Did you know Badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world? Crazy, right? Living in the US, it's easy to forget that other countries exist, or the impact those countries have on world trends. Badminton is extremely popular in nearly all Asian countries, and many European countries, where dedicated indoor spaces are regularly set up to play them.
Until recently, Badminton was somewhat overlooked in the US - until Gen Z and Millennials started popularizing it. The rise of social media platforms like TikTok, where professional badminton players like @badmintonjack command followings of 1M+, has put the sport in front of new eyes.
Badminton's social media presence, combined with an adjustment to the rules in 2006 which made the game more exciting and easier to score, has lead to a rise in popularity in recent years. Badminton is also quite easy to play (similar to other trending racket sports like pickleball) and the equipment is usually cheap and easy to procure.
One other factor we think is pushing badminton's popularity? It's the perfect opportunity to put together a fun, preppy sport look! Who doesn't love that classical all-white tennis look? Who doesn't want to rock their own show-stopping tennis look?
So let's get into badminton! More specifically: let's get into badminton looks!
Unless you're playing at the professional level (hello, 2024 Olympics!) you're probably not going to need to adhere to any rigorous badminton dress code. Most casual clubs don't have any kind of strict dress code. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering dressing for the sport.
The most important part of your badminton outfit to consider is actually the shoes.
Badminton shoes should be supportive and comfortable—and most importantly, they should be non-marking and kept for indoor use only. Most badminton courts are indoors, and some clubs will be unhappy if you scuff up their clean floors with black soles or track grit and rocks in from outside.
Beyond that, the most important thing to remember is that your attire should be lightweight, sweat-proof, and easy to move in.
Moisture-wicking fabrics and breathable materials are a must: calico (a sub-genre of cotton) is highly absorbent and makes good activewear.
Spandex is a great choice for its flexibility and stretch, and synthetic options like nylon and gore-tex are also popular. For those seeking something natural, try bamboo.
Once you've covered the basics of form and function, it's time to think about fun! Putting together a badminton look is really just an excuse to experiment with making your own cute tennis outfit. Tennis dresses, white tennis shoes, culottes, shorts, skirts, maybe even a black tennis jacket or a tennis vest!
Of course, your personal badminton style will be totally up to you. Maybe you prefer leggings and a tank top - if that's your jam, great!
When it comes to choosing a top, the main thing to keep in mind (for women at least) is support. You want something that will keep everything in place, won't ride up, and won't lead to any unfortunate wardrobe malfunctions.
This top is the perfect blend of form and function. Wide straps, compression fabric, and a built-in shelf bra provide tons of support, while the square neckline and pastel blue color make it look like luxury tennis attire. It has a racerback cut for extra sporty appeal, and it's the perfect length to wear with high-waisted leggings or a cute tennis skirt.
Performance Sports Bra in Black
For those comfortable with showing a little more skin (or if you're looking for a decent sports bra to wear under your badminton t-shirt) this is a nice option. It has thick, adjustable straps, a highly supportive, squeezes-you-tight fit, and a hook/clasp closure that makes getting it off when you're sweaty a piece of cake.
Personally, we love anything high-waisted for sports bottoms. A high waist keeps you covered, tucks you in, and pairs great with a sports bra or crop-top. Beyond that, it's dealer's choice! A fun, flirty skirt is a classic tennis look, but high-waisted leggings make you look sleek and sporty.
This super-cute black tennis skirt has a thick, slimming waistband that keeps it from shifting while you're playing. It comes with cute boy shorts underneath so you won't need to worry about accidentally flashing your undies when you're leaping up to spike that shuttlecock. It's also got a fun, frilly cut that looks flattering on anyone.
Balance High Waisted Leggings in Willow Green
These leggings are made of thick, supportive material that won't stretch too thin when you're bending. They also have a tummy-slimming high waistband, seamless front and - best of all? Pockets!
If you're competing in a tournament or just want to show off your style on the court, you can't go wrong with a dress. A dress gives you a streamlined, professional look that will strike fear into the hearts of your opponents.
A classic badminton dress has a high neck and cap sleeves, with a slightly flared skirt that comes to just above mid-thigh. When it comes to colors and patterns, preppy is in. Bright, bold primary colors, white, stripes and simple, clean lines are in.
When pairing dresses with tennis shoes, keep in mind the cohesion of your overall look. Don't pair black tennis trainers with a pastel dress, and remember that a white sneaker pretty much goes with everything.
Once you've got the major pieces in place, it's time to think accessories. The best accessories for any sport are ones that are functional first. You don't want a lot of stuff getting in your way, catching on your hem, or tangling in your hair.
Headbands are great if you tend to get very sweaty, or have flyaways around the front of your head that need to be kept in place.
Wristbands are also great for quickly wiping away sweat and offer the opportunity to create a matching headband/wristband look.
Cute socks can be fun, especially if you have a very plain outfit and want to call attention to your feet. How about an all-black tennis skirt outfit with black shoes and bright pink socks - fun! You could even match your headband and wristbands to your socks!
While there's no official badminton dress code (at least at the non-professional level) badminton offers the opportunity to explore the world of affordable tennis attire. As long as your clothes are comfortable and breathable and allow freedom of movement, the sky is the limit!
Have fun with it! Nothing will up your game faster than walking onto the court feeling like a total badass, so don't hold back!