Bookish Buys: Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long
Bookish Buys
Inspired by Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long
There’s nothing like a court-side outfit that says you’re ready to play—and ready to glow up your whole life. Inspired by Lulu Gardner, the vibrant, determined heroine of Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long, this look blends athletic energy with romantic comedy flair. Whether you’re serving up pickleballs in Costa Rica or just rallying through your own busy day, this ensemble is your reminder that confidence, color, and second chances never go out of style.
🎾 The Navy and Red Power Exercise Skort and Tank
Strong, smart, and subtly flirty—just like Lulu herself. This bold combo moves with you, whether you’re diving for a ball or diving into a new chapter of your life. The red adds fire and determination; the navy anchors it with calm control. It’s the kind of outfit that reminds you you’re not just in the game—you are the game.
❤️ The Red, White, and Blue Striped Pickleball Paddle
This paddle isn’t just equipment—it’s a statement. Playful and patriotic, it represents Lulu’s balance of passion and precision. Every serve is a small rebellion against self-doubt, every swing a declaration that she’s not afraid to start again, even when life’s volleys come fast and unpredictable.
💙 The Two-Toned Blue Pickleball Hat
Perfect for keeping the sun out of your eyes and your focus on what matters. The dual shades of blue symbolize clarity and calm, echoing Lulu’s journey to loosen her grip and trust life’s bounce. Plus, it pairs perfectly with that post-match glow (or post-plot-twist relief).
👜 The Navy Pickleball Bag
Structured yet stylish, this bag is as reliable as a best friend. It’s where you stash your gear, your goals, and maybe a few snacks—because even main characters need sustenance between sets. Navy makes it classic; the design keeps it ready for both courtside play and cocktails afterward.
🧺 The Custom Name Pickleball Court Hand Towel
Personalized and practical, this towel is a small luxury that makes every match feel special. Just like Lulu’s rediscovery of joy, it’s a reminder to celebrate the little things—your name, your effort, your comeback. Wipe the sweat, reset your mindset, and remember: progress is part of the play.
💛 The Yellow Pickleballs
Bright, bouncy, and impossible to ignore—just like Lulu’s spark. Each serve with these sunshine-hued balls is a nod to optimism, a reminder that even when life lobs something unexpected your way, you can meet it with energy, grace, and maybe a laugh or two.
🌴 The Main Character Energy
From court to coast, this Pickle Perfect look captures the spirit of second chances, sunshine, and self-discovery. It’s confident yet playful, much like Lulu’s slow-burn reunion with Tyler and her rediscovery of passion—both on and off the court. So grab your paddle, adjust your hat, and remember: the real game is learning to play for yourself.
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Bookish Buys: Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long
About Pickle Perfect by Ilana Long:
A second chance at love crashes one woman’s tropical pickleball vacation and serves up an adorkably swoony romantic comedy.
Lulu Gardner only takes predictable shots. After faulting on tennis stardom at eighteen, Lulu, now a thirtysomething single parent, is in control of her game. But when an unanticipated blunder threatens her teaching job, Lulu’s stable, well-planned—okay, boring—world spins out. And somehow, her godparents convince her to join them for a “de-stressing” destination pickleball vacation in Costa Rica. Maybe an all-inclusive picklecation is just the pick-me-up she needs to loosen her grip.
Or it would have been if she wasn’t backhanded by the sight of her high school fling Tyler Demming on the beachside courts. Fresh off the pickleball pro tour, the reigning bad boy of paddle sports is as studly and snarky as ever. Even though his public image took a hit with a ballsy publicity stunt, Tyler seems to be the big shot he’s always been.
But Lulu’s had years to steel herself against his rugged good looks and hypnotic charm. Despite the changes she sees in Tyler since their teenage days, Lulu will have no problem keeping her head in the game and her heart on the sidelines. Or so she tells herself….
