We took a peek into our collection of vintage imagery and historic pattern catalogs to see the vintage tennis outfits we offered as sewing patterns throughout the decades. It was so fun to pair them alongside the modern designs in our range, perfect for wearing on and off the court.

Vintage tennis dress sewing patterns occupy a fascinating place in sewing history, combining fashion, sport and practicality in a way that few other garment types have achieved.

Tennis had long been associated with wealth and social status, but by the early twentieth century the sport had become increasingly accessible. Clubs appeared throughout Britain, Europe and North America, while major tournaments received widespread newspaper coverage. As more women took up the game, demand grew for clothing that combined elegance with freedom of movement.

Throughout the twentieth century, Vogue, Simplicity and McCall's produced hundreds of patterns inspired by the changing world of tennis fashion. From elegant pleated dresses of the 1930s to colourful knit sportswear of the 1970s and 1980s, our patterns allowed dressmakers to recreate the polished look of professional players while making garments that were equally suitable for everyday summer wear.

Sewing your own tennis set from an elastane-blend performance knit is a fantastic way to achieve a professional-looking outfit with the perfect fit. Fabrics containing elastane provide the stretch and recovery needed for unrestricted movement, making them ideal for skorts, leggings, sports bras and fitted tops.

Before cutting, allow the fabric to relax flat for several hours, then use pattern weights and a rotary cutter to prevent distortion. Fit your sewing machine with a stretch or ballpoint needle and choose a narrow zigzag or stretch stitch so seams can flex without snapping. A walking foot can help feed slippery fabrics evenly, while clips are often more effective than pins, which may leave permanent holes.

Avoid stretching the fabric as you sew, particularly around necklines and armholes, and stabilise these areas with clear elastic or stay tape if needed. Finish hems with a twin needle or coverstitch for a durable, professional sportswear finish.