Maria Sharapova is as well known for her fashion choices as she is for her powerful game on the court. Over the years, she has stepped away from the typical all-white tennis look, opting instead for bold and stylish outfits.
From her crystal-studded little black dress inspired by Audrey Hepburn at the 2007 U.S. Open, to her corset-detailed yellow dress at the French Open, and now a dove-gray mini with chartreuse accents expected at the 2011 U.S. Open, Sharapova has proven she’s not afraid to make a statement.
Her off-court wardrobe is just as striking. A fan of top designers such as Rick Owens, Dries Van Noten, Lanvin, and Stella McCartney, she can just as easily pull off a red Alexander McQueen dress as she can a winning forehand.
“This summer, I’ve been living in Isabel Marant silk pants paired with simple white tees,” Sharapova said. But with the final Grand Slam of the year just days away, her look has shifted to Nike’s Legend Capris as she trains at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Ranked third at the U.S. Open, she explained, “The hard work is done weeks before the tournament. Now it’s about keeping a balance between practice and rest.”
Even so, the tennis star is making time for fashion. Sharapova will appear in SoHo to toast the launch of her new Cole Haan ballet flats, a special release tied to Fashion’s Night Out. This marks her fifth collaboration with the brand, alongside her Nike tennis line. The flats, called Bacaras, are inspired by her U.S. Open looks: a soft gray with neon pink lining to match her daytime dress, and black suede with neon yellow accents for her night matches.
At six-foot-two, it’s no wonder Sharapova loves a shoe that’s both chic and practical. Designed for comfort, the flats are court-friendly and stylish enough for the streets. Fans can pick them up starting September 8 at Cole Haan stores.
