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Roger Federer: Tennis Fashion US Open 2010. Playing it safe and between the legs.

At a recent press event Roger Federer said that Anna Wintour of Vogue Magazine consults with him occasionally on what he wears on court. Really? Maybe he ought to pull someone in from GQ or Details too, pubs that deal with guys.

His US Open look is fine yeah but nothing rock the world about it -- ok I'll admit it's classy like the guy. The shirt would be great with white shorts. Makes you really focus on his tennis though which is the point right? Did you catch the tweener?

For those who prefer an understated and tailored tennis identity though this kit is perfect. Nothing wrong with it, just not much I can say aside from it has a striped collar...woo hoo.

Pictured is the Nike Victory RF Court Mens Tennis Polo $80 dark obsidian (night) or football blue (day) with the signature RF print. His shorts are the Nike Competition men's Shorts $50.

Federer' tennis shoes are the Nike Lunar Vapor Tour Men's Tennis Shoe $120. The night version with the obsidian swoosh are my favorites. They are gorgeous up close. I covet them. This tee is fun too.

Find it all at the US Open, Nike, Tennis-Warehouse and tennis retailers worldwide.

Rafael Nadal: Tennis Fashion US Open 2010 Day and Night. Look out Gotham City.

Like Bruce Wayne and Batman, Rafael Nadal is ready for night fighting in Gotham City.

Day-time color infusion. Check. Standard issue for Rafa  But night-time..what's this? He's going all stealth with sparing dashes of brightness -- small bits of hot lime on his shirt and shoes. Hmmm...I like it though.

Pictured above Rafa wears his day look, the super lightweight Nike Dri-Fit Vamos Court Crew Tennis Shirt $65 in hot lime. This is his US Open day look. His shorts are the Vamos Tennis Shorts (they are available in black and white), $60. The shoes, are the Nike Air Max Courtballistic 2.3, $120.

 

Nadal's evening style is very simply black. Flashes of hot lime add excitement like bright lights on a dark skyline.

This is the first time we've seen Nadal in all black. It's certainly an authoritative color that alludes to stealth beings of the night and a go-to statement for fashionable clubbers in NYC.

All that aside, I'd fear him across the net in this no question. This style is not as friendly as those that have come before. Maybe that's the intention. After all he's never won the US Open and he wants it bad.

Find it all at Nike , Tennis-Warehouse and tennis retailers worldwide.

Tennis Fashion: US Open 2010 Maria Sharapova Day and Night

Maria Sharapova loves to dress it up for the court and her newest designs incorporate fashion trends hitting the streets as well as some of her own mind -- this year a look to the past and nod to the future.

Sharapova has two dresses for the US Open, one for day (more casual) and one for night (dressy). Take a look...a New York City day IS tame compared to a night isn't it?

Sharapova's day dress comes in one color, retro (a blue/green color), rattan and anthracite and is a tad reminicent of something June Cleaver might have worn. I think it's the collar; remember those very elegant "house dresses?"

The Nike Maria Sharapova NYC Day Dress is of course modified to move and breathe with a big game and little touches, like buttons and piping add panache to an otherwise very retro style. I haven't tried it on but it looks comfortable and unclingy. A simple toss it on and go. All DriFit of course, $110.

Sharapova's night dress is another story. She looked fab in it at the Nike event -- very New York and a bit futuristic. The night silhouette has luxe energy with tuxedo inspired lapels and couture design elements like a ruched skirt and seam detail at the bust line.

The Maria Sharapova NYC Night Dress sells for $150, a price that is justified by the amount of detail in this cocktails worthy tennis dress. Check out the inset pics for some of my favorite assets. The deep purple, called "ink," is regal in combination with the black. Really like this one.

 

Left to right above: the collar and bodice front, the back and the skirt overlay.

Find both dresses at Nike, Tennis Warehouse and other tennis retailers worldwide.

Lights on. Lights Out. Nike Kicks Off the US Open with a Star Studded Event.

I'm tardy with this video but mine was quite bad so I had to wait. Last Wednesday night was Nike's big US Open kick-off, Lights On. Lights Out on Pier 54 on the Hudson-- see some post event press room here. The night was gorgeous; only a hint of mist threatened the festivities...and Serena's hairstyle. Someone handed her an umbrella though -- crisis averted. Alas the mist dissipated and the blowers dried the courts.

Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, and Rafael Nadal were the playing pros on hand. Serena was a kind of MC in all black to match her walking cast. John McEnroe was an ump and then player. It was a lot of fun to watch. 

If you've got an hour here's the whole event, otherwise take a look at the shots below to see the line up. Yes that's Bar Refaeli of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue fame, actor Bradley Cooper and Justin Tuck of the NY Giants.

I'll be discussing the fashions soon, but take this as your warm up!

 

McEnroe, Federer, Nadal, Sharapova and Azarenka Chat US Open and Tennis Fashion.

After Wednesday night's Lights On. Light's Out event in NYC the Nike tennis powers that be sat down for a few questions. Listen in to an excerpt (6 mins) discussing opins on the upcoming US Open and tennis fashion:

Is Maria Sharapova possibly one of the most media savvy people out there? No wonder she is the number one earning female athlete in the WORLD!

Let Mac do the trash talkin' for ya.

"What line are you watching pal?" In this game of nicey-nice this shirt lets it fly for you.

Nike is expanding the John McEnroe inspired line of tennis apparel with more shirts, jackets, shorts and accessories. I like this tee in particular. It also comes in white which is generally a lot more sweat forgiving than grey -- if you care.

The line is for men but the tees are fair game ladies, dri fit, so $30 USD. Not a cheap tee but a cool one for sure.

Available at Tennis-Warehouse and other tennis retailers.

Marion Bartoli Shines in Liquid Lime. The first of new Nike for the US Open.

Marion Bartoli flashed an early peek at Nike's take on 2010 US Open tennis fashion last week at the Bank of the West Classic. I like her in this monochromatic combination. Good color for her.

Pictured above she wears the Nike womens challenge glow tank, $50 and challenge knit skort, $55 in liquid lime with blue lacquer.

This is a fresh color take on an outfit that showed up in pink and white earlier this season. Victoria Azarenka wore that version (pic below) to beat Bartoli and later take home the win at the tournament.

Watch for this look further expanded in black and blue lacquer with accents of the same or lime.

I'm personally not a huge fan of the frilled shoulders but they do work well with the lettuce edge on the skort.

Find it at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse.

For those Perennially Pink, Freshness for Your Tennis Game.

Pink, the color of cotton candy, peonies and bubble gum, in all variations is much loved in women's tennis apparel. With its feminine feel and ever flattering tone, built into performance wear it says girl power like nothing else. No matter what the street fashion barometer the color is on court in a wide variety of hues, as solid or accent, especially in team wear. Fall 2010 is no exception.

Bolle's high performance fall Pink Fusion line (above) is hitting stores now with this perennial favorite, a bold,energetic version contrasted with a very bright white.Take note: the high performance group is closer fitting than the company's more fashion oriented tennis line. I like the silhouette carving lines on the dress (racer back and built in bra) and the surprise pop of white in the pleats of the skort. Pretty. A fresh 22 possibilities in the group for getting your pink on.

adidas has a new Barricade 6.0 out  in a pink they call Beauty, $109.00. This shoe is said to run a bit big so order a half size down. Narrow feet do not do well in this shoe.

Also in hot pink is the Roxy Team Competition Dress, a slimming solid color line that forgives a less than perfect mid section with a hip sitting gathered waistline, $60. 

Grab the headband to go with it, $10.

adidas has pink in their adilibria fall collection as well. This one is called radiant pink -- see below right. The cap-sleeve top is feminine yet totally performance oriented. Look for it on Ana Ivanovic in the coming months.  

Nike has a big line of pink (Voltage Cherry) out as well for fall. Pictured left is the Women's Fall Accuracy Top with 3/4 sleeves, perfect for a chillier day.

Team the group with the new Nike Lunar Speed 2 , also in the cherry hue, $115. Narrow feet are happy in Nike.

Jerdog has a fun pink floral out as well if you like a print. At left is their Women's English Breeze Pleats Skort, $49. Pair it with the matching top or coordinating solid.

Think pink. You will not be alone.

Isner Puts His Feet Up as Mahut Hits Grass Again. A Chat with the Tall One.

John Isner took in some R&R this past weekend hitting the Jeremiah Weed Backyard at Daytona's midfield. He relaxed and played ping pong with driver Matt Kenseth before going to work Monday at his John Isner Tennis Camp in Athens Georgia.

Meanwhile Nicholas Mahut checked in at Newport's International Tennis Hall of Fame where he donated his shirt, shorts and one signed sneaker from "The Match" to the museum and began his pursuit of the Van Alen Cup. Back to the grind.

Isner had a little time for questions.

What kept you going physically during your marathon match?

Over the past year I worked really hard off-court on my strength and endurance. I spent a lot of time in the weight room and on field wearing cleats doing sprints, suicides and more to keep my cardiovascular up. I also swam once a week. I don't think I would have performed as well if I hadn't done all that.

Any secrets to what you eat or drink for fuel?

I eat a lot. I'm not stuffing down Big Macs or anything like that;  I eat healthy foods - a lot of them. I like pasta but try to keep a good combination of carbs and protein to fuel my big body ( 6' 9", 245 lbs). For hydration I drink coconut water prior to a match and on court. It's loaded with potassium and electrolytes which help keep me from cramping no matter how much I'm sweating.

What's your on court style?

Well I wear Nike and have for eight years. They did our team uniforms at the University of Georgia and so it was a natural transition when I went pro. They have the best stuff out there; the Dri-Fit is great.

Do you choose what you wear in tournaments?

Nike gives me a new batch of clothes about five times a year. I don't have much of a say in it but I like what they give me.

How much do you hang and play with tennis friends who are the competition?

Mardy Fish and James Blake live nearby in Tampa. It's good to have friends who are also players. We motivate each other. No one wants to fall behind.

Did you compete in tennis as a teen?

Yeah, I grew up in North Carolina and did tournaments in the state and the section. Lots of driving.

Are you going to donate anything from the big match to the Hall of Fame yourself?

I'm not sure of my plans yet.

Give him time..he's chillin and still enjoying his win.

Isner plays with the Prince O3 white racquet.

Wimbledon Tennis Fashion 2010: Serena Williams

And so our number one girl marches on towards the singles title. Doubles is done; surprise #2 today.  I like Serena's tennis dress at Wimbledon. Simple and slimming with plenty of shaping detail most of which you can't see at first glance.

Pictured is the Nike Control Lawn Womens Tennis dress, $80. A mesh lined bra is built in; excellent coverage for an ample chest. Voltage Cherry piping on the armholes, under the bust and near the dress bottom adds energy. The fabrication is all Dri-Fit for performance comfort. Her voltage cherry shorties are Nike Womens Training Compression shorts, $22. 

Serena's shoes (see inset picture) are the Nike Air Max Mirabella 2, $85 with RED lacesand Nike dri-fit pom pom socks (find them at a golf retailer).

The dress is part of a great looking white group, most of which is accented with voltage cherry.

Victoria Azarenka and Na Li have all worn pieces from the group. Pictured here is Azarenka's Maria Sharapova collection Lawn Top,the ruffle cap sleeves add an ultra feminine touch $60.

Find it all at Nike, Tennis-Warehouse and other tennis retailers.

Wimbledon Tennis Fashion 2010: Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal is all Mr. Clean in his Wimbledon whites. Well, tight white top, big muscles...that's about it I guess. I like this top though, the Vamos Lawn Crew Tennis shirt by Nike, $65 in white and light wild mango. It is very close fitting so if you don't care for cling (most of us don't have Nadalesq abs) try sizing up.

There is another  version of this shirt as well (see below*) but Nadal has been wearing the plainer one (right) and based on his predisposition towards routines, he's unlikely to mix it up.

If you love to match, wear the top with the long Vamos Woven short with the matching color swoosh, $60. The zip jacket is $90 and sports a little bull head as well.

Check out  the graphic on the men's Rush and Crush practice t-shirt, $30. Yes that's a pricey tee but it's Dri-Fit and it says legions about your love of the game. Nadal has been wearing it during warm-ups and I've seen it at the junior tournaments.

Find it all at Nike, Tennis-Warehouse or other tennis retailers.

*this shirt is only on Nike.com

Wimbledon Tennis Fashion 2010: Maria Sharapova

More detail working the whites here. Maria Sharapova's tennis dress at Wimbledon is lovely. Something I might wear, finally. I tend to go for sleek and unfussy so this is borderline for me. I love the nine undulating layers of tulle-like mesh and performance fabric. The skirt unfolds like the petals of a flower.

The Nike Maria Sharapova Lawn Tennis Dress is $120 and is designed to sculpt the body and define feminine assets.

This is a cool (temp wise) choice for those hot, muggy days where you want the least on as possible but have to look presentable. The wide straps criss cross in back provide decent uncutting support. The built in bra is quite tight (for good support) and goes beyond the basic shelf offering built in pads/cups for modesty and shapings sake. If you have an ample bust you might want to size up for comfort's sake, or you could take a look at Serena's dress.

Find the look at Nike, Tennis-Warehouse or other tennis retailers.

Wimbledon Tennis Fashion 2010: Roger Federer

When it comes to tennis whites, creating something new and different necessitates sweating the details. Case in point, Roger Federer's style at Wimbledon 2010. Man did we come close to not seeing enough of this one.

Take a look at the inset photos below to see what's going on in this head to toe ensemble.

Everything here is from the new Nike England Collection:

The top is the Nike Victory RF Lawn Men's Tennis Polo, $80. It resembles a short sleeved tuxedo shirt* with pin tucked pleats. The RF insignia is on the sleeve. It looks strict but is all stretch and performance. Ergonomic seams mean that you won't find this shirt bulky at all.

The shorts which do not appear to be available at the moment  are decorated with a fine in-woven pinstripe and gold embroidered swoosh.

The shoes, more signature gold, are the Nike Lunarlite Vapor Tour, $120. Flywire construction makes them light.This particular version will fit a wider foot so give it a try if you have steered away from Nike for that reason.

The headband and wristbands look to be only for Roger but really who else could get away with wearing it all?

Find the looks at Nike, Tennis-Warehouse and other Nike retailers.

* The shirt is a pocketless take on a guayaberas or formal Mexican wedding shirt. Thanks to Tennisidentity reader Robert for this note.

Last blast of electric before Wimbledon. Serena Williams and Na Li at Roland Garros.

These two women were out of Roland Garros a little sooner than I expected so I didn't get to see these new Nike Electric Collection outfits as much as I would have liked. Both were taken down by an eventual finalist, Williams to Stosur and Na Li to Schiavone.

I do have a thing for the marina blue and electric green combo, it's cooling on the eyes and on a hot court. Perfect for summer. Wimbledon's coming so get your color fix now girls.

Serena's dress is the Nike Love Game Clay Women's Tennis Dress with sweetheart neckline and built in bra that offers great coverage, dri-fit fabric and slimming lines.

The pleated hem is fun, not too frilly, $90 USD. If you sweat a lot be aware it shows.

Na Li wore the Nike Love Game Women's Tennis Shirt in Cool Mint with Marina Blue, $50. Built in mesh inserts front and back make this a wearable sleeved style for me. I don't like sleeves in the summer heat but this one might be cool enough.

The skort is the Nike Women's Electric Love Game Skort, $55, which is a fun alternative to a basic white skirt. It's got a two layer construction with a side pleats. Here she is wearing the white with electric green and marina blue underlay.

Get both colors of the shirt (it also comes in marina blue) and the skort and you've got two outfits for a great price.

Other pieces I like from the electric group: the wrap tank, and double strap tank and everything looks great with the Electric Woven Jacket in bright white.

Find the Electric Group looks at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros. Turbo Color Confident.

Count on Rafa to brighten your day. Who isn't mesmerized by the technicolor style that lends such reinforcement to his confidence?

Nadal's top is the Nike Rush and Crush French Men's Tennis Shirt, $60. Strategically placed mesh insures maximum breathability. This top is close fitting and comes only in the neptune blue/turbo green/electric green you see here. The solid white shorts are also Rush and Crush, $60, They look structured and restrictive but are 4 way stretch Dri-Fit for total comfort. I love the contrast between the bright white and energetic color.

Nadal's shoes are the Nike Air Max Courtballistec 2.3 Men's Tennis Shoe, $120 (yikes), in cool grey, neptune blue, white and electric green. They've gotten some great reviews for breathability -- might be a great choice for summer's heat.

You've got to have a lot of confidence to wear this head to toe look (and maybe you've got it or want to look the part).  A less flash-tastic shirt alternative is the Nike Dri-Fit UV Men's Tennis Shirt in solid neptune blue, $35.

Find the looks at Nike, Tennis-Warehouseand other online tennis retailers.

Maria Sharapova Hungry as a Wolf? Her Dress in Paris.

 
Is Maria back? Judging from her win in Strasbourg that might be the case. And if her passion weren't enough, her dress colors are called things like wolf and stealth grey.

There hasn't been a love fest going on in the blogosphere for this newest Sharapova number but girls here is why you might want to give it a try, especially if you don't generally wear tennis dresses. The design is slimming.

Maria is in no need of help in this department but a deep v neck does lengthen the body and the long dark faux wrap cuts a nice waist that is camouflaging of a less than perfect tum. Recall the original Diane von Furstenberg wrap? That's the concept here but in two solids. A built in bra is helpful because I for one don't have a bra that would work with this deep back.

The burgundy/grey combo fabrication is soft and flows creating a nice visual line, the overlayed/lettuce edge bottom pretty and feminine without being fussy frilly. All Dri-Fit, the Nike Sharapova Clay Court Womens Tennis Dress, $110. Cool, slimming sophistication. It would be even more slimming in solid burgundy but hey it's different and who couldn't use a little wolf in their game?

Find it at Nike and Tennis-Warehouseas well as other online retailers.

Roger Federer Haught All Over Again at Roland Garros.

 
He's back...I mean the collared Roger. Who liked the henley on him? Not me - neither hot nor haughty. It made him look less than authoritative. It's odd how a shirt can do that, but it can. This look's a keeper though. The polo top, the Nike All-Court RF Clay Men's Tennis Polo, is clean and classic, ornamentation only on the sleeves and the little RF on the placket, $80 USD. The color, called bluegrass, looks stunning against the red clay. This is RF at his tennis fashion finest. 

The white shorts, his usual more tailored style, look crisp. You can't see them here but there are ventilation panels built in to keep heat at bay. And the shoes, I  LOVE them (click on the image to enlarge). They are the Lunarlite Vapor Tour Men's Tennis Shoe, $120 a dash of modern with the airbrush spray of obsidian on white. Bluegrass detailing pulls in the shirt and matching bandanna. The edgy shoe is a great foil for the more classic style.

And the cherry on top, the All-Court RF N98 tennis Jacket, $90 in bluegrass. He wore it in his interview yesterday after winning round one.

Hopefully we'll see lots more of this rather "haught" looking RF combo.

You can find Roger's style at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Victoria Azarenka Powerful Pretty in Pastel.

 
Although vivid color in every spectral hue has infused on-court fashion for months now, Victoria Azarenka chalked up a pretty change to pastels at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. Pictured here she wears Nike's new Break Point Dress, $80. Asymmetrical in styling detail, it picks up on the one shoulder trend out there but makes the look work under movement with the added striped shoulder strap. The Break Point has a built in bra, mesh panels for ventilation and a pleated under panel at the bottom for added movement and style.

The dress will be available April 1 in medium blue (the periwinkle color here on Azarenka), julep (a mint green) and aster pink. Those who can't/won't wear knock-you-over brights will be thrilled to see this splash of Easter-esq color in the fashion mix.

Azarenka plays with the HEAD YouTek Extreme Pro, MRP $190. Her shoes are the Nike Lunarlite Speed in white and pink, $115.

Available at Nike, Tennis-Warehouse and tennis retailers worldwide.

Li Na on Cruise Control. The Love Game Tank and Skort from Nike.

 
Li Na of China has been wearing this two piece set in Australia and Wednesday she actually did serve up a love game or two (much to Venus William's dismay).

Pictured left on Li is the new Nike Women's Cruise Love Game Tank, $60 and Cruise Love Game Skort, $60. The top is white with sapphire blue, the bottom dark obsidian with accents of sapphire.

The Cruise Collection also offers skorts in blue sapphire or white and a top in sapphire (inset pic) if you prefer a more of a monochromatic line. I would prefer it myself personally. A white skort would be much more slimming for the rec gal with the white top. I would also like the sapphire set -- To each her own however. Na needs no assistance in slimming and her choices coordinate nicely with her racquet.

The top has a built in bra with cups for modesty -- no worries on chilly days. Mesh panels insure ventilation.

Li plays with the Babolat Pure Drive Cortex. Her shoes are the Air Zoom Mystify.

Buy at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal Poppin' Fresh in New Nike Tennis Brights.

In a sea of blue, out pop Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal ablaze in blue's most of complementary colors,  orange. Not surprising these power hitters opted for bold at this year's Australian Open. They are authorities in the tennis temple and natty dressers to boot.

Williams wears the Nike Love Game Women's Tennis Dress in sunbeam and white, $90.00 USD; it looks a hint yellow here (right)  but it's more of an orange. The dri-fit dress has built in support (with cups) and mesh ventilation panels on the back and neatly hidden in the midsection between the stitched design. The neckline is super flattering. This is a good choice for women who hate to play with sleeves but want to stay underwraps. ok comes as separates as well. Cute touch with the white panel inside the hem -- only can see it when you move.

The dress in one of the many pieces in the Nike Sunburst group that mixes a number of styles in sunburst, black and white. Pictured left is the sunburst Break Point jacket, $90. Williams wore the white Sunburst Woven Jacket, $80 on-court first round.

On her feet? The Nike Air Max Courtballistec 2.3 Womens Tennis Shoe, $120, also in sunbeam and white. Her laces? Nike RED, $4.00 (Lace Up. Save Lives.). Her racquet? The Wilson [K] Blade Team.

Nadal is wearing the Nike Rush and Crush Mens Tennis Shirt in orange blaze and white, $60, with the Rush and Crush men's shorts in the same color combo, $60. Everything is Dri-Fit. The shirt has UV protective properties, built in ventilation and chafe free seams. The shorts have a 12" inseam and built in ventilation panels.  His tennis shoes are the Air Max Courtballistic 2.3, $120 in white/black/orange blaze.

Not sure myself about this head to toe ensemble. Certainly love color on the guy -- the more energetic the better. It kind-of works for me. Street fashion is mixing prints these days and here's the trend is in all its mixed-up glory; at least the colors coordinate. Maybe I'll get used to it. The bandana and wristbands, aster pink, $15 and $10 respectively. Picture these on him with a white shirt and black shorts.Now, that's what I'm talkin' about. Hot. 

Nadal's racquet? The Babolat Aero Pro Drive.

Find a retailer or shop for the looks at Nike,Wilson, Babolat and Tennis-Warehouse.

Blue Rendezvous. Roger Federer's 2010 Australian Open Style from Nike.

 
If you're in need of a a little mid-winter escape, take a gander at Roger Federer's tennis fashion for the Australian Open 2010. Blue on blue meets white here and makes me think of the Greek islands -- definitely warm weather colors that are so "easy-pleasey" to these grey weary eyes.

 Federer wears the Nike All-Court Men's Tennis Polo, $80 in Marina Blue and the traditionally tailored looking All Court Men's Woven Tennis Shorts, $60. His tennis shoes are the Nike Lunar Vapor Tour, $120. The shirt, which has a subtle striped pattern woven within the blue, has the little RF symbol under the placket -- yes, they've finally added it for us average Joes! Also now available, is the All Court Men's Tennis Jacket (pictured right), $120, a beauty zip-up warm up, also RF emblazoned. This jacket will look good with anything...go for it.

Roger had a great 2009...there's a lot of discussion regarding 2010. As always time will tell.

Federer plays with the Wilson Six.One Tour BLX. Register to win one here.

Find Federer's looks at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse.

Nike Introduces the Maria Sharapova Collection. Tennis fashion created by a Fashionista + Champion.

Today Nike announced the Maria Sharapova Collection, a line of high-performance tennis dresses and two piece outfits ready to roll out across 2010. Maria for the tennis masses. “It’s really incredible to be able to bring these looks that I love to so many women,” said Sharapova. “I am equally excited about working with the design team at Nike to see how much more innovative we can get crossing fashion-forward designs with high performance fabrics and silhouettes.”

First down the court-way is this beauty center-court dress, $110 USD. It's a lightweight two layer dress Sharapova sketched herself. The base is comprised of a Dri-Fit solid blue slip dress with printed mesh overlay. The mesh incorporates a blue, green and yellow watercolor print that will look perfect in hot, sunny Melbourne. The overlay features a high neckline with ruffled edging. Two rows of elastic define the waistline and cross in the back. See detail right. Watch her discuss the dress here.

Other pieces in the collection include two skorts and performance tanks. One skirt has a Turbo Green top layer with a contrasting Vibrant Yellow base layer while the other skirt features a Cool Mint top layer and a contrasting White base layer. Each piece will retail for $60. The detailing is very feminine.

The performance tops complement the skirts, as one design features a dominant color of Vibrant Yellow with a hint of Turbo Green around the straps, while the other piece is predominantly white with Cool Mint accents. They're listed as the Golden Set Tank and Skort in some places. Does that mean you'll get a golden set (no points lost in an entire set)? If Sharapova wore it she'd get one on me for sure. Four up and coming WTA players will wear the group this year: Kai-Chen Chang of Taiwan, Julia Geoerges of Germany, Anastasia Pivovarova of Russia, and Madison Keys of the U.S.

Her tennis shoes are custom, not available.

Sharapova's racquet? Learn more here. That racquet bag will look great with the new dress.

Find Maria's line soon at Nike and Tennis Warehouse.

A video retrospective of Sharapova's past Slam dresses is here.

Wearing new Nike Holiday, Serena Williams tops the 2009 WTA charts.

Serena Williams recently claimed the prestigious 2009 end-of-year Sony Ericsson Championship title. She ends the year as the world's number 1 female tennis player, both on-court and at the bank. In 2009 she earned $6.5 million in prize money (the largest amount ever earned by a female player in one season).

What she wore to end her big year? New Nike Holiday. The two piece set was a fall nuts and berries color scheme if you will-- like Rafa she always looks fab in big color. The red is not as orange as it appears in the image, it's more true and warm; the draped, wrapped fabric works to nicely soften her muscular frame. 

Details:Top, the Nike Women's Holiday Master Athlete Tank, $65 and bottom, Master Athlete Skort, $65, light hot red with mahogany. The top has a built in light support bra with a length that gives good tummy coverage. All Dri-Fit, UV protective fabric. Other pieces I like in this group are the Holiday 3/4 Sleeve Top also in Mahogany (it's got some nice feminine styling to it), $65 and the Holiday Athlete Tank, $60. 

The new colors go with the Nike Air Max Mirabella with Hot Red, $82.

Serena's weapon of choice? The Wilson [K] Blade Team, strung with Wilson Gut. She carries the Wilson Grand Slam Bag.

BTW guys, there is some great new Nike winter gear for men in the same mahogany brown. I've seen it on Roger Federer. Ladies if you like polos, get this in a small size and pair it with a pleated white skirt. Cute in a very preppy way.

For more info on Serena's big year visit the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour site.

Look to Nike, Wilson and Tennis-Warehouse for more information.

The wearin' of the bull. Rafa Nadal's bull feather light cap.

At last it looks like Rafa will get his own line signature line too. First out is what I prefer to call Rafa's bull-fighter hat, officially named the Nike Bull Feather Light, now available in 100% recycled poly with adjustable dri-fit headband. The Nike swoosh sits on the right side of the visor; $22 USD.

Me'thinks these will be hot. Cooler than RF? You be the judge.  Get yours at Tennis-Warehouse. I don't see it on the Nike site yet but I'm sure it's on the way.

Nike spark reignites Rafa's game in China.

 
Rafael Nadal made a successful return to the court earlier this week with a first round win at the China Open. Always true to color infused style, he wore the Nike Men's Winter Bold Master Polo $60 USD (same style and design as at the US Open) in Green Spark and the Men's Winter Woven Long Short, $55 in Obsidian Navy and White, a very loose and baggy fit short; 23" length to knee, zip and velcro closure.

On his feet, the Nike air max court ballistic 1.3 $120 with green (the NYC worn yellow versions are already on sale). The exact shoe Nadal is wearing in China appears to be custom (or available overseas) BUT a cool version of it is currently at retail, see above. The white headband with the green swoosh isn't out yet either but keep an eye out. I'm sure it will hit shortly. The black and white versions look a little less "package" anyway. I'd go with those to avoid looking like a total wanna be.

Find the look at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse.

Game. Set. NYC. The Women of Nike: Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka and Na Li U.S. Open Style Report.

Serena Williams stepped out in her U.S. Open 2009 style at Nike's Game. Set. NYC. yesterday. Pictured left she wears her magenta Nike Sphere React Cool Athlete/NYC Day Dress, $100. The ensemble includes a glossy black bowling bag emblazoned with pink NIKE lettering and color coordinated shoes, the Nike Air Max Mirabella, $82. 

Her night dress is a color reversed version of the same, black with magenta ruffle. Her dress was inspired by cocktail party attire with soft pleating at the neckline and a starburst pin tuck detail at the back. I didn't get a chance to ask her but I'm sure the jewelry is from her new HSN line, Signature Statement.

We were also surprised by visits from Victoria Azarenka and Na Li who demonstrated a pre-match warm up to the crowd wearing some of Nike's newest lines.

Azarenka wore the taxi cab yellow that Nadal  plans to wear as well. This top is not currently available. There are other versions in the same yellow. The skirt is the women's fall trend woven skort, $55 in black. Flat jeans-like pockets on the back make this look like a all-around skort, not one just for tennis.

Li wore the looser than usual Dri-FIT Fall Women's Athlete Tank, $60 in China Rose and Athlete Women's Skort in black, $60. Check out the cute pleat window at the back of the skort.

Finally last but certainly not least, the lovely, Maria Sharapova, whose face adorned the fence both in and outside the city street tennis court...was absent. Only a glass case filled with her day and night styles called attention to her upcoming looks. Perhaps there was no use promoting her new styles since none of them will be available at retail. That me'thinks is a shame because I really loved most of it. The over-adorned dancing prairie maiden is gone. Enter a fashionable New Yorker. Maria is going to look beautiful. Soft pink with asymmetrical lines in electric yellow for day and deep navy with silver for night. Silver accents in the jacket and headband.

 

 

Find the looks at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse.

Images: Karin Burgess

Game. Set. NYC. The Men of Nike: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Gael Monfils U.S. Open 2009 Style Report.

Roger Federer kicked off Wednesday's Nike Game. Set, NYC. event with an appearance in his U.S. Open 2009 attire. The event was a benefit for a number of  NYC area youth tennis organizations and a chance to show off what's coming up style-wise for the Open. The new  line takes inspiration from the streets of NYC, the setting for the unveiling.

Pictured left, Federer wears a knit Nike Dri-Fit Tennis Polo in bold red with black collar, $65. The shirt boasts an all over embossed dot pattern inspired by the subway signs of New York. The shorts are his standard length, black with zip front and belt loops. The black fabric has a very light herringbone weave. Available (without loops), $50. Federer plans to wear the black with red collar version of the shirt at night matches. His jacket? Likely not available. Not sure why since just about everyone is looking for it.

His tennis shoes? The lightweight flywire supported Nike Zoom Vapor VI Tour Men's Tennis Shoe, $115, Roger's are embossed with a red trophy on the tongue and heel with the number 5. The red on white stitching is especially awesome looking on the day versions. The night ones are black with red. Get yourself or your guy a pair of these beauties.

Rafael Nadal's look for the U.S. Open is inspired by NYC taxi cabs and yellow it is -- can you see whose picture is behind him? The top is the close fitting Men's Fall Double Bold Polo, $60. His shorts, not pictured, are a street like charcoal gray Men's Fall Woven Long-short with a line check pattern, long, light and loose, $55. His teal blue headband and wrist bands add even more pop. "Color is good." said Nadal of his look. All performance is good too and these fit the bill.

His shoes? The new Nike Air Court Ballistec 1.3 white black and yellow, $120.   Love the look in its head-to-toe glory but I didn't mind the hot pink shirt version either.

His jacket will be the Eugene model in yellow with blue stripe -- no word if that will be available at retail.

"Focus and believe in yourself, said Gael Monfils who surprised the kids by slipping in between sessions to hit and show off his style too. He wore a sleeveless Dri-Fit top, $55 in  white with black -- the design picks up the dot pattern as well. It's sharp. His shorts are the men's fall athletic 10" woven short in glass blue, $50.

Monfils will be wearing the same tennis shoes as Nadal.

Find it all (some items not yet available) at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Images: Karin Burgess

Nike Releases New Collection of John McEnroe Inspired Tennis Apparel. Yes, I am serious.

 

Celebrate the man who drew a whole lot of attention to the game when he was the big man on court. Still the main man in my book, John McEnroe today still has a mean game AND blows everyone out of the tennis commentator water.

Just out, Nike tees to show your love. Left the Nike Ace T-Shirt and right, the Men's Zone T-Shirt, both $30 USD (ouch)...but they are Dri Fit and Johnny Mc, and pretty darn cool...That retro movement just keeps on rolling doesn't it? There's other stuff too but these are my favs.

Available at Tennis-Warehouse and soon on Nike.

Tommy Haas' Wimbledon Wardrobe.

Tommy Haas has changed his shirt a few times on the way to the upper echelons of Wimbledon.

Pictured here he wears the new K-Swiss Color Blocked Crew in white and black, $50 USD and Accomplish Short, $35. Mesh inserts in back and under the arms add great ventilation. 

His earlier round alternative was the Accomplish Crew, $30 and his quarterfinal round, the Topstich Polo, $55. Befitting the quarterfinal round, the Polo is a more dressy looking choice, made of performance spandex pique with five topstitched strips across the right chest. Sharp dressed man. 

His hat, the Performance 6 Panel Cap, $22. His racquet, the MicroGel Prestige Mid Plus.

Find the gear at K-Swiss, Head and Tennis-Warehouse.

Image: Haas Sets for a Return, June 29, 2009 courtesy LIFE.

Nike's angels. Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams at Wimbledon 2009.

There's a whole lot of tailored going on at Nike tennis these days, at least when it comes to outerwear.  I'm talking specifically about Sharapova's Wimbledon jacket and S. Williams' coat. Stepping on court both women are buttoned up in fashionably constructed military and business classics.You saw Federer's jacket too.

The jackets however cover two different fit-for-angels tennis dresses. Not an epaulet or stiff detail in sight. Nice contrast.

According to Nike, Maria worked alongside the development team to come up with this dress that combines aesthetic appeal and performance. It certainly is a lot less fussy than her dress in Paris.

Different textures and inset shapes combine to create volume at the bottom of the dress, which enables better motion and easier leg movement. No-sew construction of the shorts and back of the dress reduces friction against the skin and eliminates excess fabric and bulk. It looks comfortable and has some great back detailing.

 Maria’s warm-up jacket is a structured Old World Russia military style providing a striking counter-balance to the free form of the dress.

No word yet on whether or not these pieces will be at retail. It is doubtful based on Nike's track record with Maria-style this year.

Serena's trench coat is a showpiece. This season Nike re-masters it with a nod to a traditional English Macintosh. The detailing includes a double breasted lapel front and English Mac-inspired gun flaps at back which release heat while she warms up.

 The trench is customizable and the bottom skirt can be removed. Serena will wear it two different ways, with an elongated handkerchief hem to conceal her dress underneath, and also as a cropped length biker-style silhouette. She will wear this while walking on and off of the court, as well as for her pre-match warm-up. Hugely doubtful this will be available at retail but it's cool.

Serena’s dress, on the other hand, is about soft tailoring. The beauty is in the simplicity, but viewed up close it has extreme attention to detail. There are saddle stitched seams strategically placed throughout to ensure a great fit. A drop waist elongates the torso, and the bottom hem features a small bustle with mesh box pleats at the back of the dress.

I personally love white on the tennis court and often think that simpler is better when it comes to fashion.

Editor's after-note: Confirmed. Serena's dress is the Athlete Court Dress, $100 available soon at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse. Her coat, Maria's jacket and Maria's dress, just for them.

White, Gold and Glamorous. Roger Federer at Wimbledon.

 Roger Federer's clean Wimbledon style is an ideal match for the traditional look and feel of the prestigious event. A Wimbledon "twitterer" equated his jacket to a Sgt. Pepper kind of look which indeed it is but oh-so-polished in bright white and his usual accent at Wimbledon, regal gold. Altogether it is a bit much for the eyes. It works better in this image without bags and headband.

 The warm-up jacket is inspired by a jacket in the Nike Sportswear line, the M-65. It’s a modern interpretation of a classic military silhouette from 1965. The intricate hand crafting and uniform collar provide Roger with an almost untouchable look as he walks on and off court.

Roger’s polo (the Dri-FIT Court Men's Tennis Polo, $65) is made with moisture-wicking Nike Dri-FIT technical fabric. An embossed herringbone pattern gives the shirt texture up close. It's light and comfortable, quite a beautiful athletically inclined shirt. Nothing heavy about it although the formal look might make you think it is stiff.

The gold accents which begin in and outside  the shirt collar and swoosh continue down the shorts in a style alluding to a sharply tailored tux. The gold is muted, not glittery glam.  

Roger’s Wimbledon outfit is completed with a coordinating vest and trousers (costume even for him), which can be worn in different ways depending on the weather throughout the tournament. They both incorporate Nike Dri-FIT technology that wicks moisture away from the skin. The look is very Roger, refined and regal. Classy to the core. A man on a mission and proof positive you can look powerful in white.

Top and shorts ($50)  will be available at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse. The jacket is custom. Not available. Shoes of gold, Nike Zoom Vapor VI Tour, $115. Bandana, $15.

The calm before the storm. Roger Federer waits in style.

 

Roger Federer waits to play Robin Söderling, who's homeland equates his Roland Garros performance with "dunder och bråk," thunder and lightening. Söderling certainly has a wilder on-court style than the Fed who's look always reflects the calm and precision that is his very intelligent game. Time will tell. Another storm ahead Sunday.

Pictured here, Federer wears the Nike Summer Classic Open Polo, $65 in sterling blue with classic charcoal and accents of team orange. The shirt has a subtle tonal herringbone woven into the body-mapped dri-fit. The shorts are the Summer Woven Short, $45 in classic charcoal, more of a traditional cut short with zip fly and hook closure but all performance. Swoosh bandana, $8.

If you are looking for the jacket Federer has been wearing in Paris, the stunner white one with the RF logo and accents of orange and blue, alas it belongs only to the court's prince. It is a beauty and if it does become available, you my friends will be the first to know.

His new Grand Slam Champions Bag champions bag is available however. The six-pack bag is adorned with the country flags of all of the Grand Slams. The bag offers thermoguard and moisture control protection, and pockets lined with gold for better visibility inside. This is a great feature as little stuff can really can be hard to find in those deep dark pockets, $80 USD.

Roger's stick? Wilson [K]Six-One Tour strung with Wilson natural gut and Luxilon big banger. Find it all at Tennis-Warehouse or visit Wilson and Nike.

Image: Getty Images Sport/Ryan Pierse

Prince players Monfils, Sharapova and Bryan bring it on with raw determination and style.

True to their racquet sponsor's motto, Gael Monfils, Maria Sharapova and the brothers Bryan have been ruling the courts at Roland Garros. Monfils, fueled by Parisian passion, has stepped out with an unbelievable game; determination to chart top again has had Sharapova fighting (unfortunately just went down to Cibulkova); and the Bryan brothers, seemingly untouchable, are driving their way towards an eighth Grand Slam title.

Their collective weapons? All Prince. Monfils is using the new EXO³ Rebel 95, $189 USD (one of the Tennisidentity team switched right over after using this stick only one time), Sharapova and the Bryans are using Prince's O3 Speedport Black, $199. This is a new racquet for Maria who previously used the Speedport O3 white.

On-court style: Monfils wears Nike apparel, the Nike Men's Summer Athlete Sleeveless, $55 in electrolime and navy Summer Athlete Short, $45.

Sharapova, also in Nike, has been wearing a special edition dress made just for her. I'm not sure I'd love all that extra fabric anyway.

The Bryan brothers, always adidas. The shirt, adidas' two toned Men's Spring Competition Zip Crew, $43.99 in cyan blue and black, the shorts, Men's Spring Competition 9" short, $35.99.

Find the looks, racquet to shorts at Tennis-Warehouse, Prince, Nike and adidas Tennis .

Editors note: Stay well Maria. It was good to have you back.

In RF we trust. The Roger Federer tee.

You've got Roger's hat, you can now have his signature Nike RF tee. Available in black and white (shown here), white and black and white and sterling blue, 100% cotton, $40, this is one great looking (and hopefully inspiring) practice shirt.

Be one with the Fed. Tennis-Warehouse carries the tee group. It is not on the Nike site.

Tourna Grip introduces Tourna Tac. Victoria Azarenka takes it to task at Roland Garros.

 

WTA player Victoria Azarenka is the face of the new Tourna Tac grip. Pictured here at Roland Garros you can see hints of the new "tacky" version of the original Tourna Grip. Tourna Tac comes in pink, white and light blue and offers a wet, sticky feel with good moisture absorption in a very soft feel grip. It comes in 3, 10 and 30 packs, $6.25-50.95 USD.  The bros Bryan and Vera Zvonareva also use it.

Looking around the Roland Garros courts, Tourna Grip appears to be the choice of many players. The trademark light blue color and red finishing tape can (sometimes) be seen on the racquets of: Dinara Safina, Elena Dementieva, Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova, Dominika Cibulkova and Alexa Glatch. The company says that about 40 percent of men on the tour use Tourna Grip. I've seen it on the racquets of: Andy Murray, Andy Roddick, David Ferrer, Sam Querry, Giles Simon, Mikhail Youzhny, Dmitry Tursunov, Tommy Haas, Juergen Meltzer and James Blake. Look around and see who else you spot.

We've noticed that Tourna Grip doesn't slip when wet offering great traction when the grip becomes damp or wet in hot humid conditions. The new tacky version takes it one step further -- good for cooler conditions and for those players who simply prefer tacky (many of them women).

Azarenka's style...the top is the Nike Dri-Fit Day Tank in medium blue with with a dash of electrolime as accent. Pair it with the Nike Day Women's Tennis Skirt, $60 which has a very cute, brief pleat at the bottom. She wore the white version in Miami; you've gotta be trim to wear it.

Learn more at Unique Sports, Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Image: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Sony Ericsson WTA Tour

Raphael Nadal at Roland Garros. Pure Passion in Pink.

 

Yes, real men wear pink. Case closed. Howard Fendrich, AP Tennis Writer quoted Raphael Nadal as saying, " It's better than dress the same color every week, no?" Absolutely, we all nod in awe. Rock on. You are the man.

Pictured here in first round Roland Garros action Nadal switched things up again with more than a little dash of the vibrant pink being used fashion industry wide for pop. The top is Nike's Summer Bold Open Polo, light rose with electrolime stripe $60; the shorts, Bold Open Men's Tennis Shorts in charcoal $55; signature bandana $15 and wrist bands $10 in electrolime. His shoes, the Nike Air Max Courtballistec 1.3 classic charcoal vivid pink and white $120 which he appears to own in all color combinations.

I'm not sure many tennis mortals can pull off this look in its entirety without appearing a little presumptuous but grab what you can and what works for your game.

Rafa plays with the Babolat AeroProDrive Cortex.

Find his gear at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse

Image: Getty Images/Matthew Stockman.

Who likes short shorts? We like short shorts. Spotted at a tournament and here on Alona Bondarenko.

 

When it comes to junior tournament play the hands-down outfit of choice among girls is short shorts and a fitted tank. Many manufacturers cut their shorts a little higher on the waist than the girls like so they flip over the waistband and almost everyone has a tag sticking out their back. Kind of funny.

In all honesty low-cut shorts are a better on-court look for most anyone -- they're sleeker and a whole lot hipper than high-risers. Wear them with a longer cut top and you'll have no belly baring problems.

Looking for low cut (not dangerous low but below the navel) proves to be challenging in a sea of shorts but the Dual Knit Sport Shorts by K-Swiss pictured here on Alona Bondarenko ($42 USD) fit the bill. Other performance oriented low cut, short tennis shorts include: adidas Women's Spring Court Short ($29.99), Nike Women's Basic More Power Knit Short ( $45) and Prince Women's Spring Gold Tour Short ($29.99). All have built in compression shorts which make it easy to stow that extra ball when serving. No need to flip over these waistbands girls.

Find the look at Tennis-Warehouse, Nike, adidas Tennis , and K-Swiss.

Image: Getty Images/Clive Brunskill -- Sony Ericsson WTA Tour

Na Li Wears Nike's Slam Group. Court Style in a Beauty Blue.

 

Looking for an instant court style update? Bring on the blue. Na Li of China, pictured above in Madrid, wears the color of the moment in an athletic yet elegant combination from Nike. Li's top is the Women's Slam Athlete Tank, $55 USD in white with medium blue and purple chalk.  The skort is the Women's Slam Athlete in the same colors, $55. This outfit is available in three other color combinations as well. All Dri-FIT poly spandex. Super comfy.

The skort's tamed pleats are what really caught my eye. I love the smooth top over the textured bottom -- a softly modernized version of a tennis classic. The ensemble is absolutely head turning, and that blue? Who does not look good in blue?

Li plays with the Babolat Pure Drive Cortex. Find her look at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse. Her intensity? Sorry not for sale.

Image: Getty Images/Clive Brunskill -- Sony Ericsson WTA

Spotted at a tournament: Nike's New LunarLite Speed for Women.

New from Nike, the hot looking LunarLite Speed in black and pink. This shoe looks razor sharp in combination with an all black or white outfit.

LunarLite foam and Flywire technology combine in a tennis shoe built for speed. The shoe is both super light and supportive. The herringbone tread pattern on the outsole means great on-court traction and translation to cross-training fitness regimes. DragonX in the sole means added durability. Good news for hard-court players who used to burn through their beloved Nikes.

Nike also makes the Lunarlite Speed in a vivid pink/neo turquoise/volt combo that I think has a more junior look to it -- a little less sophisticated, but you be the judge. $115 USD.

Check them both out at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Victoria Azarenka Electric in Electrolime.

 

Victoria Azarenka, aka Vika, will meet Serena Williams Saturday, this time healthy (hopefully), and for the Sony Ericsson Open title.

Vika's gear: Azarenka plays with the Head MicroGEL Extreme Pro with Teflon polymer, $200 USD. Pictured above in Miami she wears the Nike Women's Slam Day Tank, $60, and Skort, $60 in white with electrolime accents. There'a cute cover-up top for this outfit too, the electrolime Nike Women's Trend Cover up, terry with a vivid pink zipper, $60. Sharp. Could she look more color coordinated?

Find a racquet retailer at Head or shop Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Image Matthew StockmanGetty Images. Sony Ericsson WTA Tour

Juan Martin Del Potro. The Gear That Powers His Game.

 

Juan Martin Del Potro rocked Miami by denying world #1 Rafael Nadal the chance at his first Sony Ericsson title. The shorn and sleeveless Argentine is a hot one to watch in 2009. Just last year he rose from top 40 to top 10. The guy's got game (and lots more..those eyes for ex.).

Del Potro plays with the Wilson [K} Six One 95 racquet, $200 USD.  He recently signed a long-term contract with the brand so expect to see him stocked in Wilson from strings to bags for a good long time.

Del Potro's look at the Sony Ericsson includes the Nike Summer Athlete Sleeveless in mint green with classic charcoal and white, $55 and Nike men's summer athlete shorts, 21" in dark obsidian (navy), $45. Bandanna style headband in navy. Nice to see someone still working the exposed biceps.

Find a racquet retailer at Wilson or buy Del Potro's gear at Tennis Warehouse.

Serena Williams Channels Inner Power in Neon Orange.

 When Serena Williams turns it all on you've gotta love her stunning intensity. Pictured here Serena nails a key point at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami.

Colorful, powerful and glam, Serena commands notice, in neon or not. Will she stay at number 1?  Looks like she's got it in her for sure.

Ms. Williams wears the new  Nike Women's Summer Athlete Tank and Skort, each $55 USD, offered to us mortal players in bright coral orange and vivid pink with soft pearl accents. Serena's exact version is not available.

Look for Serena's court-wear at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse. You'll have to find the signature bling elsewear.

Image: Al Bello/Getty Images

Road Warrior. Spotted at a Tournament. The RAFA tee.

  Mine are junior tournament weekend warriors and there are thousands out there across the country. Every weekend, driving, playing, losing, winning, waiting, eating and drinking out of coolers, and driving home again late at night stopping for a quick dinner at the nearest Subway. If your kid wins, you do it again Sunday.

The players are impressive in their focus and drive (especially the teens who are passing up a lot of social time for the game). Some parents are less so but most are simply driver warriors who have given up weekends to "do tournaments."

And so begins an occasional highlight of a junior player's wardrobe item that pops out of the blur that is junior tournament weekends. Check out this dri-fit  RAFA tee. Loved the U-12 guy who stepped out wearing this and the signature headband. $30 USD. at Nike and Tennis-Warehouse.

Maria Sharapova's Look at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.

So nice to see Marie out there again (nothin' wrong with doubles), as always looking stunning in a Nike designed ethereal looking cocktail style skirt and athletic fit top -- loved the pale gold and bright white combo. 

Sorry to report that the new outfit is not/will not be available at retail. This one's for the comeback  girl only --  better luck next time Maria. See you in Miami?

Marion Bartoli Wins in Monterrey Ushering in a New Collection from Nike.

 Marion Bartoli of France took the trophy at the Monterrey Open which concluded Sunday in Mexico. This was Bartoli's fourth Sony Ericsson WTA tour singles title. 

Bartoli wore the Nike women's spring woven skort in white, $50 USD and the fitted, racer back spring seamless tank in vivid pink with white accents. Both pieces are part of Nike's spirited Spring 09 collection which offers a coordinated selection of black, white and that gorgeous pink, sure to cure any pinkaholic's craving. Yes, performance all the way.

This comfy skirt would also look great with the spring open tank, $60 USD which has a very current asymmetrical neckline.  For those who like a little sleeve, this collection has you covered. Very now and I've got to say cheerful; we could all use a little of that.

Next stop Indian Wells.

Buy the new collection at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Image courtesy of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.

V is for Victory. Rafa's Winning Jacket and What the Fed Wore.

 

Rafa stands tall as he is hit with a blast of red powder to promote Nike's V is for Victory Campaign and the iconic Eugene Track Jacket he wore at the Australian Open (see below). The jacket, with 26-degree chevron, front zips and a rib that sits on the collar, cuffs and waist, will be in stores February 6.

On Roger, left, the Australian Nike kit that took him to the finals: the Men's Tennis Polo, $65 USD in concord and white (the white accented version is not available online). Tonal pinstripes add a touch of class to the performance polo. The shorts are the white Nike Athlete Woven Men's Tennis Shorts, $45. Again, Roger's exact model, with blue stripes, is not available online. Super close versions are however, so check them out if you are a fan of Fed's classic/cool style.

Buy at: Nike or Tennis-Warehouse. Items not available online are at Niketown locations.

Top image: Rankin

Bottom Image: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Serena Swings From Artsy to Classic for a Win at the Australian.

 Today Serena took the Australian singles trophy and with it the number one spot on the WTA tour. Her winning dress is the classically styled light photo blue Nike Dri-FIT Women's Day Dress with accents of liquid lime, $90 USD. It is from the OZ Open Collection. She  wore the same dress in white for doubles with Venus, with equally winning results. The dress offers a fitted, every-body flattering cut with sleek lines and softly structured skirt. The wider straps provide nice up-top coverage for the more well endowed woman. It comes in charcoal and vivid pink as well.

Serena wore a promotional version of the dress early on in the tournament (see image below). The print was designed in collaboration with 1/1 studio in Los Angeles, a design company that fuses art and fashion into one of a kind apparel.

To create the print Serena was given a questionnaire and punch card which was connected to software.  The software then interpreted and responded to Serena’s choice of answers and generated designs. The design on the dress is a still of a design which was created and instigated from her input. The dress is made in a Nike performance fabrication that was then digitally printed with classic charcoal and enhanced with the electric neo turquoise. Very cool but one of a kind so no go for us on that one. Find the Day Dress at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Top image: Lucas Dawson/Getty Images. Bottom image: Torsten Blackwood/AFP/Getty Images

 

In Color and Step With Rafael Nadal. More on the Man's Gear.

Rafa's Australian kit apparently has two footwear options, the Air Max Breathe Cage II that I mentioned here on January 27 and the Nike Air Max Court Ballistic pictured left, $120.00 USD -- they run a bit large so go down a half-size when ordering. The shoe includes LunarLite and DragOn X technologies which make the shoes light and durable.

These beauties, of course, go perfectly with the full -on charcoal, neon turquoise and volt color combo Rafa is wearing but would also look really hot with a dark shirt and pair of long white shorts (try the Nadal long check tennis shorts, $55.00); just in case you are hesitant to recreate Nadal's on-court look in its entirety but simply must have a piece of the action.

Check 'em out online at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse.

Synchronized Tennis Anyone? Plus, the 411 on eleVen by Venus Williams.

 

Cool shot ehh? Venus has worn two different styles so far at the Australian. Both are from her signature eleVen line, a fitted lemon yellow dress with hot pink shorties (pictured here) and a more classic white style with yellow trim. Where to buy?  Unfortunately Venus' very affordably priced eleVen tennis line is not immediately available now that Steve and Barry's (the exclusive retailer of the line) has gone under. There are rumblings, however, of a new retailer. I've been told an announcement is forthcoming soon. We'll let you know when and where.

  Images: Ron Angle

Rafael Nadal Dominates in Vibrant Style at the Aussie Open.

I was waiting to see if he'd switch back but no, the sleeves and striking new look are working just fine. Pictured here at the Australian Open Rafa wears the Nike Crew Reinvent Open tee in classic charcoal and neo turquoise, $55 USD. The shirt is made of super soft Dri-FIT fabric in a medium tight stretch fit. The shorts? Nadal Woven Long Checked Short, a surf-inspired dark short with transparent gloss check print -- look really close and you'll see what I'm talking about. The shorts sit stylishly just above the knee and feature side pockets, a Velcro closure and Dri-FIT inserts for a comfortable feel when it's hot.

Nadal's choice of shoe? The Nike Air Max Breathe Cage II which offers durability and support for the man's pounding game. The Nike DraGon cage, the shoe’s definitive characteristic, provides protection against abrasion and support during lateral movements.The shoe offers superior cushioning  and  HeatBlock, which stops court surface heat migration--a nice bonus in 120 degree heat.  There are a ton more great features. Believe me this is one shoe designed for big game in high heat, $115. Complete  the look with Nike Pro Wristbands and bandana in Volt. 

I have to say, Rafa is one fashion forward dude.  According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, right now "... fashion designers [are encouraging] hopeful attitudes with lively colors, while sophisticated, grounded hues address the need for stability in times of economic uncertainty." Is this not Nadal's look? I do feel better watching the guy play... for lots of reasons.

Buy at Nike or Tennis-Warehouse. The shorts are only at Nike retail stores at the moment, but keep checking back online.

Image: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images