FASHION FIX: It's short but not so sweet

I know, I know. Everyone's talking about the shriekfest of a final we're all going to endure between former champ Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka tomorrow at the Australian Open. It's been fodder for the tennis media and bloggeratti so there's no need for me to add to the noise. But, people, there's something more sinister going on besides the idea of the shriek as gamesmanship (c'mon girls, you're losing the PR battle here). What I find most disturbing does involve Vika, but it's not what's coming out of her mouth, at least not this time. It's what's on her ass: The BOOM BOOMS. There, I said it.

Those white unassuming Nike BOOM BOOMS, on their own, are fine. They work really well in a practice session or match on a smaller court with a small, gathering crowd of drooling young boys and probably a few girls (it's tennis remember). But in a Grand Slam final??? Not. Appropriate. I don't blame the her, though. If I recall correctly, it was Venus Williams who broke the barrier back in 2007 and set the dangerous precedent when she wore white BOOM BOOMS from then-sponsor Reebok during her Wimbledon win against Marion Bartoli:

That's one barrier she should've left alone.

Of course, not everyone feels this way. In fact, some have been complimenting the fact that the BOOM BOOMS give off good leg for Vika. Her agent and former WTA lady baller, Meilen Tu, has been going on about "da legs" on Twitter while reader Wayne said "She looks way hot in those shorts!" over on the Down the Line! Facebook page. Her legs do look good, though "hot" and BOOM BOOMS are reserved, at least here, for shirtless boys in uncompromising positions on the tennis court (or in my head). If this sentiment sounds a little sexist, I'll say in my defense that at the very least I try to remain an equal opportunity offender.

I guess it's too much to imagine she might actually put on something else besides the BOOM BOOMS--maybe a a top with a skirt that actually gives her some curves--for her first major final. Oh, that's the other thing: They're not flattering on her. She's too straight up-and-down. Now, put them on Rafa. Seriously, I think we've got a winner.

[Photo(s) credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images]

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]

PHOTO OP: Rafa wears white, like, REALLY well

I swear the Rafarse has never met a pair of white shorts it didn't like. And it doesn't hurt when they're soaked with sweat. Here's more proof so click and zoom people. CLICK and ZOOM.

[Photo(s): Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)]

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: Roger Federer thinks pink in Toronto

Last night Roger Federer played his first ATP World Tour match since losing to Tomas Berdych in the quarterfinals of his beloved Wimbledon. The Swiss maestro defeated Juan Ignacio Chela 7-6 (7), 6-3 in the second round (his opening match) at the Rogers Cup Masters 1000. He'll face either Nicolas Almagro or Michael Llodra in the next round.

Fed also broke out a mostly new Nike kit for his play leading up to the season's final major, the U.S. Open. He's working the Victory RF Lawn Polo ($80) that he wore at the All England Club but this time in a new colorway: perfect pink. Right. More on that a little further down.

The polo is paired with the Victory Men's Tennis Short (about $39 - UK) that he, again, wore at Wimbledon but this time in dark khaki (I couldn't locate a specific name given to this colorway.)

Overall I'm liking this change in color direction for Fed's duds particularly the move away from black, navy and white for his shorts. You don't really see brown tones used much at all on the courts. And, while it's quite preppy it's absolutely refreshing.

That being said, I prefer my pinks brighter and not as dusty or as pastel as the shade he's wearing in Toronto. Perfect it is not in my book. What I'm really looking forward to, however, is his U.S. Open day outfit where he's slated to showcase a light blue polo with the dark khaki short. That blue looks on point. Yum.

BONUS: Does anyone know what these letters 'V S W' stand for on the World No. 3's practice tee? *scratches head*

[Photo(s): Nike.com, 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: Federer survives Falla, debuts Victory Lawn styles by Nike

Phew.

And that's probably the tamest thing Roger Federer said to himself during his 5-7, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1), 6-0 escape from his opening round match at Wimbledon against a blazing Alejandro Falla.

The 6-time champ fell behind early in the first set due to some great play by the Colombian and his game continued to falter from there. The World No. 60, who called the trainer a couple of times for an apparent groin injury, even served for the match in the fourth set but Fed managed to break back and dominate for the remainder.

Afterward Fed told the BBC:

I definitely got very lucky out there. I have lost many matches this year which I should have won, this is one I should have lost but I came through. But that is sometimes how grass court tennis works.

It came as a bit of a shock and it's not something I was that prepared for, but you have to draw from experience and physical strength. I live to fight another day.

Fed stats for the match: 101 winners/40 UEs, 21 aces, 59% first serve, 66% success at net. And he still almost lost. Go figure. He'll face Serbia's Ilija Bozoljac for a spot in the third round.


So what new Nike duds is the top seed wearing as he continues his quest to tie Pete Sampras' record of seven Wimby titles?

The Victory RF Lawn Polo in white + gold ($80) which features a 4-button hidden placket, pintucks in the front and pleats at the back yoke.

The polo is paired with the Victory Lawn Short in white + gold (about $52 - UK) which showcases subtle striping.

The Swiss is also working the Lunarlite Vapor Tour in white + gold ($120). In keeping with tradition his version showcases a '6' on back referencing his 6 titles at the All England Club.

And no Fed outfit at Wimby would be complete without his murse and warm up top, which this year was a simple zip front sweater in cream with the RF logo of course:


I'm actually really happy Nike decided to go low key with the sweater warm up. The outfits were getting a bit overdone, as if they were trying to top themselves every year. The entire outfit is clean and classic. Nice.

[Photo(s): Getty Images, Tennis Warehouse, Nike Tennis, AP]

FASHION FIX: Berdych gives Isner the beatdown, hits high style note in Nike

Tomas Berdych equaled his best performance at Roland Garros when he absolutely dominated the towering John Isner 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 to reach the fourth round. He crushed 43 winners against only 10 errors, threw down 9 aces, made 12 of 13 net approaches and won 28 of 30 points when landing his first serve. Gawdy stuff if you ask me.

Pretty Boy Berd is also working what I think is the best boy's outfit of the tourney. Here's a rundown of his latest Nike kit:

Men's Classic Back Spin Net Polo in white + flat pewter ($60)

Men's Summer Back Spin Woven Short in dark obsidian navy + white ($50)

Zoom Breathe 2K10 in black + yellow ($100)

Home and Away Reversible Doublewide Wristbands in yellow + midnight navy ($8)

At quick glance this outfit comes across as pretty straightforward. But I think the pairing of the side stripe on the shorts with the window pane design on the polo is a more successful and smart use of pattern mixing than what Nike tried with Rafael Nadal this season. Plus the pops of yellow on the Zooms and wristbands gets me all giddy inside. Classic with a tennis twist.

Oh Berdy, you're just so easy on the eyes - in all ways.

[Photo(s): Getty Images]

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]