The tennis bracelet has become synonymous with laid-back glamour for decades and is a classic jewellery design spotted everywhere, from gyms to red carpets.
The single-strand diamond design gives off sparkle at every angle yet is understated enough to be worn to the gym. You're not far off if you associate the tennis bracelet with the typical all-white country club ensemble. Though diamonds are not exactly known for being casual, this bracelet style became associated with the sport of tennis beginning in 1970s.
The bracelet began to gain popularity in the 1920s during the flapper era and continued to be popular thanks to its simplicity. From luxury names like Tiffany & Co and Cartier to costume jewellery makers, most jewellers have created their version of this minimalist design.
Despite its simple design, the tennis bracelet can be pretty costly since diamonds are paved along its entire length. The design hugs the wrist, making them supple and comfortable to wear. This is likely why American tennis player Chris Evert began wearing them on court in the 1970s.
The bracelet offers an under-the-radar touch of sparkle yet doesn't get in the way of a serve. At the height of her career, Evert was a celebrity and her fashion choices were often mirrored by fans.
Evert was regularly spotted on court with her diamond bracelet. During one match at the US Open in 1978, she paused the game to look for her bracelet after it fell off her wrist. According to a recount in the Financial Times, when asked what she was looking for during the post-match interview, she casually replied, "Oh, that's my tennis bracelet."
There are strict guidelines when it comes to accessorising for a grand slam match, and the French Open and Wimbledon are known to enforce a strict dress code with minimal accessories. The tennis bracelet's simple design likely contributes to its popularity on the court. Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova have also been seen with versions of this bracelet.
Last month, Evert capitalised on her connection to the tennis bracelet and launched a collection of tennis bracelets in collaboration with jeweller Monica Rich Kosann. The Tennis Bracelet CE collection features several designs, including a twist on the classic diamond-only look where a green tsavorite is added as a nod to the colour of the tennis court.
Announcing the collaboration on her Instagram, Evert expresses excitement at the opportunity to finally put her name to the design she first made famous in 1978. "When I first met Monica, I shared the things I remembered about that day at the US Open in 1978: the green court, the white lines, the dripping sweat of competition, and My diamond bracelet," she says.