The Story Behind the Tennis Bracelet Trend: Diamonds in Motion
The simple style of the tennis bracelet - a string of small, cut diamonds that comfortably wraps around the wrist – makes it a favorite piece of jewelry that women turn to again and again. It offers a bit of subtle sparkle that works with whatever you’re doing or wearing for that day. It’s so easy to wear that it’s a piece that’s perfect for an active lifestyle. Capucelli is the online fine jewelry store that offers diamond bracelets in a variety of classic designs. Plus, we’ve made diamond tennis bracelets not just beautiful, but affordable!
Introduction
All the way back to the 1920s, the “diamond line bracelet” – a continuous line of diamonds (or other gemstones) set on a simple chain around the wrist – was a popular piece of jewelry because of its classic look. The popular name for it was the “eternity bracelet,” since the ongoing circle of diamonds represented eternal love.
It gained its current moniker (the “tennis bracelet”) at the US Open tennis tournament in the summer of 1978. During play, tennis star Chris Evert noticed that the clasp on her diamond bracelet had snapped open, and it had fallen off her wrist. She considered it her lucky charm and had worn it at all her important matches in the 70s; she asked the referees to stop play while she searched for it. That newsworthy moment resulted in the classic piece getting a new name, one that’s since stuck. And yes, Evert won that particular match!
What is a Tennis Bracelet?
A tennis bracelet is a line of small, cut diamonds set as a slim bracelet that wraps comfortably around the wrist. Its classic, timeless style makes it easy to wear for any occasion, from a competitive tennis match (like the ones Chris Evert played!) to a busy day running errands, to the office or a fancy night out. This simple diamond bracelet is versatile and offers subtle elegance and luxury wherever and however it's worn. Capucelli offers a women’s diamond bracelet to suit any personal style. Besides diamonds, the classic tennis style has evolved to accommodate different gemstones.
The Origin of the Tennis Bracelet
This classic diamond bracelet design became popular back in the 1920s and was commonly called an “eternity bracelet.” The continuous circle of diamonds or other gemstones represented never-ending love and devotion. The simple silhouette complemented the elegant evening fashions of the time.
However, that same sleek piece soon became even more popular for its versatility. It’s comfortable and so easy to wear. It’s never overwhelming, making it an ideal accessory for almost any outfit. When 70s tennis star Chris Evert flashed her own bracelet on the courts at the U.S. Open, it was rechristened the “tennis bracelet.”
Women everywhere have since found that the simple, classic style looks as great with jeans and a t-shirt as it does with a “date night” outfit. And it offers a little bit of effortless style, luxury, and sophistication.
From Tennis Courts to Fashion Runways: The Rise of the Tennis Bracelet
For years, legendary tennis player Chris Evert wore her favorite diamond bracelet when she competed. She considered it her “lucky charm.” So when the clasp broke during the 1978 U.S. Open and it fell off, it’s no surprise that she requested that the competition be paused so she could find it on the courts. She did, went on to win the match, and created a big news story. From then on, the simple piece became known as the “tennis bracelet.”
The fact that the diamond bracelet was worn in such a casual setting opened up all kinds of fashion possibilities. Where once it was limited to fancy evening wear, it became a go-to accessory for almost everything, providing a little bit of luxury for women.
What Makes the Tennis Bracelet So Iconic?
Among bracelet styles, the tennis bracelet has become iconic because of its simplicity, versatility, and elegant design. The classic circle of cut diamonds isn’t new (in fact, it’s pretty much been around since the 1920s). But it took a tennis match to raise its profile to its current level of popularity.
In the summer of 1978, tennis champion Chris Evert was competing at the U.S. Open. She was wearing a simple diamond bracelet on her wrist. It was a personal favorite and a piece that she considered lucky. When the clasp broke, the match was stopped so she could recover it. That media spotlight renamed the simple line bracelet to “tennis bracelet,” a name that has stuck.
The diamond tennis bracelet is comfortable and easy to wear. Women have found that it offers easy sophistication, from a yoga class to the office to an evening look. Having seen it on a tennis player opened up so many style possibilities and has made the tennis bracelet an essential piece.
Timeless Elegance
A big part of the appeal of the tennis bracelet is in its timeless elegance. The classic style is understated, providing subtle sophistication. The mix of diamonds (or other gemstones) easily wraps around the wrist, instantly elevating anything you wear.
Style Versatility
The simple lines of diamond tennis bracelets make them so easy to work into any kind of look. Back in the day, they were limited to wearing with fancy evening dress. Since Chris Evert wore hers at the U.S. Open, it became popular to wear it every day and with literally anything.
Emotional Value
The tennis bracelet was once called the “eternity bracelet,” given as a symbol of eternal love and commitment. Even though the name has changed, the symbolism of an endless circle of diamonds is still significant. That emotional value can apply to romance or any other important relationship.
The Modern Appeal of the Tennis Bracelet
The basic design of the tennis bracelet has been around for well over a century and has remained popular because of its timeless look. Now, in the 21st century, those same clean lines and subtle sparkle of diamonds work just as well with modern styles and even the edgiest look.
The tennis bracelet has kept pace with trends, adapting its original design to include other gemstones and even lab-grown diamonds. It’s a perfect piece for layering or maintaining a fresh, minimalist look by itself.
Conclusion
For decades, women have loved the tennis bracelet for its elegant simplicity and sophistication, its versatility, and that little touch of luxury that the piece adds to their wardrobe. It’s the kind of jewelry that can be worn every day and for any occasion. It looks great with everything, and carries a very special meaning, from romantic love to “you’re very special to me.”
The appeal of the tennis bracelet is timeless among other bracelet styles, making it a wonderful gift idea for an anniversary, birthday, or graduation. Capucelli carries a range of diamond tennis bracelets, some with additional gemstones. No matter what her style is, you’ll find one that she’s guaranteed to wear and love for years to come. Plus, we cut out the middleman, so our prices are exceptionally affordable. Shop our beautiful selection of tennis bracelets now!
