A Glam Slam

A GLAM SLAM INTERVIEWS WNBA'S CAPPIE PONDEXTER

A Glam Slam first introduced you to Cappie Pondexter via Who’s Haute. Not only is she one of the WNBA’s biggest and brightest stars, but the New York Liberty point guard is a total fashionista.

A Glam Slam spoke with Cappie at the Blend Showroom in New York City, where this Lady Liberty dished on her style consulting firm, favorite designers and her future in fashion. Take a look:

• Follow A Glam Slam (@HeatherZeller) & Cappie Pondexter (@cappa23; @4SeasonStyleMgt) on twitter
• Visit A Glam Slam’s FB fan page here and Cappie Pondexter’s FB fan page here and become our newest fans

- Glam Gal -

PGA FASHION UPDATE: BOXER BRIEFS THAT ARE WELL ABOVE PAR

Golfers will do anything to maximize the potential of their game and gain an edge over the competition. While there have been improvements in clubs and balls to help with their golf swing, there's an area that still has room for improvement, yet is often neglected. Undergarments.

Long, hot days of 18-hole golf mean you need to take that extra step to be comfortable in your on-course fashions. So a word of advice to male golfers: "Get Your Slix On." 

Touted by the brand as "the greatest boxer brief ever made," the Slix Closer is a revolutionary brief that combines comfort, style and function, fashion factors that are necessary for the success of professional athletes. The sleek design and performance benefits of Slix are a far cry from traditional cotton boxer briefs. The underwear eliminates the need to constantly adjust your undergarments (and subject your fans to those adjustments). But the real secret to its success seems to be the fabric, which allows for breathability and wickability (absorbs perspiration), eliminates chafing and moves as you move so you can focus on the game without any fuss. 

These briefs will set you back $24, a low price to pay to improve your game. You can get a pair here.

 

If you're still in doubt, the guys of the PGA Tour can attest that these skivvies help your game when you hit the green. One of the brand's biggest fans is golfer, John Daly, who has said "Slix boxer briefs are the most ridiculously comfortable boxer briefs I’ve ever put on. When I've got my Slix on, it's all good." 

And while he may not have a six pack as delicious as Cristiano Ronaldo, Daly stripped down for the brand when he appeared in their underwear ads. Sexy? You be the judge. At the very least, the Slix are a much better fashion choice for Daly, whose eclectic style is often characterized by outrageous pants like these.

 

- Glam Gal -

TAMPA BAY RAYS HIT THE RUNWAY

Evan Longoria sported a faux-hawk and shades, Matt Garza "twirled" down the catwalk and Carlos Pena rocked a tight, white pair of Joe's jeans. They may be one of best teams in the Major Leagues but for one night, the Tampa Bay Rays' biggest stars traded in their baseball uniforms for designer duds. 

The "Rays on the Runway" charity fashion show was hosted by The Rays Wives and Nordstrom. Together with their significant others, the players and coaches modeled the season's hottest fashions for men and women at Tampa's Nordstrom International Plaza.

While it was a definitely a fun way to see these guys out of their element, this fashion and sports was event was for a good cause. The show also featured five young girls from The Children's Dream Fund who got the chance to join some of the single Rays players as they strutted their stuff down the runway. The fashion showcase raised money to benefit the organization as well.

These Rays sure clean up nice. Take a look:

 

(Photo courtesy of The Daily Loaf)

Tampa Bay Rays' Ben Zobrist and wife, Juliana.

(Photo courtesy of The Daily Loaf)

Tampa Bay Rays' third baseman, Evan Longoria.

(Photo courtesy of The Daily Loaf)

Tampa Bay Rays' pitcher, Matt Garza.
 

   
 
  (Photo courtesy of The Daily Loaf)

Tampa Bay Rays' first baseman Carlos Pena and wife, Pam.

- Glam Gal -

THE WORLD'S MOST FASHIONABLE SOCCER BALL

Fashion and sports have merged in more ways than one when it comes to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Many fans thought the Louis Vuitton carrying case for the trophy might be a bit over-the-top, but it has been outdone. 

Santiago Gonzalez (of Nancy Gonzalez accessories) created an exclusive set of soccer balls made of crocodile skin. And crocodile skin means a very hefty price tag. Designed especially for Harrod's, these fashionable footballs sold for a whopping $5,200. Each featured a brown and black or classic white and black color scheme and came nestled atop their own pedestal. In other words, this is not the type of ball you'd be kicking around the backyard.

Only ten of these gems were created and they are already sold out. So who would shell out all that dough? This one's got Victoria Beckham written all over it.

 

- Glam Gal -

REEBOK UNVEILS JOHN WALL'S SIGNATURE SHOE

John Wall was the first pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. And the newest member of the Washington Wizards is also the top pick when it comes to endorsement deals.

The future NBA star already has a multiyear contract with Reebok, a five-year deal reported to be worth $25 million. He was officially added to the brand's roster of athletes with the unveiling of his signature shoe, the Reebok ZigTech Slash. Wall joins athletes including NFL star Chad Ochocinco and Ultimate Fighter, Chuck Liddell, who are already ZigTech ambassadors. Reebok hopes the decision to work with Wall will increase the brand's presence in the sport of basketball and differentiate themselves from sneaker competitors with the technology offered in these training shoes.

Wall's new kicks feature a black base with bright blue accents and a blue ZigTech bottom. They will officially launch at retail on October 15th.

 

The brand campaign will include TV, in-store and social media components. Wall's first ZigTech commercial aired on Thursday, during the NBA Draft. Take a look:

- Glam Gal -

SUITS (AND MORE) OF THE NBA DRAFT

Bright lights, a big stage, happy tears...oh and bold, pinstriped suits. Yes, last night was the 2010 NBA Draft.

For many players, dreams come true on this night. But as they prepare for one of the most important days of their lives, you'd think these rookies would be a bit more tasteful with their fashions. Wrong. These guys have bright futures and many times, even brighter suits. In fact, some draft suits have been so bad, they've overshadowed the teams that each player will be wearing the next season. Case in point: Jalen Rose, Joakim Noah and Steve Nash.

While there were certainly some fashion victims and fashion victors last night, the styles overall were not quite as wild and crazy as they've been in past years. And while dark suits were the trend, there were still some surprising colors and patterns in the mix.

Let's break it down. Here are A Glam Slam's NBA Draft Fashion Awards:

Best Dressed: John Wall (Washington Wizards, PG)

 

The #1 pick is #1 on the fashion front. It was no surprise to NBA fans when Wall was drafted first, to the Wizards. And he dressed accordingly. The dark pinstriped suit paired with a light blue shirt and striped tie were cool and sharp enough to make him stand out, without going overboard.

Worst Dressed: Wesley Johnson (Minnesota Timberwolves, SF)

 

This one needs no explanation. Sorry Wes.

Best Accessory: Al Faroq's Aminu's (Los Angeles Clippers, SF) Eyewear

 

If you ask anyone what Al Faroq was wearing last night they probably wouldn't remember. That's because his glasses took center stage. And took up most of his face. The oversized, geeky-chic specs were without a doubt the best accessory of the night.

Most surprising use of color, but in a good way: Xavier Henry (Memphis Grizzlies, SG)

 

Typically when we're talking colors in relation to NBA draft suits, it's related to something gone wrong. But Henry's solid lime green-colored tie and green and white striped shirt were surprisingly a nice match for his gray suit.

Suits most likely to be worn at a Bar Mitzvah: Gordon Heyward (Utah Jazz, SF) & Luke Babbitt (Minnesota Timberwolves, SF)

 
 
Even better than this award itself is the fact that there were two winners. Perhaps it has something to do with their boyish looks, but the dark suits paired with a blue and white color scheme, scream 13-year old boys rather than NBA rookies. 

Coolest Tie: Greg Monroe (Detroit Pistons, PF)

Monroe's overall look is super sleek but the tie definitely makes the outfit. The gold base with dark accents gets two thumbs up from A Glam Slam.

Ugliest Tie: Derrick Favors (New Jersey Nets, PF)

Yes it's Summertime, but Favors' paisly orange tie looks like it was literally cut right out of a bathing suit. A Glam Slam is a fan of Favors' since he'll be heading to the Nets next season, but as for the tie, not so much.

Light Suit Mafia: Paul George (Indiana Pacers, SF); Patrick Patterson (Houston Rockets, PF)

 
 
Apparently these guys didn't get the pre-draft memo: dark suits were the trend this year. Their lighter fashion choices were certainly questionable but give them some credit for making an effort to stand out.

While the primary focus was on the future NBA stars last night, "the worst overall" honors actually go to draft analysts, Jon Barry and Jeff Van Gundy. 

Jon Barry's suit in multiple shades of brown with yellow accents looked like it came straight out of the 1970's. And Jeff Van Gundy's golden clown tie ruins his entire look. File this one under: guys, what were you thinking?

 
 

- Glam Gal -

WHO'S HAUTE? THURSDAYS: FERNANDO TORRES

Fernando Torres is one of the top players in the world of football. Nicknamed "El Nino" ("The Kid") because of his success at such a young age and his youthful looks, the striker is definitely not known for a cookie-cutter style of play. Former Spanish national coach, Luis Aragones, has even said he “never scores two goals the same." Currently Torres plays for the Premier League Club Liverpool and the Spanish National Team, where he is leading the boys in their quest for the coveted World Cup trophy. Though they fell short in their game against Switzerland, Torres helped his team bounce back to defeat Honduras and now they are ready to take on Chile tomorrow.

The football superstar also taken center stage when it comes to endorsements. On the fashion front, you might have seen Torres hawking the Nike Total 90 Laser III football boot or starring in the menswear campaign for Spanish fashion line, El Corte Ingles. Or maybe you recognize him from the humorous and popular Pepsi ad where he had a leading role. Or was it his foray into banking with an ad for Banco Gallego and investor relations company, Aviva? Bottom line, this guy is everywhere, both on and off the field.

But more rewarding than scoring goals or shooting commercials for Torres was becoming a dad. He married his childhood sweatheart, Olalla Dominguez and the two welcomed a baby girl last year. He may be young and he may be "hot" but ladies, this guy is a total family man.

Fernando Torres is Who's Haute.

   
 

- Glam Gal -
 

MONCLER GOES CYCLING AT MILAN FASHION WEEK

While most of the world has been focused on the World Cup in South Africa, more than 5,000 miles away, there is another group of men on a big stage. It's Men's Fashion Week in Milan.

The world's top designers are showcasing their Spring/Summer 2011 collections. And what would men's fashion week be without the influence of sports? In the past we've seen everything from a bloody, boxing- themed runway show from Jean Paul Gaultier to a hockey-themed show from D2Squared.

This time around the French brand, Moncler, chose the sport of cycling. The bicycle-themed Moncler RTW Spring/Summer 2011 show took place at the legendary Vigorelli Velodrome football stadium. The show featured bicycle bells and vintage cycling footage shown on a big screen against this amazing backdrop. And after walking a lap, the models even took to their bicycles for a ride around the catwalk, or stadium track.

The new collection itself was actually a collaboration with Brooks Brothers, a seemingly odd pairing. But Thom Brown's Moncler Gamme Bleu line featured suits, windbreakers over cardigans, capes and "short pants," all paying homage to the sport of cycling in a unique, stylish and functional way.

Check out the video footage below, of the Moncler Gamme Bleu cycling runway show:

        

 

- Glam Gal -

NIKE DOMINATES THE ON-COURT CATWALK AT WIMBLEDON

Venus Williams turned heads with her black lace ensemble at the French Open and Rafael Nadal and his $525,000 Richard Mille watch won the tournament title. 

The next tennis Grand Slam, Wimbledon, is now in full swing with one big difference: a unique, all-white dress code. While a bit of decorative piping is usually permitted, large swatches of color are out. The rules are so strict that a selection of white shirts are even kept in the referee's room should an official deem a player's attire inappropriate.

But the all-white restrictions don't mean players have to sacrifice their on-court style. In fact, it is just the opposite. The Times of London reported that collectively, clothing sponsors have put a record five million pounds (about $7.4 million) into the clothes top female players will wear at Wimbledon this year. And the biggest spender of all is Nike.

Nike has designed fashions for Maria Sharapova, Serena Williams and Li Na, as well as male favorites Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Let's break down their Wimbledon attire and the story behind each look:

Maria Sharapova

  

Sharapova's "Lawn Rose" dress was inspired by English rose petals. She was very involved with the design process, with a result that features a combination of the brand's Dri-FIT jersey and Dri-FIT mesh.

Rafael Nadal

 

 

Nadal's "Vamos Lawn Crew" look features a slimmer silhouette and the "Vamos Mesh Shorts" incorporate a mesh gusset for breathability.

Serena Williams

 

Williams' "Control Lawn Dress" is inspired by the tournament tradition of strawberries and cream. A pop of color is added to the feminine yet sporty look, via "Voltage Cherry" colored piping. It's a far cry from the bold fashions typically sported by Serena. And let's hope that piping does not receive a Wimbledon fashion violation.

Li Na
 
 

Na, China's top-ranked tennis player, will hit the court in a Dri-FIT top and skirt with a touch of pink piping.

Roger Federer
 
  

Federer, the defending Wimbledon champion, will hit the grass in the "Victory Lawn Polo" and the "Victory Lawn Woven Shorts" which have been tailored to his exact specifications. Both pieces exude a classic, traditional style, perfect for the Wimbledon setting.

- Glam Gal -

WORLD CUP FASHION WINNERS

For months now, A Glam Slam has shared a wide range of World Cup merchandise for fans. Companies took advantage of the most popular and widely viewed sporting event in the world, creating fashion and accessories to coincide with the games. From sportswear giants like Adidas and Nike to couture fashion houses like Roberto Cavalli and Louis Vuitton, designers were definitely inspired by the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

A Glam Slam's has compiled the top 10 pieces of fashionable World Cup merchandise. Take a look:

Havaianas World Cup Flip Flops

 

 

LF Stores World Cup Tees

 

 
 

Ralph Lauren Modern Field World Cup Polos

 

Armani FIFA World Cup Bags

   

 

ToyWatch World Cup Jelly Watch Collection

     

 
 

Dolce & Gabbana Calcio Underwear

 

 

Oakley World Cup Sunglasses

 

 

Adidas Originals South Africa Track Jacket

 

 

Nike Artistic World Cup Kicks

Y-3 2010 World Cup Collection

  

 

 
 

- Glam Gal -