Interview: Yesim Philip, the Woman Behind L’Etoile Sport Luxury Tennis Wear

The best way to fall in love with L’Etoile is to feel it. When your fingers sink into the luxurious pointelle cashmere, or graze over the textured Brazilian fabric you’ll wonder how you could ever play tennis in lycra spandex ever again. Somewhere down the road we have accepted that polyester is ok as long as its breathable. How did this ever happen? Well, after you wrap yourself in one of L’Etoile’s delicious hoodies there will be no going back.

Behind the brand… Yesim Philip, was a former pro basketball player in Turkey and has been obsessed with fine clothing ever since she could remember. After an injury, she gave up the hoop and plunged into tennis. She loved the idea of this lifelong, social sport and her combined passion for clothing and tennis naturally fueled the creation of L’Etoile.

“I loved playing, but hated the clothes. After you have children your body changes. It doesn’t matter what shape you’re in, the post-baby belly just pops out when you least expect it. We cater to all body types and listen to our customers’ needs. The East Coast women might want a longer skirt and the West Coast might ask for a shorter version.”

The L’Etoile customer…
“We find there are two types of tennis players: the casual player, might play for a couple of hours and go to lunch; the athletic player, will be more committed and play several hours each day. Both are busy and don’t have time to change, they may end-up wearing their game outfits all day.”

“We design tennis clothes that can easily transition from the court to lunch to the market. You can feel athletic, chic and not worry that your skirt may be too short.”

Where can we find you?
“We distribute to club pro shops and hotels around the world and can also be found online at letoilesport.com. Being a boutique business, allows us to accommodate small orders and be flexible.”

In an era where the instant, mass-produced and disposable reign, L’Etoile stands out as a measure of timeless feminine luxury. The attention to detail and care given to each garment, will surely elevate your spirit and move your game to a new level. Run, do not walk, to your nearest pro shop and ask them to stock L’Etoile… you will fall in love.