Tennis bracelet — what it is, how to wear and 4 tips for choosing one
At first glance, what could possibly connect exquisite sparkling jewelry and professional sports? Seemingly nothing, yet fashion trends have a way of emerging in the most unexpected places. One intriguing incident on the tennis court not only launched a new fashion wave but forever linked the brilliance of crystals with the world of professional sports. That’s when the iconic tennis bracelet appeared — a refined symbol of elegance and a versatile accessory that matches everything. Today, it is worn on red carpets, at high-society events, and even in sports arenas.
It is slim, shiny, and subtly emphasizes the strength of the wrist.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at what a tennis bracelet is, why it’s always in style, how to wear it fashionably, and how to choose the right one.
What is a tennis bracelet and what does it look like?
A tennis bracelet is a delicate chain evenly encrusted with diamonds or other stones of the same size and cut. Its main distinguishing features are its flexibility, refined symmetry, and secure stone settings that keep the jewelry in place even during active movements.
Unlike bangles or cuffs, tennis bracelets bend easily around the wrist without losing their shape. They are not overloaded with details — no large flashy elements or pendants — and this minimalism is what gives them their charm.
The bracelet’s versatility makes it ideal for any look — from casual to evening wear. It can be worn solo or combined with other more statement jewelry or a watch.
Subtle elegance has made the tennis bracelet a favorite among women worldwide. It has been worn by Princess Diana, Jennifer Lopez, Meghan Markle, Serena Williams, Kate Winslet, and many other style icons.
The bracelet has become a symbol of high class and refined taste — equally fitting for a red carpet outfit or the tennis court.
However, the world might never have discovered the tennis bracelet on fashion lovers’ wrists if not for one unforgettable event that occurred on the court.
Why is it called a “tennis bracelet”?
The history of the tennis bracelet dates back to the 1970s, when, during a match at the US Open in 1978, a thin diamond bracelet slipped off the wrist of the famous tennis player Chris Evert.
Chris considered it her lucky charm, so when it unexpectedly unclasped and fell onto the court, she immediately paused the match to find the piece. Cameras caught the moment, and the situation caused a stir among both the audience and television viewers. All attention was focused not only on the game but also on the elegant piece of jewelry that appeared unexpectedly refined in a sports context. The bracelet was successfully recovered, and the incident was remembered by millions. That moment became a true starting point for the bracelet’s popularity.
Later, Evert admitted in an interview: “I always played wearing it because it brought me luck.” The exact match during which this occurred is still debated, but in the final set she secured a confident victory over Pam Shriver, earning her fourth consecutive US Open title. It’s entirely possible that the lucky bracelet played a significant role.
The incident might not have gained so much attention if not for Chris Evert’s personality and success. She is one of the greatest tennis players in history. Over her career, she won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including seven victories at the French Open — a record among women until the 2020s, later surpassed by Iga Świątek. Evert held the WTA world No. 1 singles ranking for 260 weeks and ended the season as No. 1 seven times. She claimed 157 singles titles and 32 doubles titles and maintained an astonishing singles win percentage of 89.97% — the second-highest in tennis history.
Her style of play was marked by composure and precision, earning her the nickname “Ice Maiden.”
After the incident with Chris Evert, the thin diamond bracelet on a chain became widely known as the “tennis bracelet” (tennis bracelet). Jewelry brands embraced the trend, and the term “tennis bracelet” became synonymous with elegance, understated luxury, and femininity in motion.
Inspired by Evert’s success, other famous tennis players began wearing sparkling jewelry on the court as well. Serena Williams — a multiple Grand Slam champion — was frequently seen wearing one, as was her sister Venus, one of the most influential and decorated players in tennis history. Both women actively promote the idea of self-expression on the court.
The bracelet’s sophistication was also embraced by 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu. As a brand ambassador for Tiffany & Co., she regularly appears in dazzling bracelets both on court and on red carpets.
These athletes showcase not only their brilliant career achievements but also champion the tennis bracelet trend as true style setters.
Secrets of the Tennis Bracelet's Popularity
The tennis bracelet is more than just a piece of jewelry — it's a universal symbol of refined style. Though its story began on the court, it has long since transcended sports. Today, this beautiful bracelet complements both exquisite evening attire and minimalist everyday outfits.
- Timeless elegance. A minimalist design featuring a neat line of diamonds or other gemstones makes the bracelet a refined accent that pairs easily with any clothing style.
- Versatility. It looks equally good with a cocktail dress or a casual look. Thanks to its flexibility and simplicity, it’s suitable for the office, a date, a party, or even a sporting event. Among such universal accessories, each Swarovski tennis bracelet stands out effortlessly.
- A symbol of status and taste. This accessory has long been a synonym for good taste. A thin bracelet adorned with gemstones on the wrist signals attention to detail and self-confidence — without the need for flashy luxury.
- The perfect gift. A tennis bracelet is often gifted on special occasions: anniversaries, weddings, the birth of a child, or career milestones. Such a gift is always perceived as thoughtful and meaningful. It becomes a lasting and memorable gesture.
- A legendary story. Its sporting origin adds unique charm. This is not just a fashion accessory, but an item with a soul and a story — one that is deeply connected to the world of professional sports.
This design of bracelet isn’t a fleeting trend, but a timeless classic — proven by time and loved by millions of women around the world. It embodies elegance, versatility, and subtle style — qualities that will never go out of fashion. And the best tennis bracelets of 2025 are proof that jewelry brands continue to expand their collections with new releases adapted to modern fashion demands.
How to Wear a Tennis Bracelet
The tennis bracelet is an accessory worn with ease and sophistication. It wraps snugly — yet comfortably — around the wrist, without slipping or flipping over. The classic rule is that the bracelet should sit loosely but not so much that it falls off.
Typically, it’s worn on the dominant hand — to enhance gestures and movement.
Still, its versatility invites experimentation. It can be worn alone, layered with other thin bracelets, or paired with a watch. In this case, the watch can be either a minimalist classic or feature crystal embellishments.
For a bold accent, opt not for the classic version, but for a tennis bracelet with brightly colored cubic zirconia stones.
Jewelry with stones of different sizes also looks striking when worn together on one wrist.
Another current trend is pairing crystals with pearls. This combination creates an incredibly feminine and delicate ensemble — perfect for both cocktail dresses and formal office wear.
At formal events, the tennis bracelet lends elegance to your appearance, while in everyday life it adds a subtle shimmer and a touch of status.
How to Choose the Right Tennis Bracelet
To ensure your bracelet is both visually stunning and long-lasting, it’s important to consider four key factors.
Design
From minimalist to more original styles.
- Classic — a single row of clear stones, typically cubic zirconia or diamonds, arranged into a fine “line.”
- Modern variations — two or more rows, colorful inserts, stones of different shapes, or decorative elements.
For instance, a Swarovski tennis bracelet is available in both timeless styles and more contemporary versions featuring geometric details and colored crystals.
Clasp
A historically significant detail: Chris Evert lost her bracelet mid-match due to an unreliable clasp — giving the bracelet its iconic name. Today’s clasps are more secure, but their types vary:
- Classic box clasp — often with an additional safety latch;
- Hidden clasp — elegant but should be tested for durability;
- Magnetic clasp — found in newer models, convenient but better suited for daily wear.
Whichever clasp you choose, always check how tightly and securely it fastens on the particular bracelet model.
Material
Choose based on your style and budget:
- Gold (white, yellow, rose) — statement luxury jewelry;
- Rhodium-plated silver — for a refined shine;
- Rhodium-plated base metal — a more affordable yet attractive alternative.
Whether you opt for gold or platinum, or a more budget-friendly option, each can make your look feel polished and complete.
Size
The bracelet should be 1–1.5 cm longer than your wrist circumference to fit loosely but not fall off during active movement. If it’s too tight, it will restrict motion; if too loose, it may slip off and get lost.
When buying a bracelet as a gift, it’s especially important to know how to determine the correct bracelet size so it’s worn with joy.
The Tennis Bracelet — A Legendary Trend That Has Captured Hearts
The tennis bracelet is not just an accessory — it’s a cultural phenomenon tested by time. It embodies elegance, versatility, and inner feminine strength. With its delicate design, reliability, and rich backstory, this piece remains relevant at every stage of fashion evolution. It’s like the little black dress of jewelry, or an eternity ring — something everyone dreams of owning: always appropriate, always beautiful.
If you’d like to own this timeless and stylish piece, browse our catalog. You’ll find dozens of options — choose and purchase the tennis bracelet that perfectly complements your look, whether for a glamorous evening out, everyday wear, or a business meeting. From classic to contemporary — at DEKA, you’ll find both traditional and unique designer tennis bracelets for any style and occasion.