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Fall/Winter 2009 adidas by Stella McCartney. Pretty, Pretty Performance, May I Have It Please?

Tennistas, here are the details on Fall/Winter 09 adidas by Stella McCartney. Pictured left is the smoked pink Tennis Performance Dress ($130 USD) and visor (not available). This is what the new face of the line, Caroline Wozniacki, will wear at the U.S Open over the line's tennis performance bra ($55) and hot pant ($50). The dress is short but super flattering with its layered scoop neck, dropped waist and flirty tiers of ruffles.

Below right, the CU Tennis Image jacket ($175) and woven pant in dark grape (also comes in light onix/grey). Both pieces have a bit of a sheen to them.

Wozniacki will also wear the Skynde Tennis Shoe in Seed Pearl, pictured bottom, in dark grape and white ($175). This shoe is based on the Barricade V. The Stella version is a dash more elegant and features patent leather stripes, a pearlized finish and an understated gunmetal grey name plate on the heel indicating the designer brand.

I originally saw adidas by Stella McCartney as a country club tennis brand -- you know, for the ladies who play, lunch and shop -- but I'm seeing more and more of the line seeping into high-level junior tournaments as fashion savvy teen girls with a yen to turn heads, snap it up and combine it with basics, going for a stand out on-court look. The line after all is truly designed for high-performance.

Although the stick thin model above would not last a set, believe me, this stuff looks powerful good on healthy, fit women. It's a nice contrast actually, the feminine cuts on super healthy, impressive hitters. Wozniacki will be a good ambassador.

Above is the new tennis performance polo ($68) and skirt ($100). The skirt color is light onix. I've checked them all out; if you like the look, you'll love it at play; gorgeous, lightweight and so unique.

New adidas by Stella McCartney hits retail in August 2009. It's also available in stores at Lane Crawford, Isetan, Harrods, Holt Renfrew, Nordstrom and of course adidas sport performance stores or through adidas and Tennis-Warehouse.

Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark Selected to Wear adidas by Stella McCartney.

 

adidas announced today that Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark will wear fall/winter collection adidas by Stella McCartney beginning at the U.S. Open. Until today Maria Kirilenko was the only WTA tennis athlete allowed to wear the line as a sponsored player. Kirilenko will no longer wear the line.

 Wozniacki, currently ranked No. 9 on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour, has been selected to become the exclusive new face of the tennis line and will be playing in apparel and footwear from the distinctive sport performance collection.

“For me it is essential to wear products that combine performance and style," said Wozniacki. "I need to have breathable apparel and footwear that is lightweight, stable and well cushioned. With the adidas by Stella McCartney tennis line I feel like I have everything any fashionable female tennis player always dreams about: cutting-edge adidas technologies combined with Stella’s unique designs that actually perform. I always play better when I feel good, that is very important to me so I’m really excited about getting out on court in it!”

Stella McCartney comments “It’s very rare for a fashion designer to dress one of the top 10 players in the world. I couldn't be more thrilled and happy to be given that opportunity. Let’s hope this will enhance her performance!!”

Caroline will be wearing key styles from the new fall/winter 2009 tennis collection including the Performance Dress, the Performance Hot Pant and Bra in smoked pink and the Tennis Image Jacket in dark grape (pictured above). She will also wear the Skynde tennis shoe, in seed pearl, dark grape and white, which is built on the renowned adidas Barricade V tooling.

The fall/winter 09 adidas by Stella McCartney tennis collection hits retail in August. Prices range from $175 for the Skynde shoe, $130.00 for the Performance Dress and $175.00 for the Tennis Image Jacket.

Stay tuned for an overview of my favs including a run down of the details on what Wozniacki will be wearing. Love it all -- but that's not unusual.

My Hot-Seller Picks from the 2009 U.S Open Shop.

 

 

The US Open 2009 shop is stocked and ready for the big day. These are my picks for this year's coveted hot sellers. Top left, the Mens Banner NYC Full-Zip Track Jacket, $98 USD; top right, the Women's Banner Full-Zip Track Jacket $90. Both are 100% cotton, high quality jackets. Sewn on detail, rather than printed, make these stars in the shop's outerwear line-up.

Bottom left, the Arch Logo Cap (also in navy), $24 with embroidered detail; and the Infant/Toddler Flag Logo Tee, $18, total cuteness for your future star.

Check out the line of Under Armour branded performance apparel too, obviously useful memorabilia.

Paint Your Game Colorful with Tennis Style FromTail.

Wimbledon is over. Paint the game colorful again with Tail's Tropical Infusion Collection which offers a flattering color blocked graphic of island manderine and turquoise on navy or white. Pictured left is the Tropical Classic Fit Dress, $99 USD. Mesh on the sides and back insures ventilation.

Look too at Tail's just-released Palm Beach Group for some healthy doses of that perennial summer favorite, pink. Bring on the rainbow and strut your stuff. 

Next in line, Tail will release its Nantucket Collection, adorned with little tennis racquets (a nod to the island's signature whale shorts). This group will appeal to the player who loves old style women's court classics but wants updated style and performance. The fabric is technical, moisture managing soft stretch jersey. Cute ball pockets, ehh?  Preppy but not overly so. Top, $59, bottom, $69.

Find the looks at Tail or Tennis-Warehouse.

Shahar Peer and Amelie Mauresmo Usher in New Summer Reebok.

WTA players Shahar Peer and Amelie Mauresmo wore some of Reebok's newest for tennis at Wimbledon. I personally love this line in all its simplicity and comfort.

Pictured left on Peer is a two piece group, the On the Move long bra top, $45 and skort, $40 in white. The set is very similar to the newer to market Summer Move Racer Tank, and Summer Move Skort which are available in cucumber green and lilac (gorgeous color). Similar pricing.

The Summer Move skort has a fun two inch pleat with ruffled edge on the back hemline. The matching open back top has an artistic mesh racer design adding feminine flair to an otherwise fairly straight-forward style.

The new Summer collection also offers a dress and ventilation panel blocked two-piece as well.  (both Summer Club). The collection tops all have the racer back, a super flattering neckline and longer top length.

I played in this line on a particularly hot day and found that, despite killer humidity,  the Playdry fabric really did its job. I never felt overheated or encased in fabric.

Peer's shoes are the Reebok Rematch, MSRP $90 USD and her racquet, the Prince EXO³ Red 105.

The pieces are not on the Reebok site but are available at Tennis-Warehouse.

Image: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Sport, Sony Ericsson WTA

Ana Ivanovic, Winsome at Wimbledon. Win Her New adidas Dress Here!

 

Finally, time for a change! Ana Ivanovic stepped out at Wimbledon wearing the new adidas women's adilibria Wimbledon dress. This is a lightweight, form fitted dress in bright white with touches of the cherry red adidas athletes are sporting this year at All England. It retails for $75 USD and yes Ivanovic's entire Wimbledon ensemble will be available at retail.

Ivanovic clearly loves the artistry that asymmetrical provides; the three angled layers of scalloped stretch tulle add feminine swing and flair to an otherwise straightforward dress. You will no doubt recall the asymmetrical dress she had been wearing since last year. This one is easy all over flattering, slimming with great coverage -- no tugging. All ClimaCool.

Her shoes are the red and white  Barricade V, $105 updated with a playful graphic medley of  triangles, a pattern that picks up the splashes of color on the dress, visor and wrist bands. adidas makes a mid-weight summer competition warm up jacket, $80, that would look awesome over this dress. It also has a touch of the triangle graphic.

Pristine, beautiful, and possibly yours! We're giving away one adilibria Wimbledon dress to someone lucky!  Enter to win by leaving a comment below. Be sure to note your email in the correct field (it will not be displayed). Contest ends Wednesday, July 1 at 9 AM EST. Individuals with U.S. addresses only please.

Buy Ana's look at adidas or Tennis-Warehouse.

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.

New Wilson Tennis Apparel in Performance Fabric x Three.

 

Wilson's on-court spring apparel group incorporates some of the best fabric technology on the market. The three key features: nanoUV which provides built in UV-A and UV-B protection (30+), nanoWIK for breathability, moisture management and quick dry technology, and nanoBAN for integrated odor management through anti-microbial protection. Odor cannot form and build as it does in traditional performance fabrics. Who hasn't thrown something out that's not worn out but simply stinks too much to wear any longer?

Highlights: The women's scoop neck spring slice tank (top right) is a beautiful turquoise with black accents at the bust and across the back, $45 USD -- very slimming when combined with the spring asymmetrical skort (not pictured), $40.00.

The men's collection uses handsome reds combined with crisp white in polos and crews to suit your on-court persona. Pictured top left is a team favorite, super lightweight, lined 9" hard court shorts in white, $40 and the close fitting chili pepper red crew, $40. Mesh panels on both pieces insure optimal ventilation.

New Wilson footwear includes the Tour Spin in versions for men and women. These shoes are lightweight and low to the ground with out of the box comfort. The width will accomodate a wider foot. These are heat management maximized with fabric mesh uppers and nanoWik linings, $99. If your feet get hot when you play, these are for you. Not super snazz like some of the multi-colored shoes out there but classic and comfortable with all the tech built in. The men's pair has some cool-making accents of green in the sole. The women's line offers pink. Priced around $99.

Learn more or buy at Wilson or Tennis-Warehouse. The Wilson site has a helpful size chart and dealer locator.as well.

Svetlana Kuznetsova Wins French Open Title Making Her Grand Slam Total Two. Her Gear.

 

Props to Svetlana Kuznetsova on her trophy win at Roland Garros. This was her second career Grand Slam win. Her first was at the 2004 U.S. Open at age 19. Clearly, despite a few bumpy years, the woman is no fading flower. She won the Porshe Grand Prix at Stuttgart earlier this year (beating Safina there as well).

Kuznetsova plays with the Head MicroGEL Extreme with Teflon, $200. Pictured here she is wearing the new Fila Women's Center Court Cap Sleeve Top, $48 and court skort in pink, $45. For more on the new Center Court collection, click here.

Find Kuznetsova's gear at Fila, Head or Tennis-Warehouse.

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.

Agnes Szavay steps out strong in dynamic new style from Fila.

Agi Szavay stepped out and through Venus Williams at Roland Garros today wearing a sleek new Center Court Dress, $53 USD, from Fila's new Center Court Collection.

The top to bottom asymmetrical lines of pink and white mimic Szavay's dynamic play. The fabric is all performance with mesh inserts down the sides for ventilation. The bra is built in. Delicate (very un-Vegas) gold inserts add glamour to the simple A-line tank style. You can't see the gold here but it's over the shoulder, a very subtle yet elegant touch.

The new women's collection is rounded out with a range of versatile pieces such as a pull on skort with the gold shimmer detailing, sleeveless polo, cami tank, scoop tank and v-neck cap sleeve top. The v-neck and cami tank are super cute.

Get Agi's look at Fila and Tennis-Warehouse.

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

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

adidas Roland Garros Fashion Round-Up. Djokovic, Tsonga, Safina and Verdasco (not yet dressed).

 

  

They are ready! Pictured top left: Novak Djokovic wears the pool Edge Tee ($45 USD), white Edge Bermuda ($50) and blue CC Genius Shoes ($130). Top right: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga wears the same tee as Novak although he plans to wear the pool zip neck Competition Theme polo ($55) in France. His shorts, Competition Bermuda ($50) and shoes, CC Feather ($100).

Bottom left: Dinara Safina  wear a cyan Competition Tank ($45) and white Competition Skort ($45), shoe Barricade V. Bottom right: the buff Fernando Verdasco plans to put on the white Edge tee on the wall ($45) and the black Edge Bermuda ($50), his shoe, the CC Feather ($100). All fabrics are ClimaCool with strategically placed ventilation; ultra buttery awesome adidas.

ShopAdidas or Tennis-Warehouse.

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.

Play With Style in New Eliza Audley. Court Couture for Tennistas.

 

Eliza Audley has just released its Citrus Blend  and Pros Rose tennis groups. This is what I call court-couture. Designed by an avid tennis player looking to bring some zing to her tennis wardrobe, Eliza Audley offers superbly cut court-wear in mid-weight, dri-fit fabric. The colors are sophisticated and the silhouettes tailored, feminine and of course court functional. The design detailing is what makes the line so unique -- upscale style for women who like to dress for their game. The pieces skim the body in a very slimming, forgiving way and both groups offers a coordinating jacket to toss on before or after play. The built in bras include bra cups for modesty. This is the only tennis wear I have ever seen cups sewn into and it's a helpful touch.

The jacket pictured above left runs $128 USD, flip skirt $70 and double strap camisole $72. All are part of the Citrus Blend Collection. The Sheer Overlay Dress from the Pros Rose group, top right, $150, is a work of art with printed sheer netting/tulle over a printed under fabric. It comes as a top and skirt as well, really different and quite striking. Pay attention to the size chart when you order. I usually wear a small but found it too tight in this line.
 
Learn more and find a retailer at elizaaudley. Now at Tennis Warehouse. (June 2009)
Images: DeoneJahnke.com
 

Fila Goes Green With New Fabrication in Personal Performance Collection.

In honor of Earth Day week here in the U.S. Fila has released the new "green" pieces in its Women’s Personal Performance Collection. The group is designed to cross-over between sports including our personal fav, tennis. Good for the wallet (multi-use) and good for the earth.

The new collection encourages sustainable agriculture and recycling by blending bamboo and soy based materials with recycled Poly Spandex and organic cotton in four of the performance pieces.  

The very cute Flower Sleeveless Muscle Tank (pictured left, $50 USD) is cut from screened soft recycled Poly Spandex. Pair it with a black skirt (who doesn't have one of those) and you've got a great tennis outfit that's good to mother earth.

Buy online only at Dick's Sporting Goods in the U.S. beginning in May.

A special Earth Day shout-out to Fila for partnering with American Forests an organization dedicated to tree planting programming globally.

Fetch This Ladies. Chic Court Style for Tennistas.

If you haven't seen Fetch let me introduce you.  Fetch, who's embroidered logo is a feisty little terrier, offers a line of sportwear designed for the tennista who wants their performance style with attitude.The line exudes essences of Juicy lounge style, very laid back and young L.A. 

Quite a bit of Fetch style is for off-court but I loved, loved, loved the Spring 09 Fetch Club Dress (pictured left, $92 nylon/spandex) with the deep trimmed neckline, super flattering for those of us with wide tennis shoulders. The fabric -- built in shelf bra -- skims the body right down to the simply pleated skirt. The boldly striped Mach 6 dress ($110) and Veruca polo ($135) with skirt were also style lover favs.

The Track Jacket ($110) and low-waisted Pant ($95) are spandex fitted and comfy, young and slimming with not a touch of frump or bulk. They also have versions in terry and cotton. Tonal Fetch racquets and name complete the look in a very understated yet slick sort of way.

Check out the whole line at Fetch. They are in select tennis shops only. A retailer listing will be up shortly on the site. Send the company an email if you want it in your local club.

Road Warrior. Spotted at a Tournament. "Just because you couldn't get it doesn't mean it was out."

Bad calls (I won't call it cheating) are a problem in junior tennis and this tee addresses the issue front and back in a matter of fact kind of way.

On the back, "Just because you couldn't get it, doesn't mean it was out." Available in a variety of colors and styles for all ages, this tennis line will make any opponent think twice about less-than fair line calls. 

"Are you sure" tops start at $18.00 USD. They are high-quality 100% cotton from American Apparel. The fitted one is cute for a teen girl.

Visit are you sure ? to learn more or buy.

Pictured is Marielle Williams at the Southern Closed Doubles Championships in Rome, Georgia.

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

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

Chakvetadze and Kuznetsova Debut New Fila Heritage Line at Sony Ericsson in Miami.

  Fila's Heritage performance line has returned, debuting at the Sony Ericsson in Miami. Pictured left, Anna Chakvetadze wears the collection's new cami tank, $50 USD, her personal favorite in the group. The ruching on the center front and thin contrast twist back straps add very current feminine detail. Anna's skort is the navy (peacoat) essenza skort, $44.

Other fave pieces from the Fila old school style Heritage line range include: the cap sleeve tee, $42 (pictured on Svetlana below), the Heritage jacket, $65, a super cute terry zip style with matching warm up pant, $55. White is selling fast at the tourney.

Buy at Fila or Tennis-Warehouse.

Nicole Vaidisova, Red Hot in Reebok.

Nicole Vaidisova has been warming up in Miami wearing this hot little number from Reebok, the women's On the Go Tennis Dress, in red attack and grey.

This is a fitted for the fit dress (read, not forgiving of a less than svelte shape), 23" in length, MSRP $60. The adjustable wide straps cross in the back and provide comfortable support. The bodice offers a built in bra and double layered compression. This dress is a good option for the more amply chested who have avoided shoulder baring thin-strap styles because of lack of support.  PlayDry fabric keeps you cool in the heat.

Available as the "Women's Spring Move Dress" at Tennis Warehouse. It's not on the Reebok site.

Vaidisova's racquet? The New Yonex RDiS 100 midplus.

Caroline Wozniacki's Look for the Sony Ericsson Open and Roland Garros.

More blue from adidas and a beautiful blue it is. Caroline Wozniacki turns to a palette of open sky and clouds for the Sony Ericsson Open and Roland Garros. Pictured here Wozniacki wears the same two-piece combo she has been wearing this year but in a refreshed color scheme. The top is the adidas adilibria tank, SRP $45.00 in Cyan, soft ClimaCool fabric with medium impact bra. It has a fitted, layered look up top and a longer length for good tummy coverage on overheads.

The skirt is the low riding adilibria skort, $50 in white, ClimaCool with seamless inner short, 12" length.

Brenda Cooper, Emmy award winning stylist, says that power colors are the more intense hues on the spectrum and when worn in harmony with your skin tone can positively affect how you are perceived. That said, me'thinks this will do well for CW's game.

Buy at adidas Tennis or Tennis Warehouse.

Ana Ivanovic's adidas Style Confirmed for Sony Ericsson and Roland Garros

 Confirmed for the Sony Ericsson Open, Miami and Roland Garros, Ana Ivanovic will wear the adidas women's adilibria dress, in cyan, SRP $50 USD. This is the same dress Ivanovic has been wearing for a while, asymmetrical v-neck, drop waist, pleats on the shoulder and skirt, ClimaCool fabric -- nice to see the color change though. Blue is a particularly calming color but powerful in its intensity, beautiful in combination with Ana's skin tone.

As noted earlier this year, this dress is best on the truly fit physique sitting right on the hips to fall correctly. You will need to buy shorties.

For footwear Ana will wear the Barricade V, SRP $120.00 in running white, light onix and metallic silver. The shoe is lighter than earlier versions and boasts adiwear, a durable rubber that avoids the early wear-out that is a problem with many soles.

Buy at adidas Tennis or Tennis-Warehouse.

A Fresh Patina for Spring. New Tennis Wear from LBH.

LBH has just released its newest women's tennis fashion group, Patina. This six piece collection showcases fine detailing not often found in sportswear, the dress for example has an empire waist, bead accents and double shoulder strapping. The cobalt (nautique blue) and turquoise colors combine in an ocean like print. LBH fabrics are Scotchguard protected and 50+ UV protective.

Pictured left is the Patina jacket, $108 USD and skirt, $46. Tops in this group range from $49 - $62 and bottoms $46 - $69. Blue is going to be big this spring...

Learn more at LBH or buy at Tennis-Warehouse.

Fila Athletes Strut Their Stuff at the Fila/Trina Turk Fashion Show in Indian Wells

   

Gotta say Fila has some yummy tennis stuff coming up alongside some remakes of Borg style classics. I'm going to HAVE to get the mod floral black top and skirt. Check it out. They've got everyone covered right down to the kiddies. Appearances by Anna Chakvetadze, Marin Cilic (see top right), Agi Szavay and Andreas Seppi (left).

Click Here to Watch. the video clip.

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.

Win an Outfit From Lejay's New Second Skin Collection.

Lejay's black and coral "Second Skin" tennis line is out with ten different coordinating pieces to choose from. This is a really fun looking group for teams or individuals looking to spice up their on-court style. A variety of figure flattering cuts offer every body-type the coverage they desire. Lejay's performance fabrics are lightweight and moisture wicking.

WIN the outfit of your choice from the Second Skin collection by visiting Lejay or Tennis-Warehouse and emailing your size and outfit choice to contests (at) tennisidentity (dot) com. Total retail value caps at $100. The winner will be chosen by random draw and notified on March 16, 2009. U.S. addresses only please. One entry per person. Good luck.

mi adidas are Black, White and Slime. Tsonga's are Black and Neon Yellow. How About Yours?

 Have you seen Tsonga's tennis shoes? He designed them on mi adidas. Previously only available in select adidas Sport Performance stores, mi adidas customization is now online in the U.S. I just cooked up a rad pair of adidas Barricade Vs for myself.

You pick the shoe style and colors for the top, sides, laces, grommets, bars and soles. Everything is custom, down to the shoe size. One foot smaller than the other? Order each of your dogs a different size/width. Toughest part is deciding which of the myriad of color combinations you want. Go wild. I created four designs and then made my choice after looking them over top to bottom with the 360-degree zoom and rotate buttons. You can also have a message printed on the back of each shoe. Mine say FOCUS.

Check it out at mi adidas. Custom Barricade Vs will run you $140 USD; no charge to design. Have fun but my bet is you won't be able to resist the purchase. Very cool.

For info on Tsonga's look above check out our post on Jo-Wilfried.

Cole Haan's New Racquet Bag. Exquisite Style With a Touch of Green.

Maria Sharapova is the face of Cole Haan's new ad campaign and one of their new bags this season is this swish little retro styled tennis bag. The Cole Haan Dylan racquet bag is made of canvas trimmed in chrome-free vegetable leather and is comprised of Bionic yarn containing fibers made from recycled plastic bottles. Each bag incorporates eleven recycled plastic bottles. Nice effort.

The bag hosts 6" and 12" shoulder straps (the 12" is detachable), zip closure tennis racquet holder, cell phone and PDA pockets and lots of monied class. Check/measure your racquet head before you buy. Oversized heads will not fit as the opening is 11" wide and 14" long.

Learn more or find a store at Cole Haan. Retail only for this baby. For the tennista who simply must tote designer, $550 USD.

Lacoste for Women Who Court the Court.

Finally, some of Lacoste's pro tennis wear available, but only some. Pictured left, Nathalie Dechy wears the slimming Racerback V-neck Tennis Tank Top in bright white seamless stretch jersey, $72 USD. Also available is the Short -Sleeved Stretch Pique Collar Blocked Sport Polo $82 (not shown). We've seen both tops on Alize Cornet and Emilie Loit as well. Love them. A version of the Pique Baseball Cap is actually on sale at the moment, $16.99.

The orange skirt, visor and wrist-bands are not available, sorry. The top on Alize, below, is not available either. No whining, let's just be happy with what they have offered up for now. To our friends in France, keep it coming! We want it all. Buy at LACOSTE.

Images: Gianni Ciaccia

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

 

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

Jelena Jankovic and ANTA. Thinking Green With a New Sports Apparel Line.

 

Jelena Jankovic, currently the world's number one on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour, has inked a landmark deal in women's tennis with leading Chinese sports brand ANTA. She stepped out at the Australian Open freshly dressed in ANTA's  patina green shift accented with yellow. It's a sleekly simple design in colors signifying spring's revitalizing effect. They could also symbolize Jelena's strengthened physique and very nice deal -- but that's reading way in.

Where to buy? The good news is that Jelena is going to have her own line (see the shoes below) with a full range of sport products under the JJ name reflecting the fashion sense of the tennis star/designer. The bad news, well, only bad for some of us, Jelena's Australian Open dress is only available in ANTA retail stores in China, Singapore, Vietnam, the Phillipines and Serbia.  The new JJ line will first roll out in Mainland China and pending success, on to the retail shops outside China. Congratulations Jelena.

 

Jelena's signature adorns the back of her new JJ footwear line.

Top image: Sony Ericsson WTA Tour/Getty Images. Bottom image: ANTA

Best Dressed at the Australian Open 2009 -- Tennis Australia's Vote is in

Tennis Australia has just posted its votes for the best dressed players at this year's event. Check out the slide show HERE. I agree completely (although the image of Ivanovic could be more flattering) but think that Rafa and RF should also be included. What do you think?

We've covered many of these looks here at Tennisidentity.com. Type the player's name in our site search bar for more details on their on-court attire.

Shahar Peer Keeps Cool in Reebok's Latest On-Court Designs

 

Shahar Peer wears Spring 09 Tennis from Reebok. Totally technical and well thought out, these are pieces designed to play in when its hot. The Trinergy High Impact Bra top ($50 USD) is a fitted, long length, high performance bra for intense workouts. The high neckline provides coverage and the deep scoop back cools. There is an adjustable detail across the back for custom fit and support. Shelf bra and loose bodice below means this will not cling to a tummy. With the top Peer has paired the OTM Tennis Skirt ($40). It is a semi-fitted skirt with a different but complimenting light graphic print and features an internal compression short. Anti-bacteria, anti-odor, UV protection are built into the Play Dry fabrication of both pieces. Nice cool look and feel for a very hot court down-under.

Find a retailer at Reebok or get Peer's look soon at Tennis-Warehouse.

Image: Sony Ericsson WTA/Getty Images

Fila's 2009 Spring Line Debuts at the Australian. Ladies First.

   

 Agnes Szavay and Anna Chakvetadze are both wearing the Fila spring 2009 Baseline group at the Australian Open. The line is fresh and flirty, in colors fit for bright sun. The Baseline group comes in patina green, black (see on Anna practicing below), white and waterfall. The look is youthfully elegant with its simple lines and accents of a sea inspired print on the skirt, top and jacket collar. Love the pop of the dark jacket against the bright skirt above.

The line runs $48 USD for the skirt, $45 for the top and $68 jacket. There is also a dress, and multiple versions of the top for those looking for more or less coverage in different areas.

Buy at Fila or Tennis-Warehouse.

Elena Dementieva Heads to the Australian Open With a Perfect Record and Big Passion.

 You go girl!  Elena Dementieva heads into the Australian Open having won two for two this year. Pictured left she wears her winning combination from both Auckland and Sydney, January 2009.

The dress and matching visor are from Yonex and are part of the company's new spring collection. We've been told it won't be available until April, so we'll have to just watch the line in action a bit longer. Seems the fiery red dress has channeled some burning passion for the Russian.

Elena's 2008 Yonex dresses are still available at Tennis-Warehouse: Melbourne, Paris and New York. Her stick is the Yonex RDS 001 Midplus.

Image courtesy Sony Ericsson WTA/Getty Images.

Anna Chakvetadze To Carry Wilson and Wear Fila in Australia and Beyond.

Twenty-one year old Anna Chakvetadze, ranked 18 on the Sony Ericsson WTA tour at the end of 2008, has just signed a long term agreement with Wilson. Anna will debut her Wilson [K] Blade Team Racquet and Eco Pro Tour Super Six bag at the Australian Open.

The Russian beauty has also recently signed an apparel endorsement agreement with Fila and will step out in Melbourne wearing the new Fila Spring 2009 Baseline Apparel Collection. More to come on that line which I got to preview in November...

Look for Anna's gear soon at Wilson, Fila and Tennis-Warehouse.

Image courtesy of Wilson.

Michaella Krajicek, Beautiful in Boysenberry

Michaella Krajicek, of the Netherlands, caught our eye wearing K-Swiss down-under at the ASB classic in Auckland recently. Purple and black together, unpredictably lovely.

This little combo pairs the K-Swiss Women's Winter Sport top in boysenberry, $39.99 USD (also in tidal wave blue) and the super flattering K-Swiss Women's Winter Pleated Skort in black, $39.99 (this skirt also comes in white and tidal wave blue) The pleats on this skort are centered front and back so you get the tailored effect without adding bulk at the hips. UltraCel fabric ensures you stay cool and dry while you play. The visor pulls it all together. The hair...that's a bit harder. 

Get Michaella's look now at K-Swiss or Tennis-Warehouse. Both items have been out for a few weeks now so good luck.

Image: Getty Images

Musings On Tennis Court-drobes Today and Tomorrow.

Looking back at 2008's on-court styles, both pro and recreational, it is clear that there is truly no across the board "court-drobe," only strong individual opinions as to what works for game-time and image.  Aside from whites-only restrictions, some players are strongly influenced by what the top pros are wearing. Others look for high-fashion influences or designs that express their personalities through color and print. Some still see tennis as akin to a general workout and dress weight-room accordingly.

Most everyone is looking for performance however, and new fabrications that move with every twist and turn, wick moisture, prevent bacterial growth and offer protection from the sun have taken over the market. There are of course aberrations. Recent trips to regional USTA tournaments indicate that the 100% cotton tee is not dead, especially among male teens who use the shirt to communicate attitude not necessarily related to the game

Sneak peeks at 2009 tennis lines indicate that the pattern will continue and court attire will evolve with the same varied consumer interests in mind. Fila plans to offer a full line of retro feel attire that takes the company back to its tennis roots and will certainly appeal to those who love the look of Borg (minus the super short shorts). adidas and Nike have great looking performance collections planned with color and cut defining style. The power house apparel players look to be taking a less risky mass appeal path (driven of course by the top players), leaving the bold graphics, stripes, checks, florals, paisleys and animal prints to the smaller tennis vendors who will capture this group whose desire to express themselves is strong.

Tennis clothes do get tired after a lot of play and a little tennis shopping pick-me-up can be a good thing. Some lucky people play so much they simply need a lot of tennis clothes. Who doesn't feel their best in something fresh? Does this feeling make us play better? Will wearing Sharapova/Federer's Slam gear make us hit a better ball? Did your princess costume make you feel like the real deal? It certainly doesn't hurt and with a game as mental as tennis, anything that helps the mind-set is a good thing.

There is a great variety out there and as 2009 unfolds, we'll let you know what rolls out for the courts. You decide what will work for your good game and style, whatever it is.

"Shock" The Court With A New Line From Bollé

Give your look a shot of adrenaline with something from Bollé's new Pink Shock Group. Pictured here, left, is the sorbet-delicious women's Shock Striped Tank, $44.99 USD. With the flattering wrapped bustline, fitted bodice and key-hole back this is a stunner. Pair it with the black Shock Wrap Skirt or Shock Solid Skort in the same pink, both $44.99, or add it to your existing court-drobe; any black or white skirt you already own would work well with it too. The Shock Court Tank, right, $39.99 offers coverage seekers, just that. It also comes in pink with black accents. Both pieces, as well as others in the group, feature Bollé's 4 in 1 fabrication combining moisture wicking, anti-static, UV protection and anti-bacterial properties (which truly does add time to the life of a high-performance tennis garment). Check out the whole collection and give your game some pink infused energy. Available at fine tennis retailers including Tennis-Warehouse.

Spring/Summer 2009 Tennis Preview From adidas By Stella McCartney. What's Not to Love?

  

Once again uber style meets performance with Stella McCartney's spring/summer 2009 tennis line. Key silhouettes in the new collection are inspired by playful twists on Ms. McCartney's current fashion line, combining feminine rouching, gathering, mesh, delicate lace appliques and fluted sleeves. Ornate Edwardian lingerie and vintage nightwear influenced looks contrast with close fitting performance body wear. Collection highlights I love include a super pretty empire fit dress (above). The Stella McCartney line includes Climalite technology with savvy little mesh cut outs here and there for ventilation. At this time, Maria Kirilenko is still the only pro athlete allowed to wear the line. Not a problem for the majority of us not on tour. 

Pictured top left, the tennis performance dress in purple grape with white tennis performance bra and hot pant underneath. The same dress is shown top right in seed pearl with bra and hot pant in neon red. Below, the drop waisted tennis performance skirt in white with the lightweight CU blouson jacket. There's lots more in the line to come. Stay tuned! Shop beginning January 2009 at Tennis-Warehouse and adidas Tennis . Images: adidas by Stella McCartney

Caroline Wozniacki's Style Set For the 2009 Australian Open.

 Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki is one to watch in 2009. Last summer the 18 year old grabbed her first WTA title at Stockholm's Nordic Light Open. Pictured here, Wozniacki wears her kit for the 2009 Australian Open. I got to try on both pieces and fell in love. The top is the adidas adlibria tank in neon yellow (MSRP $45 USD). Lightweight and luxurious feeling, the racerback top is cut to feature female specific ventilation -- mesh inserts and ClimaCool fabric offer plenty of breathability. I liked the close fit of this top and the fact that it sits lower than waistline height with a very pretty cut out  in the lower hem.  It was perfect over the low riding adilibria skort (here in cinder beach, MSRP $50) which oozes style with its voluminous pleats. I personally liked the white version as it goes with all the other tops I have.

Like Ana Ivanovic, Wozniacki will wear the Barricade V W (MSRP $120) when she steps onto the Aussie courts come January. All items will be available beginning January 2009. Learn more or shop at Tennis-Warehouse or adidas Tennis

Quick Sister, Get Yourself a Pair of These.

Athletic foot candy? Not at all. Ok, I do love the way these look but there's a boatload of technology packed into these babies. If you train for your tennis game, sprint, twist, stretch, lunge, you want the new Nike Women's Zoom Quick Sister+ that rocks with every twist and turn in your off-court regime. Here's why. DiamondFLX technology in the outsole allows for multi directional support and flexibility. Turn the shoe over and you can flex and roll the sole in every direction, no resistance. They are also super light because of flywire construction (also new). Added bonus, the Quick Sister is Nike+ enabled so you can track your workout via your iPod nano.

You'll be jonesing for every one of the delicious colors. Pictured here is Italy blue/white with volt and blue sapphire. I have the black/white with vivid pink and metallic silver versions and ADORE them. $85.00 USD. Available December 26 at Nike. Sorry guys, this one's only for the sisters.

Ana Ivanovic's Australian Open 09 Style Confirmed.

 Ana Ivanovic's 2009 Australian Open dress made a quick test debut in Doha. It passed. The violet adilibria dress by adidas will be Ana's first round look down under. Designed with ClimaCool technology in the like buttah' lightweight fabric adidas fans love, the look is stylishly current, bold and strong. Adilibria by name and cut exudes the tiniest hint of tunica from ancient Rome with the asymmetrical shoulders and ruching, but the athletic ability and feminine silhouette with drop waist, flirty pleated skirt and vibrant hue make it decidedly contemporary.

 Don't size-up with this dress as it needs to sit on the hips to fall correctly. A trim physique is a must. MSRP $70.00 USD, also in cyan (aka teal blue).

For footwear Ana has chosen the Barricade V W, white with metallic grey stripes, MSRP $120.00. Great stability and long-term wear on hard surfaces. Dress and shoes available beginning January 2009. Get the look at Tennis Warehouse or adidas Tennis .

Modern Design Tennis Headwear for Women Who Wear Headscarves.

Women and girls who choose to wear headscarves can now fully enjoy tennis with the specially designed Capsters Tennis hijab that provides a suitable and stylish option. The sleek, fitted scarf stays comfortably in place and is made of stretchable, breathable polyester with easy Velcro fastening. Price 22,50 euro (app. $28 USD). One style, pictured here, available at Capsters. The company supports empowering women and girls through sport. Learn more at Women Win.