I [heart] Tennis (part 2): Wimbledon

Probably the most famous of the Grand Slams, Wimbledon is all about tradition, pomp & circumstance, and white on white tennis outfits (not to mention those luscious berries and cream).  However, tennis whites have come a long way.  Sometimes it's not a horrible thing to have a set of guidelines to follow--it shows how creative people can be when they push those boundaries.  Besides, how beautiful does the white look floating across the green grass courts?

 

Check out all the action at the Wimbledon website.

French Open Tennis: the Fashion Files

I'm amazed at how far tennis fashion for the grand slams has evolved.  Not every outfit is a "hit", but at least many players are willing to take some risks.  I always look forward to seeing how far the athletic brands can think outside of the box--or the lines (couldn't resist that one).  Let me know your thoughts in the comments section.

This outfit has caused quite a stir (not to mention healthy Facebook debate!).  I love her flair but would have preferred to see her choose red shorts instead of the nude.
 

It surprised me that Serena is the relatively low-key one this tournament--she usually makes the bigger statement.  A lot of players wear blue during the tournament which photographs well against the orange dirt.
 

Here they are in their doubles outfits which are a little more subdued.

Aravane Rezai, less well known in the states, adds some of her home country's French flare with gold lame--and I think some lace.
 

I like the subtle tone on tone print of Caroline Wozniacki's dress.
 

Alize Cornet, a French player looking very French in navy and white stripes.
 

The beautiful Ana Ivanovic in a nice red/orange outfit.
 

But the winner has to be Maria Sharapova.  She's always creative, well put-together and fashionable.
 

I figured I would mention a couple of men.  Most Improved has to be Rafa.  Not too long ago he was sporting capris (manpri's) and a tacky graphic muscle shirt.  Now he's taken a page from Roger's fashion playbook and is wearing classy flat front shorts and a nice color combo shirt--that looks great against the orange clay.
 

The winner for the men is, and will always be, Roger.  Classy.  Champion.  He may not always win, but he has elevated tennis to the next level in so many ways.
 

Thanks to the Roland Garros French Open website for "letting" me jack these photos.

I [heart] Tennis (part 1): the French Open

The French Open is my symbolic start to the summer--the middle of the tournament always falls over Memorial Day.  I love watching the players elegantly (and sometimes not so elegantly) slide around on the red clay, playing the way I could only dream of.  I also love the glimpses of Paris you get watching the coverage.  One day, Kato and I will travel to each of the grand slams and explore the cities where they are played.  In the mean time, here is a little collage of the city and the game (and Roger!).

 Follow the action, players and draws.