FASHION FIX: Is Kuznetsova getting the good vibes?

Have you seen this Fila outfit before? Yes, no, maybe so? It's the outfit Kim Clijsters was supposed to wear to defend her US Open title. As we all know she was forced to pull out due to ANOTHER injury, this time to her abdominal area. Svetlana Kuznetsova was given the go ahead to wear it by the Italian sportswear brand.

I'm thinking it has some of Kimmie's lucky US Open vibes. Why? Because Sveta's actually playing well in Flushing Meadows. So far. I was hesitant to mention it because we all know the rollercoaster ride she puts us on when she hits the court these days. She can be playing well and then, out of nowhere, start spraying groundies everywhere but where they need to go. I suppose at some level we love the drama but it would be great to see someone of her talent (HELLO, she won two Slams somehow) play up to her ability. Plus, we still have JJ.

We should start a prayer circle for Sveta and hope she keeps this going. Then, maybe she won't have to wear Kimmie's hand-me-downs again, nice as they are. So there's that.

Pierluigi V-neck Top, $58

Pierluigi Skort, $60

Available at: Fila.com

[Photo(s) credit: Fila]

FASHION FIX: Clijsters takes Fila back to her childhood for Roland Garros

Kim Clijsters + Fila are going old school again.

In celebration of their 100th anniversary, the Italian sportswear brand is launching a new collection at Roland Garros inspired by a Fila outfit Kimmy received for Christmas as a child in the mid 1980's. It's part of a series of 100th anniversary commemorative Champions collections worn exclusively by the 4-time Grand Slammer that also includes the Evonne Goolagong-Cawley inspired kit she wore during her winning run in Oz.

The Fila design team actually combed their archives searching for the outfit based on Kimmy's description. Once they discovered it, the team went to work. They updated the color palette to something brighter for a more modern silhouette. The short-sleeve top, warm up jacket and visor were adorned with the signature print design from her childhood outfit while the F-box 100 year anniversary seal logo was placed inside each piece. And the team used Shiny Crinkle Taslin fabric to give the warm up a full-on 80's look and feel (oooh, I remember it well).

The Champions collection can be found at specialty retailers nationwide or at fila.com.

[Photo(s): Fila]

FASHION FIX: Li beats Benesova in Madrid, wears Nike Gridiron

Don't look now but Li Na is on a mini roll! Yes, I cheer for small favors. She ousted Czech Iveta Benesova 6-1 6-4 from the Madrid second round today, the first time the Chinese lady baller has won back-to-back matches since reaching the Australian Open final in January. Li took out Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez in her opening round match.

So what brought about this small turnaround? Well, Li's either missing that credit card badly (you know it's on severe lock down right now) or new coach Michael Mortensen is starting to make an impact. My guess? COMBO PLATTER.

Anyway, I'm really liking these Nike duds she's been wearing from the Gridiron Group this clay court swing. Obviously, we haven't seen much of it since she hasn't been winning but maybe we will now. Li's working the Smash Classic Top ($50) in white with gym pink and gridiron:

The top is paired with the Smash Classic Skort ($55) in gridiron with gym pink and white:

The combination of the gridiron, which seems to be similar to gun metal grey, and the pink gives a nice contrast. The accents of pink on the v of the tee, the bold stripe on the skort and the pops of it peeking out from the slits are pretty cool, too.

BONUS: Check out some of the stuff Li + Coach Morty have been focusing on during their practice sessions in this behind-the-scenes video. Look deeply into her eyes. You can really see how badly she wants it back. The credit card, I mean:

[Photo(s): Reuters, Tennis Warehouse]

FASHION FIX: Monfils makes it five in his K-Swiss catastrophe

Gael Monfils was taken to the distance today but escaped a first round ousting at the US Open edging out homeboy Robert Kendrick 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-7 (7), 6-4. The match was not without controversy and I'm not just talking about his K-Swiss (more on that in a bit.)

With La Monf serving 4-all at deuce, a return by Robert appeared to clip the 17th seed's racquet before going long. The call went against the American who proceeded to complain to the chair with no success. The Frenchie managed to hold then break for the win. If anyone has a clip of the incident feel free to leave the link in the DtL Peanut Gallery.

Now, about this K-Swiss get up. If there was an early candidate for worst outfit of the US Open THIS would be it. I mean, talk about full-on FUG. Are those claw marks around his neck? Was this evil clown-inspired? Even the fit looks a bit tight. I can live with the shorts but that's really about it.

I do like this photo from his match today, though:

Yeah, let's just leave this post with a good feeling, shall we?

[Photo(s): Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: A closer look at Rafael Nadal + Roger Federer's US Open Nike numbers

Here are the duds Nike debuted for Rafael Nadal + Roger Federer last night at the Primetime Knockout Event. Let's take a peek, shall we?

For his day matches Tron will be working the Fall Vamos Court Crew ($65) in hot lime - how fitting - and, to the pleasure of many fans and Brad Gilbert, an all-black look for night. It's the first time he'll be working a full-on black kit at the US Open or anywhere else on tour. So should we crown him Darth Rafa? Uh, not sold on it. I'll stick with Tron.

Both tops are paired with the Fall Vamos Woven Short ($60).

He'll be tearing up the Flushing Meadow DecoTurf blue courts with his fave Air Court Ballistecs 2.3 ($120) in white with lime for day and lime with black for night. It was the global sports brand's intention to keep Tron in all-black at night to highlight these sneaks. And it worked.

Nike has moved 5-time US Open champ Roger Federer in a decidedly different direction from the Spaniard by outfitting him in more classic pieces inspired by the blue collar/white collar shirts that personify New York. Traditional menswear elements including the windowpane collar treatment and stripe are also highlighted.

The Swiss will be working the Victory RF Court Polo ($80) in football blue for day and dark obsidian navy at night matched with the Victory RF Tennis Shorts (about $39 - UK) in dark khaki and dark obsidian navy, respectively.

The 16-time Grand Slammer will be continue with the Lunar Vapor Tour ($120) in white with football blue for day and white with dark obsidian navy for night.

I think it's a smart move for Nike to return to the days of giving Rafa + Fed more distinct looks. There was a moment last season when the two started to dress too similarly - it seemed like Rafa was getting outfitted by Fed. Can imagine that scene? *visualizes...lulz*

Anyway, this direction keeps their individuality and plays well to their personalities. Me likey.

[Photo(s): Nike]

FASHION FIX: Rafael Nadal returns in Nike solar red

Like Roger Federer a day before, Rafael Nadal made his return to the ATP World Tour last night, playing his first match since winning his second Wimbledon championship and eighth major title. And like Fed, it was a predictably rusty performance from the top seed who scraped through the first set of his match against Stanislas Wawrinka at the Rogers Cup (playing the longest tie-break of his career) before earning a tough 7-6(12), 6-3 win. He'll battle Kevin Anderson for a spot in the quarterfinals.

The Mallorcan Matador also showcased a new colorway in the Nike Vamos Lawn Crew ($65) he worked during his Wimby win. There was a bit of discussion over Twitter about what color this is (I was all for salmon pink while I also "heard" watermelon, bubble gum, neon + flamingo pink) but here's the official color name: solar red. Hmph.

It was paired with the same white Vamos Woven Short from his All England Club run.

I'm so not a fan of this style or colorway at all. It's like something borrowed from Tron's color-blind cousin. But, if I had to choose I guess I'd go with the white version from Wimby which looks like a basic v-neck tee. But please don't make me. I beg of you.

P.S. - Can you imagine a watching a Fedal final with these duds on display? I'm doing that right now and I still can't watch.


[Photo(s): TennisWarehouse.com, Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Nadal knocks off Nishikori, debuts Vamos Nike styles

Rafael Nadal played his first match at Wimbledon since the classic 2008 final when he defeated Roger Federer for his first, and only, Championship. The 7-time Grand Slammer defeated wildcard Kei Nishikori 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 with some solid, aggressive stats including 45 winners/16 UEs, 69% first serve, 8 aces and 15 of 24 net approaches.

In his post-match presser Rafa was asked about his return to Centre Court after missing last year with injury:

Q. How did it feel to be back on Centre Court?

RAFAEL NADAL: Hello (laughter).

Sure, it's always special to play on this court. Very happy to come back to this tournament and play in probably the most beautiful and emblematic court in the world.

Q. Did it feel different after missing last year?

RAFAEL NADAL: No, no. Just happy to come back. Always the feeling is amazing. Was amazing all the time come back here after the victory in 2008 always, sure, is a little bit more special.

He'll face Robin Haase, who beat James Blake, in the next round.


Throughout the fortnight Rafa will be showcasing the Nike Vamos Lawn Crew Tennis Shirt ($65) in white + light wild mango paired with the Vamos Woven Short ($60) in the same colorway.


The Majorcan Matador will be kicking up the grass and taking names in the new Air Court Ballistec 2.3 trainers ($120) in white, black, solar red and metallic silver.


So, there's not much to say about this Nike kit - it's fine and he wears it well, duh - but I have no words for this Rafoto below. Well, there's one: HAWT.


[Photo(s): Getty Images, TennisWarehouse.com, Nike.com]

FASHION FIX: Fila debuts Center Court and Collezione styles for Roland Garros

If you follow me on Twitter you'd know I made a visit to the Fila offices in Midtown Manhattan, NYC earlier this month to view the collections for this year's majors. I had a great time and plenty of laughs with the team over there while also talking tennis, fashion and other fun nuggets. So here's a little overview of what the Italian sports apparel brand is showcasing at this year's Roland Garros!

The men, including Marin Cilic, Janko Tipseravic and Fabio Fognini, will be debuting the Center Court collection which features a bold color story and fabrications that provide ultimate breathability.

(L) Center Court Color Blocked Crew - $45
(C) Center Court Polo - $60
(R) Center Court Printed Crew - $50

Center Court Short - $45

The ladies of Fila, including defending champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, Agnes Szavay and Anna Chakvetadze, are showcasing the Collezione group which features timeless fashion and a sophisticated blend of style and comfort.

Collezione Dress - $65

(L) Collezione Cap Sleeve - $48
(C) Collezione Sleeveless Tank - $45
(R) Collezione Racerback Tank - $50

Collezione Skort - $45

Visit Fila.com for more information.

[Photo(s): Fila]

FASHION FIX: Nadal + Sharapova get their style games on at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal began his quest for a fifth title at Roland Garros today defeating talented 18-year old Gianni Mina 6-2, 6-2, 6-2. The Frenchie gave good game but Rafa was never really in trouble in this match. However, the second seed probably won't be thrilled with his game particularly the uncharacteristic unforced errors (28 in total against 20 winners.) He'll face Argentine Horacio Zeballos for spot in the third round.

So onto the more serious matter of his new Nike on-court fashion which will be paired with the ultra-lux Richard Mille RM027 Tourbillon watch valued at $525,000 he'll be sporting on his right wrist - *gulp*:

Men's Summer Rush & Crush Clay Crew in neptune blue w/turbo green, electric green and white ($60)

Men's Rush & Crush Clay Short in white ($34)

Color me so happy that Nike decided to ditch the striped shirt matched with plaid shorts horrendousness they forced Rafa to pimp out of late - it was distracting. I'm liking the strong color blocking here and yes, it seems he and Roger Federer are wearing the same shorts this time around (feel free to correct me if I'm wrong!)

Edit: And I was SO wrong. Check the Fed/Nike post for the real deal on the Swiss right now. The Rush & Crush Clay Short is all Rafa's.


Maria Sharapova got off to a much better start here than at the Oz Open where she went out in the first round to good friend Maria Kirilenko. The Russian fashionista defeated compatriot Ksenia Pervak 6-3, 6-2 and actually had good stats to prove it including 27 winners/21 UES, 5 aces and ONLY 5 double faults. For reals. Her movement also looked pretty smooth on the slippery stuff.

She'll next face Belgian Kirsten Flipkens with a possible blockbuster third round match against Justine Henin awaiting. *grins widely*

Like Shrieka, I'm also a big fashion freak so let's move on to which Nike dress, which will be paired with Elsa Peretti Mesh Earrings by Tiffany & Co., she debuted for Roland Garros:

Women's Maria Sharapova Clay Court Dress in wolf grey w/deep burgundy & stealth grey ($110)

'Wolf' and 'stealth' grey? Gotta love those descriptors. Anyway, let's start with the big positive: it's light years better than the Oz Open catastrophe (still trying to burn that one from my memory bank) or even the yellow thing from the warm up tourneys.

But I don't understand her obsession with the layering of fabrics especially for on-court play when the seam work is iffy and pulls at her in all these weird places. It's not going to be flattering unless you're a Blondzilla...and it probably won't work even then.

[Photo(s): Getty Images, Reuters]

FASHION FIX: Nole knocks Ivan out, goes high orange in adidas

Novak Djokovic looked all the part of a top contender in his opening round match at the US Open today.

The Serb absolutely overwhelmed a lethargic-looking Ivan Ljubicic during his 6-3, 6-1, 6-3 rout. His numbers were equally impressive: 26 winners against only 7 errors, 9 aces, and 79% success on first serve deliveries. It looks like someone's feeling kinda good.

Nole also debuted his a bright new hue in the Men's Fall Edge Djokovic Top ($65) for his US Open campaign: high orange. I think it looks great against his skin tone and darker features. *swoon* He'll be working the pure steel version during his night matches this tourney:


So Nole's back to his sexy ways is he? Well, let's just hope his game continues to follow.

(images via tenniswarehouse, getty)

FASHION FIX: Nole mutes Misha, goes red + khaki for adidas

Ever the entertainer, Novak Djokovic not only dropped trou this week but he also made a wardrobe change mid-tourney in Montreal from his Wimby duds to what we have here. Gawd, can he BE anymore talented?

The Serb defeated Mikhail Youzhny 6-3, 6-4 and will attempt to break a 2-match losing streak to Andy Roddick when they meet in ANOTHER highly-anticipated quarterfinal.


Nole also debuted some new adidas duds for his match including the Men's Edge Top Djokovic ($47) in red + orange featuring a mesh back and Nole's falcon logo on the right shoulder.


The shirt is paired with the Edge Bermuda Shorts ($39) in brown + white though the brown is definitely mixed with grey as well. More of a khaki I say.


Although it's basically the same style he's been wearing, it's good to see adidas give him some fresh color combos especially since the Nike boys 1 + 2 have been working some new gear themselves. This outfit is my fave of the year for him so far because the red is a beautifully deep shade and the pairing with the khaki compliments nicely. Plus, no one else on the tour is wearing anything similar at the moment - what a crazy concept!

His Aussie Open look comes in second for me now.

(images via getty, prodirecttennis)

FASHION FIX: Nole says "buh-bye" to blue, hello to red with adidas Falcon collection

Novak Djokovic will be hoping do better this year than last when he was dumped out of Wimbledon's second round by Marat Safin. And, while he made the final Sunday in Halle he continued his losing streak in championship matches earning his fourth consecutive defeat this time to Tommy Haas. A mental hurdle much?

For his campaign, the Serb will be continue to showcase duds from the adidas Falcon line but, luckily for us, Nole has dropped the eye-sore blue for red - phew. The collection features the brand's trademark ClimaCool fabrication which pulls heat and sweat away from the body and allows air to circulate close to the skin.

He'll be working the Men's Edge Top (above, $46) paired with the Men's Edge Bermuda Shorts (below, $37)

Nole will also be arriving on court wearing the Edge Warm Up Top ($53).

Here are the new kicks Nole will be wearing during his campaign for his first Wimby Championship: the Genius CC Novak sneakers in white/red/brown ($118).


(images via prodirecttennis.com)