FASHION FIX: Nike spring looks for Serena, Sharapova, Azarenka, and Li

It's spring, right?! Uh, not quite. Winter is still hanging on here in NYC, clinging to life with its frozen talons (can you tell I hate winter?). At least there are parts of the world and this country where it's bright, warm, and people are half dressed. Miami is one of those places, and it's where the ATP and WTA tours are heading for the second Masters 1000 and Premier tourneys, respectively, at the Sony Open. You can see the draws here.

It's also where Nike is debuting some of their spring looks for their lady ballers. Check 'em out:

Top seed Serena Williams will be wearing the Force Pleated Knit Dress. The spring-esque color blocking, which I love, reminds me that spring is officially starting tomorrow. BUT YOU WOULDN'T KNOW IT BECAUSE IT WAS SNOWING HERE. YEAH, SNOWING.

Indian Wells champ and third seed Maria Sharapova will be, of course, working duds from her eponymous collection for Nike including the Premier Maria Tank paired with the Premier Maria Skort. Nice green.

Why does it always seem Victoria Azarenka, the No. 2 seed, always gets the short end of the fashion stick with Nike? Her Australian Open dress was a flop, and this outfit - the Force Printed Tank with the Force Flouncy Woven Skort - isn't going to blind you with its incredibly fashionable design. And that includes the disco print on the straps.

Here's the plus and it's a big one: SHE'S BACK. It will be fantastic to see fifth seed Li Na in action after being out since rehabbing the ankle she injured during her run to the Australian Open final. She'll be working the Force Pure Tennis Top paired with the Pleated Knit Skirt. Pretty basic and typical for her. I'm just excited she's showing up at all.

[Photo(s) credit: Nike Tennis Facebook Page]

FASHION FIX: Venus Williams returns in Miami, revamps EleVen

There were two big returns to the court today at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. Well, two and a half. First, Alisa Kleybanova. She played her first match since leaving the WTA tour 10 months ago to get treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma - and won. Next up was Venus Williams. She hadn't played a singles match since announcing she was suffering from Sjögren's Syndrome 7 months ago at the US Open. She won her opening match as well, routing Kimiko Date-Krumm 6-0, 6-3.

And now for the half. I say "half" not because it's half as good or anything but because it just doesn't compare to these two lady ballers coming back from these serious health conditions. But, it's worth a mention: EleVen is back, too!

V broke out a new dress for her match from the relaunched 2012 Spring Collection which has evolved into more sportswear than just sports apparel. Apparently, she now has an excuse for the full-on cray she had been wearing on court as of late. You know - this, this, this, this, this. It was all an "experiment." Like pairing a brown belt with black shoes. Or chunky bangs. This new EleVen is the rawlness (my word, not hers). And, get this - there's now a men's line. V's planning on having mass distribution for EleVen so more people can wear what she wears on court.

It's a fine restart. Some basics with a bit of fashion thrown in (loving the "Oh & Oh" tagline). And, V definitely upped the quality quotient from what I can tell in the pictures. I'll be interested to see how the collections evolve and where she ends up selling it. But, I give her full credit for continuing to build the Venus Williams brand. Young lady ballers, pay attention. There's life after tennis so be prepared.

More shots from the EleVen capsule collection after the jump - click the headline!

FASHION FIX: Nike puts Nadal in bold berry

I haven't really liked much of what Nike has given Rafael Nadal this season. It's not that any of it was full-on fug or anything. The duds just didn't make an impression. This week in Tokyo, the Spaniard broke out the Men's Winter Rafa Ace Masters Crew ($65) in bold berry that features a funky graphic on the bottom front and back. While it's still pretty basic I'm LOVING this color - it's deep, rich and looks really good against his skin tone. Plus, it feels fresh next to all the red that's been littering the ATP World Tour - major points.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Galina Voskoboeva in ellesse

So she got blitzed by Victoria Azarenka. Who hasn't been this week?

A tired Galina Voskoboeva was dismantled by the Belarussian bomber 6-1, 6-2 in the quarterfinals of the Rogers Cup today. The 26-year old from Kazakhstan had a stellar week, though, upending the likes of Marion Bartoli, Flavia Pennetta and Maria Sharapova, someone she admits "cheering for" in the past (I can see Shrieka's reaction to that quote already, "And??"). Not bad for a qualifier ranked outside the Top 100.

She also looked pretty good working this ultra-fem white ellesse tank dress with black piping, a Peter Pan collar and frilly skirt. It certainly borders on being more of a cocktail number than something for the tennis court but it's the Italian brand's way. Besides, they've done a lot worse.

Speaking of worse, we should all be REALLY thankful Nadia Petrova didn't get a hold of this one. Double phew.

[Photo(s) credit: Chris Trotman/Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: You reach No. 1 and all you get is this lousy, recycled outfit

Maybe it's the tough economy. Or maybe they ran out of ideas. Or MAYBE it's Kate Middleton's sartorial influence.

Whatever the reason, Sergio Tacchini deserves a major red card for recycling this outfit for Novak Djokovic's first match as the top baller in the world. And it's not the first time they recycled it. He debuted it during the spring clay-court season and then, shockingly, showed up wearing it at Roland Garros. But even if the outfit was AMAZING (and it's not) it still wouldn't be okay to have him wear it again. You're lucky he won his match, ST.

The same could be said for adidas by Stella McCartney and Caroline Wozniacki. They recycled the much-maligned blue ruffle dress she debuted at Indian Wells at Roland Garros and today she appeared in Toronto for her opening round match (which she lost) in a similar outfit to the one she wore starting at Charleston in the spring. The skirt is the same but the tank top was the orange of her sports bra, not white. Same diff to me.

These companies have the opportunity to outfit the top-ranked ballers in tennis and this is the best they can do. I mean, REALLY. These spots are kinda high visibility. Get it together.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Venus ousts Akgul, debuts EleVen jumper

 

A quick note before we talk about Venus Williams and THE OUTFIT: I've recently started a new gig. And while I'm obviously excited to be starting this new adventure it means I won't be able to post as regularly as I have in the past and it might be at odd times (no, I'm not working the pole - TRUST). I wish I could've timed it a bit better, like after Wimbledon, but it is what it is. Just thought I'd let you guys know in case you started wondering why posting has a slowed down a bit. And, as always, thanks for reading.

Now back to V. She played well in her first round match, crushing Akgul Amanmuradova 6-3, 6-1. But, really, what we need to discuss is the new EleVen creation. I suppose I should just let the 5-time champ explain in her own words:

"It was a jumper. Jumpers are very now, as is lace. The shoulders have a lot of draping, which is also in the moment. It's just a trendy dress. It's fun. I'm really into zippers, so it has a focal point of a zipper in the front. And the back is a cut-out, or a peek-a-boo. It's just fun.

Right now I'm really trending towards simplicity. I'm not sure why. It's just how I feel right now. Everything is getting more simple."

LMAO. You gotta love V's idea of simplicity. In any case, it's SO much better than what she busted out at the Oz Open back in January. There was nothing 'now' about that outfit. More like 'never'. Please.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Kim Sears + Pippa Middleton go retro while watching the Andys

Kim Sears was spotted watching boyfriend, Andy Murray, edge out the always tricky Janko Tipsarevic 6-4, 7-6(3) at Queen's Club. As you guys know I've always loved seeing Kim work my fave shades - the Ray Ban Aviator. In fact, the Aviator was considered serious WAGwear after being spotted on the likes of Xisca Perello and Brooklyn Decker.

But, lately, she's been donning another throwback style popular in the '80's - the Clubmaster. I had a pair back in the day that I wore with my stonewash (no acid-wash for me, I swear) pegged jeans and jean jacket. I know I'm not alone when I say I can't wait for the 80's revival to just curl up and die in some dark, dank corner already. Once is enough for me. Uh, no offense Kim.

Speaking of stonewash jean jackets, Pippa Middleton, who's becoming somewhat of a tennis watching whore (join the club, gurl) after also getting photographed in Paris taking in the French Open, showed up at Queen's Club to watch the other Andy, that being Roddick, take out Kevin Anderson 6-4, 6-4 to advance to quarterfinals where he'll meet Fernando Verdasco.

Looks like Pippa's got on the Ray Ban RB3386 which, according to the brand, is another retro style. I'm not loving these so much. Plus, the jean jacket is giving me bad flashbacks. Like, pop-up-the-collar-throw-on-some-concert-pins-blow-out-the-bangs bad.

[Photo(s) credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images, Getty Images via The Slice]

FASHION FIX: Kuznetsova keeps it classic in Fila

Could it be Svetlana Kuznetsova has turned a corner in 2011? The former Roland Garros champ has struggled all season long but seems to have found her game in the City of Light. She defeated and in-form Daniela Hantuchova 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 and will face off against Marion Bartoli for a spot in the final four.

I really like the Fila kit she's been working on the red clay this year. She's been wearing the Whiteline Sleeveless Polo ($50) in black and white paired with the Essenza Ball Short ($28) in white.

The top, part of Fila's heritage collection, is a true throwback style which makes it stand out from everything else out there but with the large windowpane design stays modern. And while I'm not a big fan of shorty-shorts during matches, particularly during majors, they really work with the sleeveless polo style. But, if I had my way (like being the tours' stylist - please??) I would reserve them for the boys. I mean, they ain't called the Ball Short for nothing (though don't tell Sveta that).

[Photo(s): Fila, AFP PHOTO / JACQUES DEMARTHON]

FASHION FIX: The polo returns in red for Federer in Paris

No one would have blamed Roger Federer for feeling a little nervous today. For his first round match at Roland Garros the former top baller was facing the man who almost took him out in Madrid, Feliciano Lopez, a few weeks ago. But today was a different day as a focused Fed dispatched of the Spaniard in straights sets 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3). It wasn't the cleanest match by either baller (shanktastic!) but you can be sure the Swiss was happy to get that one out of the way. He next faces French eye candy Maxime Teixeira for a spot in the third round. 

Fed also returned to form with his on-court fashion. Since March Madness Nike had been outfitting the Swiss in collarless, high-V neck shirts that seemed, oh, a bit off somehow. Like he was out for a practice or his neck was naked. But, alas, the collars have returned in the shape of a polo - the Trophy Stripe Polo ($80) to be exact! Here it is in sport red:

The polo is paired with the Trophy Woven Shorts (about $48) in white which features cute contrast piping on the pocket:

Rounding out the RG kit I give you the Lunar Vapor 8 Tour ($120) in sport red + white:

Look, it was a nice change to see him in something other than a polo since that's what he wears 99.9999% of the time on court. But if you were to ask me what I thought he looked best in I'd still say the polo. It works well on him. He's all about classic design with pops of color here and there (and this red is a strong choice) and not the technotronic trends that are so popular right now. He's a bit of throwback as we all know.

So, I don't know about you but I'm happy it's back.

[Photo(s): Nike, Alex Livesey/Getty Images]

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: Where do we go from here, JJ?

WRONG.

What else can you say about what Jelena Jankovic showcased at Roland Garros today? When she first debuted this ANTA style earlier in the season I wasn't feeling the design much. However, it was more fun and playful than her dresses from earlier in the season which reflected her personality better. But, talk about taking something way too far. Sheesh.

It's going to be hard for me to watch her matches because I'll be completely distracted by not only the dress or the shoes but the whole damn thing. I mean, the color combo is just fug. Even the picture is giving me vertigo. MUST. LOOK. AWAY.

At least she got past the first round. There's a plus.
   
[Photo(s): Getty Images]

VIDEO VAULT: Roland Garros Nike preview for Nadal, Federer and Sharapova

Nike Tennis recently released videos featuring Creative Director Janice Lucena and Footwear Development Director Gary McCourt discussing the inspiration and design for the kits Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova will be wearing during their Roland Garros campaigns. I'll have a review, including links for "where to buy", once play begins since you can never tell how the duds will fit until they're actually on the ballers.

In the meantime, enjoy these sneak peeks!

CHECK IT:



Baller: Rafael Nadal
Inspiration: Earth (derived from the four elements of air, fire, earth, water)



Baller: Roger Federer
Inspiration: Speed, racing



Baller: Maria Sharapova
Inspiration: Paris, The Eiffel Tower

[Via: NIKE TENNIS]

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]

(UPDATED) FASHION FIX: Are you "All In" for these adidas tees?

Have you guys seen these new adidas t-shirts their boys have been wearing during their practices in Estoril? How much do you WANT?

These tees are part of the adidas' latest brand marketing campaign called "All Adidas" which features the tagline "All In". It launched last month with a series of commercials that highlights their connections with worlds of sports, music and fashion. David Beckham, Leo Messi, Derrick Rose, B.O.B and Katy Perry all make appearances in these fast-moving, visually exciting spots. The brand has a dedicated YouTube page for the new campaign where you can watch all of the commercials.

So back to these most highly coveted tees. Apparently, they're not being sold to the public which makes absolutely no sense at all. Maybe they thought there wouldn't be a demand, but maybe that's because they haven't made a PR push and no one really knows about them yet. So, let's get the word out. I mean, these tees are like tennis' version of the sports jersey. How awesome would it be to have your fave baller riding your back?? Uh, don't answer that. Focus on the tees, people.

UPDATE: So it's settled. Go here, find your country or region, click the "Contact Us" link and let them know "I WANT A BALLER ON MY BACK!" That is all.

[Photo(s): @AnaTennisGirl TwitPic]

FASHION FIX: Raonic rocks the color blocks

Milos Raonic fell to Croat Ivan Dodig in Barcelona today and even went pointless in the first set tiebreak before falling 7-6 (0), 4-6, 6-3. I'd say that's a pretty shocking stat for someone with Milos' serving prowess.

But all wasn't so bad considering what the Canadian was wearing in the match. Milos was working the Lacoste Boys Color Block Polo ($55) in white (alternate version in ocean blue).

Yes, I said 'boys' - strange, eh? I did a further search for a men's version but nothing came up. Anyway, I think it's super cute and the color blocking is fun and perfect for spring. The design is still in keeping with Milos' classic stylings but adds that pop of freshness. There's even a jacket in the same style but, please, DO NOT wear them together. I'm begging.

[Photo(s): Reuters, MidwestSports.com]

FASHION FIX: Jankovic 'blossoming' in game and style

So I got my first real glimpse at the new ANTA number Jelena Jankovic debuted in Charleston while watching her pummel the young American, Christina McHale, 6-2, 6-0. She'll battle current World No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki for a spot in the tourney final.

It's a green floral tank dress with fluorescent green straps - a sharp detour from dresses the Chinese brand had been giving JJ to wear which tended to be - what's the word? - BORING. She was asked about the new design in a post-match presser and gave a JJ-style answer:

It’s a nice color for spring, and I have these flowers so it’s kind of like the spring blossom. I’m blossoming.

'Blossoming' would be the appropriate word since her game seems to be turning a corner these days. But back to the important stuff. If I'm being honest I don't like it from an aesthetic point-of-view; I don't find it visually appealing. The flowers are okay but the top part of the dress with strapping looks very strange. However, the cut is spot on and shows off that enviable bod (does she look fitter to anyone else?) and it's definitely more fun and loud which reflects her personality more than the dresses she's been wearing lately. And she's right - it's very spring.

So I'm a bit torn on this one. But hey, JJ's having fun again so that's a HUGE plus.

P.S. - Check out Bobby Chintapalli's Q & A with the Serb for TENNIS.com.

[Photo(s): AP, Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Federer lets the polo go in Miami - sign o' the times?

Is it just me or did it jolt anyone else to see Roger Federer playing his opening round match at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami sans polo? Okay, 'jolt' is a strong word so how about 'supremely surprised'? He showed up working the Federer Trophy Men's Tennis Shirt ($70) in tech grey, gridiron, peach cream and white and proceeded to dismiss Radek Stepanek 6-3, 6-3 tying Pete Sampras with 762 career match wins. 

The last time I can recall seeing the Swiss stylist wearing something other than his fave polo look in a match was back in 2009 at Indian Wells where he reached the semifinals. This outfit definitely gives him a fresh feel but at the same time it's reminiscent of all the techno trends dominating both tours at the moment.

Now I wouldn't have thought too much about it, but earlier in the week I noticed another polo-loving baller, Ryan Harrison, stripped of his button front and collars and dressed in the Nike Men's Spring Challenger Gradated UV Crew ($50) in vibrant blue:

I, of course, had to let my thoughts known to those who may have been responsible i.e. Nike Tennis.

So is this a new trend for the sports apparel brand and/or on the tour or just a quick change up for these two ballers in Miami? Not sure. Listen, I'm all for switching things up but it's also nice to have throwback styles showcased on ballers like Fed, Ryan and even Milos Raonic + Richard Gasquet in Lacoste mixed in with these modern looks with their bright, sometimes acidic colorways. The balance, to me, is what's most important.

I guess we'll have to just wait and see.

[Photo(s): Federer via Al Bello/Getty Images; Harrison via Matthew Stockman/Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Fila offers tank + tee to benefit Japan's relief efforts

Here's the Fila tank top Kim Clijsters was wearing during last night's event to benefit Japan and its recovery. It's only available for purchase this weekend at Fila's shop at the Sony Ericsson Open. The women's tank retails for $28 while the men's t-shirt (not pictured) will run you $30. All proceeds from the sale of these items will benefit Japan's relief efforts.

So if you're lucky enough to be in Miami taking in some world class ball bashing at the SEO make sure to swing by the Fila store and check them out!

[Photo(s): Fila, Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Sharapova makes a "Statement" in her return to Miami

I'm not kidding when I say this: Her arm in that top right shot looks as long as my leg. Good GAWD woman.

Anyway, Maria Sharapova played her first match at the Sony Ericsson Open in three years last night defeating Croat Petra Martic 6-3, 6-2 in 66 minutes. The 3-time Grand Slammer had missed the tourney due to injuries but was thrilled to be back:

It has been way too long. This is one of my favorite events. It's crazy I've missed it this many years. I'm just so happy to be back. I love playing in front of this crowd, they're so enthusiastic. They love their sports and have that Latin flavor. It's fun.

Smart girl. She loves the chorizo, too.

Shrieka also busted out a new Nike dress for her return to Miami: the Maria Sharapova Cross Court Statement Dress ($110) in chlorine blue, copa and bronze. It features a side split hem for increased ventilation, Nike's Dri-FIT technology to help wick away sweat keeping those who wear it comfortable and bronze screen printing on the front and back for texture and contrast:

I'm liking this chlorine blue color on Shrieka. It works well against her fair complexion and softens her up a bit. However, the best part about this dress is the simplicity of the design. There's nothing tricky or complicated in the execution like we've witnessed in her more recent attempts - just a tank dress with a beautiful racer back. The tonal color palette is also a nice change from the color blocking they were using previously. It's a bit ironic they've named it the "Statement" dress when really it's the subtlety that makes it work well.

In any case, let's hope her game and not her fashion starts doing the talking. And soon, please.

[Photo(s): Getty Images]