Vogue Australia: Maria talks Style

By Carmen Hamilton

Vogue spoke to the entrepreneurial tennis champion about her sense of style that extends far beyond the court.

Carmen Hamilton: How do you choose an outfit for a big event, both on and off court?
Maria Sharapova: Off court, it usually depends on the event. I've had a few Sugarpova launches in the last few months so a lot of the things I've worn have been quite colourful and fun to go with the personality of the candy. For an event during the evening, I would go towards something like Alexander McQueen. I love working with Sarah Burton. I think she's incredible. It's been really amazing to see her creations come alive. Overall, I usually try to go for something more feminine and elegant.

CH: Will you be attending any of the shows this season?
MS: It depends how things work out with my schedule so it's usually a very last minute decision for me. Last year, after the Aussie Open, I flew to New York by myself and went to a few shows. Actually, Vogue invited me so that was really nice because I felt like I was very independent. I went to Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta and Rodarte.

CH: Many women would love to have your figure and your height. Do you have any style tips for taller women?
MS: I wear a lot of flats - I love gladiators. I don't like to follow trends too much because they come and go. I think it's about finding what looks good on your body. I feel like I can pull off long, wide leg trousers more, especially when they're high waisted. I love that type of look. Also, when I'm wearing pants or skinny jeans, I try to wear a longer top so the proportions look right.

CH: Tell me about your partnership with Tag Heuer, and why you chose to collaborate with the brand.
MS: Tag Heuer was one of the first brands who wanted to work together after I won Wimbledon and we've had a partnership ever since. It's been many years, since 2005 I believe, and I've really enjoyed it because I think we have the same attitude towards the things we do.

CH: You've also delved into accessory design with Tag Heuer. In your opinion, what makes the perfect accessory?
MS: The perfect accessory is one that will take you through the day and into the evening. My lifestyle involves a lot of travelling, so usually I only take one watch with me. Most of the time, it's actually a men's watch. It's such a statement piece, but I can wear it in the day and at night, and because I'm quite tall I feel like I can pull off a bigger watch. 

CH: Finally, how does one pick the perfect watch? Do you have any tips?
MS: I think it's really based on your lifestyle and what is important to you. For me, it's about versatility. I want something I feel comfortable in at all times, whether I'm in my Nike clothes or out to dinner with friends.