ACE: A Fashion Revolution in Tennis
As a tennis fan and a fashion enthusiast, I was thrilled to delve into Sunita Kumar Nair's new book, ACE: The Times & Style of Tennis. It's not just a book; it's a fashion revolution, a celebration of the sport's dynamic style evolution, and a must-have for any tennis fan who loves fashion.
Kumar Nair, with her extensive background in fashion and sports, brings a unique perspective to the table. Her previous work, CBK: Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: A Life in Fashion, showcased her eye for elegance and modern restraint. In ACE, she takes on the challenge of documenting the history of tennis style, and she does so with remarkable success.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is how Kumar Nair navigates the intersection of fashion and sports. She recognizes that sportswear is not just about performance; it's about self-expression and empowerment. This realization is what sets ACE apart from other fashion books. It's not just about the clothes; it's about the players who wear them and the stories they tell.
The book is divided into sections that explore the sport's defining fashion moments, legendary players, and the designers who have shaped the look of the game. Each section is a treasure trove of insights, offering a fresh perspective on the sport's history. For instance, the section on Naomi Osaka's Australian Open dress is a must-read. It's not just about the dress; it's about the message it sent and the impact it had on the fashion world.
What makes ACE truly special is how Kumar Nair engages with the players. She interviews them, delves into their minds, and explores the psychological aspects of their fashion choices. This is what sets the book apart from other fashion histories. It's not just about the clothes; it's about the people who wear them and the stories they tell.
One of the most challenging aspects of writing ACE was knocking on the sports world's door. Kumar Nair had to convince sports brands and agents that she was serious about covering sportswear. But her background in fashion and her passion for the sport helped her overcome these challenges. She managed to get access to some of the most iconic sportswear designs, like Naomi Osaka's Australian Open dress.
The book is filled with fascinating insights, like the technicality of sportswear design and the innovations happening in sportswear fabrics. Kumar Nair's favorite part of writing the book was putting the players in categories and telling their stories. She wanted to showcase the psychological aspects of their fashion choices, and she succeeded.
Some of the most memorable interviews in the book are with players like Coco Gauff and Marta Kostyuk. Kumar Nair wanted to get a range of players to share their stories, and she succeeded. She also wanted to get Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, but they were unavailable. However, she managed to get access to some of the most iconic sportswear designs, like Adidas' Trefoil collection and New Balance's collaboration with Miu Miu.
The cover of ACE is a work of art in itself. Kumar Nair chose Robbie Lawrence's picture of Coco Gauff serving, which is both powerful and evocative. It's a perfect representation of the book's theme and a must-have for any tennis fan.
In conclusion, ACE is a fashion revolution in tennis. It's a must-have for any tennis fan who loves fashion and a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and style. Kumar Nair has done an exceptional job of documenting the history of tennis style, and her passion for the sport shines through in every page. So, grab a copy of ACE and embark on a fashion journey like no other.
