SHOPPING BAG 
Today, Fila and James Blake will launch the Thomas Reynolds Collection, a co-branded collaboration inspired by the ATP world Tour tennis star’s life and interests. Blake will debut the fall 2009 Thomas Reynolds collection during his first match at the US Open. Fila’s international design team joined forces with Blake to develop the collection of apparel, footwear and accessories which incorporates the design heritage of the Fila brand with a contemporary twist inspired by Blake’s signature style. The Thomas Reynolds logo was designed by James.
James spent several months searching for the name for the brand for the collection. In the end, he selected the name Thomas Reynolds, which is the first and middle name of his father. James often refers to his father as a superhero and so it is not surprising that his name was chosen for the brand. After months of working with Fila’s design team, Fila and James Blake will launch Thomas Reynolds this week in New York.
According to Blake, “I wanted to create a line with Fila because I have learned a lot about tennis fashion throughout my career. I felt that I could create a line that is functional and stylish both on and off the court. Collaborating with Fila and their long history in tennis and sportswear made sense. It was the perfect fit!”
Fila and James Blake will partner with Lord & Taylor and Tennis magazine to launch the collection tonight in New York. James will greet fans and sign autographs in the Thomas Reynolds concept shop at Lord & Taylor on Fifth Avenue on Thursday, August 27th at 6pm. The VIP launch event to unveil the line will feature DJ Sky Nellor and be held on the 11th floor Terrace at Lord & Taylor the same evening.
“I wanted the line to be more transitional,” said Blake, “and include styles that can be worn on-court, yet are stylish enough to wear for a night out.”
Thomas Reynolds is also available at Dicks Sporting Goods, Paragon Sports, Mason’s Tennis Mart, Tennniswarehouse.com, fila.com and select specialty retailers nationwide.
http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2009/08/James-Blake-Clothing-Line.aspx
