing and trendy. The only problem? You see it everywhere you go! For anyone looking to really stand out on the tennis courts this fall, your best bet is to shop the lesser known, but no less noteworthy, brands. Here are our favorite new collections from nine small brands making BIG fashion waves in the tennis world.
For lovers of: bold prints
Sofibella
This small active wear brand, in business since 2010, is beloved for its unconventional prints and quirky designs which make a real statement on court. Sofibella’s latest collection is no exception. It features a bold geometric print that looks almost stamped on, trendy detailing along skirt hemlines and tank straps, and fabric offering high-performance technical benefits including stay-dry microfiber, anti-bacterial treatment, UV protection and memory stretch construction. We have to admit that the absence of a logo is also pretty refreshing!
Eleven
Venus Williams is more than just a tennis star with a successful, decades-long career. She’s also a bona fide fashion designer known for shaking up traditional tennis attire. Her brand Eleven reflects her bold taste in fashion. It’s made for players who, like its creator, aren’t afraid of making a strong fashion statement on court and off, by favoring wild prints and unconventional silhouettes. This collection features the gorgeous abstract bonita print – equal parts fun and colorful – contrasted with deep blues, eye-catching oranges and crisp whites. Designs range from trendy wrap skirts and jackets to classic dresses and asymmetrical tops, all made with technologically advanced fabrics.
For lovers of: pretty pinks and purples
Diadora
Ok, so globally speaking, Italian brand Diadora is hardly “small”. More like gigantic. Despite having a massive presence in soccer, running, cycling and tennis in Europe, it’s still relatively unknown in the US. Nevertheless, it deserves a closer look. Case in point: Diadora’s latest women’s apparel collection, which combines femininity with functionality. Think gorgeous purples and pinks, geometric prints, flouncy skirts, form-flattering silhouettes and on-trend detailing like mesh inserts and skin-baring cut-outs. High-performance materials ensure players stay dry, light and agile on the court from one point to the next.
Lija
Founded twenty years ago in Vancouver, Canada, Lija is a women’s lifestyle apparel brand catering to lovers of tennis, golf and active wear in general. The latest collection, inspired by Vancouver’s active lifestyle, is a fusion of its signature high-performance fabric with flattering, body-hugging designs in soft purples and greens. Our favorite is the Lija Ruffle Dress, which is not only gorgeous and comfortable but includes moisture-wicking technology and stretch properties to enhance play.
For lovers of: feminine florals
Tail
For the last four decades, Tail has gained legions of loyal customers who love the brand’s quality fabrics and versatile designs which are as well suited to the court as the club. After all, the athleisure trend isn’t going anywhere. Tail’s Fall collection is playful and sporty, with fitted silhouettes and shorter lengths dominating the release. We’re wild about this chic, bird of paradise floral motif. All pieces offer UPF 50+ protection, high breathability and comfort stretch so you can bring your A-game to the court!
Tonic
We love this small brand’s commitment to creating clothing that allows wearers to “sweat beautifully”. Their strategy? Gorgeously designed clothes made with a fabric that offers sun protection, sweat-management and compression qualities to aid in faster recovery times. Because it’s designed and manufactured in Vancouver, Canada you can feel good knowing you’re supporting a relatively “local” brand. Best of all, it’s all designed in collaboration with Martina Hingis, one of the sport’s most legendary female players. Tonic’s latest collection, with its vibrant colors and prints, would be ideal for your next tennis vacation in a sunny locale.
Lucky in Love
Lucky In Love continues its tradition of combining vivid, bright prints and modern silhouettes to create an effect that’s super feminine and romantic. The Lush Daze collection, which is new for Fall, pairs navy, metallic purple and lavender tones in eye-catching floral prints. Pleats, layers and crisscrossing straps are just some of the detailing we love. Best of all, moisture-wicking technology in the fabric means you’ll stay dry and comfortable during play!
For lovers of: blue hues
Fila
Italian sportswear brand Fila brought back original creative designer Peirluigi Rolando to craft a collection that weaves Fila’s signature red, blue and white tones into fashion-forward, trendy designs for the perfect blend of classic and modern. Sleek silhouettes, eye-catching graphic prints and high-performance fabric combine to create sporty and functional looks.
Bolle
In business for the last 24 years, Bolle continues to release women’s apparel that’s on-trend and high-performing. The new Mystic Hues collection features a gorgeous shade of turquoise paired with a vivid white. Think stripes, solids and a few unique pieces with a cool ombre effect. Complete with UV protection, anti-static properties and anti-bacterial treatment, these pieces are sure to become your favorites for Fall.
There you have it. Nine small brands that we absolutely love. Proof that small might be best of all!
