Few styles of jewelry feel as relevant today as they did decades ago. Tennis jewelry is one of them. Clean, refined, and endlessly wearable, tennis pieces have earned their place as everyday essentials rather than strictly special-occasion accessories. At Zoe Lev, tennis designs are some of our most popular for exactly that reason, they move effortlessly with the ebbs and flows life. Whether you’re dressed up, dressed down, or somewhere in between, a piece from our tennis collection will upgrade your outfit.
The History Behind Tennis Jewelry
Before we used the term “tennis bracelet,” diamond line jewelry had already become a staple in fine jewelry collections. In as early as the 1920s, jewelers were creating symmetrical rows of diamonds set closely together. The design wrapped seamlessly around the wrist and were often referred to as “line bracelets” or “eternity bracelets.” Commonly favored for their balance, sparkle, and refined simplicity.
Flexibility is what set these designs apart. Unlike structured bangles, line designed jewelry was created to move with the wearer, allowing diamonds to sit comfortably against the skin. This made them practical for daily wear long before “everyday fine jewelry” became a category of its own. Eventually, these streamlined diamond rows began appearing in necklaces, rings, and eventually anklets, expanding the style beyond the wrist.
Trend cycles carried on, yet, tennis jewelry never truly disappeared. Instead, it quietly remained understated, something worn by those who valued timeless design over what was popular at the moment.
Why They’re Called “Tennis” Pieces
The name “tennis bracelet” comes from an iconic pop-culture moment during the 1987 televised U.S. Open. Professional tennis player Chris Evert lost her diamond line bracelet mid-game because the clasp broke. She famously asked officials to pause the match while she looked for it. After that moment, the style became widely known as the “tennis bracelet,” and the name just stuck.
What’s interesting is that the story resonated not just because of the celebrity news worthy moment, but because it highlighted exactly what made the bracelet special. It was delicate, flexible, and comfortable enough to be worn during an active sport while remaining undeniably luxurious. That balance between beauty and practicality is what defines tennis jewelry to this day.
As the style gained popularity, jewelers began expanding the concept into other silhouettes, including necklaces, rings, and more recently at Zoe Lev, anklets.
Tennis Jewelry Today: Modern, Wearable, Essential
Today’s tennis jewelry is less about saving them for special occasions and more about showcasing their versatility. These are pieces designed to be worn daily, layered easily, and styled to your personal preferences. Modern versions focus on clean settings, secure clasps, and proportions that feel effortless rather than too overly ornate.
At Zoe Lev, we approach tennis designs with wearability at the forefront. Our pieces are made with 14K gold and carefully selected diamonds, ensuring they’re durable enough for everyday life while maintaining a refined look. Our goal is jewelry that feels natural, something you reach for without thinking because it simply works with everything.
Zoe Lev Tennis Anklets
At Zoe Lev, we’re all for fresh perspectives and expanding on timeless pieces. One of our newest additions is our tennis anklets. While bracelets remain the most recognizable version of the style, anklets offer a modern, unexpected twist that feels especially relevant today.
Zoe Lev tennis anklets update the well known diamond accessory to shine below the belt. They are designed to sit comfortably at the ankle, adding subtle shine with every step. Each anklet is crafted to be lightweight, flexible, and secure, making them ideal for everyday wear—not just vacation styling or special occasions. Worn with sneakers, sandals, or even heels, tennis anklets elevate an outfit without drawing too much attention.
Tennis anklets are a modern take on a timeless piece. They are refined without feeling formal and eye-catching without being loud. For anyone looking to add a little something different to their jewelry collection, a tennis anklet can add an unexpected touch to a familiar accessory.
How to Style Tennis Jewelry
One of the biggest reasons tennis jewelry has stood the test of time is the designs versatility. Wear one solo for a clean, classic look or stack a couple with chunky gold chains for a more styled and intentional look. Tennis necklaces pair beautifully with simple chains, while tennis anklets add a subtle glow that catches the light as you move.
At Zoe Lev, we see all kinds of jewelry looks. Customers love to mix tennis pieces with personalized jewelry. We’ve seen a diamond row tennis necklace paired with an initial necklace as well as layering a 3 prong tennis bracelet with a delicate gold chain. This blend of classic and personal creates a look that feels thoughtfully curated rather than simply styled.
Because tennis jewelry is inherently symmetrical, it works with all kinds of aesthetics. Whether your style leans minimalist, romantic, or bold, these pieces adapt to your aesthetic effortlessly.
Why Tennis Jewelry Remains Timeless
Building your jewelry collection shouldn’t feel stressful, it should feel the opposite! But, if there’s pressure to buy, opt for a tennis piece because it continues to feel current. They don’t rely on trend-driven design, instead, the appeal lies in its simplicity, quality, and comfort. A well crafted tennis piece doesn’t need embellishment or reinvention, it simply needs to be worn.
At Zoe Lev, our tennis collection represents everything we value as a brand: timeless design, thoughtful craftsmanship, and pieces meant to be lived in. From classic diamond lines to modern anklets, these designs are created to move with you and grow with your style.
Whether you’re building a fine jewelry collection or adding a new everyday favorite, tennis jewelry remains one of the most enduring investments you can make. Subtle, refined, and endlessly wearable, it’s a style that proves true luxury doesn’t have to stand still.
If you’re ready to explore tennis jewelry with a modern point of view, our tennis anklets and diamond line pieces offer an effortless way to bring this iconic style into your everyday rotation.