Australia is a sport loving nation and January has all been about tennis. While, I don’t mind hitting a ball (rather poorly!) around the court, I have to admit the most interesting thing I find about the game is the evolution of tennis fashion!

Aren’t these lovely ladies a pretty picture in their 1910 tennis frocks? As pretty as they are though, it must’ve been hard to run around the court in a time when no body part was to be exposed.

The changing hemlines of the 1920s saw the tennis dress become a little easier to get around in. I wouldn’t mind wearing this one… just not for tennis!

The 1930s and 40s saw tennis become more fashionable and I think, adorable!. Rita Hayworth looks smashing (pun intended!) in a Peter Stackpole tennis outfit, which I could see gracing the courts these days. While, Joan Perry looks as cute as a button in little puffy sleeves, with a 1940s tennis ensemble.

Ah, the 1950s with it’s belted dresses and full skirts! I love the variety of necklines in what is essentially the same style of dress.

The 1960s, 70s and 80s all saw hemlines rise and resemble more of the tennis outfits we see today. The 1970s one is particularly short!

In more modern days, the tennis outfit hasn’t changed too much from the 60s to 80s but there are women, like Serena Williams, who make more of an individual statement. Designers like Stella McCartney, however, offer a more simplistic approach to getting around the court!

Off all the different eras I think my favourite would have to be the 1950s, but I might be biased when it comes to a full skirted dress! How about you?

Image sources: 1910s; 1920s; 1930s; 1940s; 1950s; 1960s; 1970s; 1980s; Modern