Tennis Skirt vs Skort vs Dress: Which Should You Choose?
A tennis skirt is a short, flared skirt for court sports; a skort is a skirt with shorts sewn inside; a skirt set pairs a skirt with a matching top; and a tennis dress is a single piece. Choose a skort or a skirt with built-in shorts if you want freedom to move without thinking about coverage, a set for an easy matching outfit, and a dress if you prefer one piece to put on.
What is the difference between a tennis skirt, a skort, a skirt set and a dress?
The names overlap, and you will see them used loosely. Here is how the four main options compare.
| Type | What it is | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tennis skirt | A short skirt, usually flared or pleated, made in stretch fabric | Many now include built-in shorts; check the product page |
| Skort | A skirt with a pair of shorts attached underneath | One garment, so nothing to tuck or adjust |
| Skirt set | A tennis skirt with a matching top, bra or tank | A ready-made outfit in one colour or pattern |
| Tennis dress | A one-piece dress, often with an open or pleated back | Some come with separate or built-in shorts; check the details |
Do tennis skirts have shorts underneath?
Many do. Built-in shorts are a stretchy, close-fitting layer sewn into the waistband so you can lunge, run and bend freely. They also mean you do not have to wear a separate pair of shorts or leggings underneath.
Not every style is made this way, so read the product description before you order. Our range includes more than 90 tennis and golf skirts and more than 110 tennis skirt sets, and the details for each one are listed on its product page.
Which length should you choose?
Tennis skirts are usually short, ending somewhere on the upper thigh. A shorter skirt feels light and sporty and looks classic on court. A slightly longer length gives more coverage and is a common choice for golf, where club or course dress codes may ask for a certain length.
The easiest way to judge length is to look at the model photos and compare where the hem falls. If you are tall, a skirt will sit a little higher on you than it does on a shorter person, so you may prefer a longer cut.
Pleated or A-line: what is the difference?
Pleated skirts have folds around all or part of the skirt. They open and swing as you move, which gives the classic tennis look. A-line skirts are cut wider at the hem than at the waist without pleats, so they look smoother and a little more minimal.
Some styles mix the two, with a flat front and pleats at the back, or a layered, tiered hem. Choose the shape you like seeing on yourself; both are easy to move in when the fabric has stretch.
- Pleated: lots of movement, a sporty classic look.
- A-line: clean lines, easy to dress up or down.
- Wrap or layered: a softer, more fashion-led look.
Why do pockets matter on a tennis skirt?
Pockets on the built-in shorts, usually on the outer thigh, let you hold a spare tennis ball between serves or carry a golf ball, tee or marker. A waistband pocket can fit a key or card. Phone pockets vary in size, so if you want to carry your phone, check the product details or photos.
Pockets are a feature of many styles but not all of them, so look for them in the description.
Can you wear a tennis skirt for golf or off court?
Yes. For golf, pair a skirt with a polo, a fitted long-sleeve top or a light layer, and check your course's dress code for length and collar rules. Skirt sets with a matching top make it easy to look put together on the course.
Off court, tennis skirts are a popular everyday piece. Wear one with an oversized tee or a sweatshirt and trainers for errands, or with a fitted tank and a light jacket for a casual evening. Neutral colours such as black, white, navy and beige are the easiest to mix with the rest of your wardrobe.
How do you find the right size?
Use the waist and hip measurements in our size guide. The waistband should sit comfortably without rolling, and the built-in shorts should not ride up when you walk or squat. If you are between sizes, choosing the larger size gives a less snug fit.
Questions and answers
Is a skort the same as a tennis skirt?
Not quite. A skort has shorts attached underneath by definition, while a tennis skirt may or may not. Many modern tennis skirts include built-in shorts, so the difference is often just the name.
What do you wear under a tennis skirt?
If the skirt has built-in shorts, you do not need anything else. If it does not, wear fitted shorts or bike shorts underneath.
Can I wear a tennis skirt for golf?
Yes, many people do. Check your club's dress code, as some courses have rules about skirt length and tops.
Where do you keep tennis balls in a skirt?
Many tennis skirts have pockets on the built-in shorts, usually on the side of the thigh, sized to hold a ball.
How should I wash a tennis skirt?
Follow the care label. In general, wash in cool water, avoid fabric softener and air dry to keep pleats and stretch in good shape.
Shop: Tennis & Golf · Bras & Tops · Yoga Sets · Find your fit in our size guide · Terms explained in the glossary
