Pleated skirts and mesh polos: New Balance and Australian Open’s new apparel range is a colourful take on the ‘tenniscore’ trend

“Designed in equal parts for running around the court and wearing to post-match cocktails.”

Every January, hundreds of thousands flock to Melbourne for one of the world’s most-loved sports events – the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the season brings together an international array of the sport’s brightest stars for a week of sport, sun and style.

In the current fashion climate, the 2024 Australian Open feels particularly relevant. Yes, outfits on and off the professional tennis court have generated buzz long before Coco Gauff’s iconic New York U.S. Open dress in 2019. But something about this year feels fresh. After TikTok popularised the ‘old money aesthetic’ in 2023, it seemed v-neck cardigans and stark white skorts were suddenly everywhere.

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But with New Balance’s freshly launched co-branded Australian Open apparel range, ‘tenniscore’ fashion gets a vibrant, contemporary update. The summer collection is made for athletes and fans alike, designed in equal parts for running around the court and wearing to post-match cocktails. As New Balance’s Apparel General Manager, Jeff Garabedian, says, “Our new AO co-branded line has been created with comfort, durability and style in mind.”

In a sea of typical tennis neutrals, these pieces – available in men’s and women’s sizes – reference the shades of pistachio, canary yellow and navy seen on SS ’24 runways. It’s sports performance gear that you’ll want to wear, even if you don’t understand the difference between a backhand groundstroke and a forehand volley.

“From bold graphics and vibrant colours to clean and classic designs, the AO range caters to diverse tastes,” Jeff explains. “Whether you’re a young fan inspired by the latest trends or a seasoned tennis enthusiast appreciating timeless styles, there’s something for everyone in this exciting collection.”

As for our favourites? The Fashion Journal team is particularly taken by the Coco Gauff top and skirt set, available in both a deep blue and lemon hue. Like other pieces in the collection, it’s subtly match-ready. Paying homage to Coco’s iconic on-court style, the set features playful details like contrast stitching, mesh panelling and a crossover waistband, made in New Balance’s fast-dry sweat-wicking material for summer comfort.

You can choose from updated classics like a fitted polo, lightweight shorts and a timeless pleated tennis skirt, plus an assortment of vibrant unisex sneakers. If you prefer to browse online, the range is now shopable on the New Balance site.

But if you’re planning on being an IRL Australian Open attendee, the collection will also be available at New Balance’s immersive AO retail activation, located outside Rod Laver Arena. For Melbourne locals, you can also find the limited-edition pieces in New Balance’s Melbourne Central and Chadstone flagship stores.

Shop the New Balance x Australian Open 2024 collection here.