The Tour’s Sexiest Tournament

Sony Ericsson Open Concludes in Fine “Fashion”

For the past two weeks, the best events in Miami have been at the Sony Ericsson Open: fashion, celebrities, parties, fine dining and, oh yeah, a little bit of tennis was played as well.

Just prior to Andy Roddick’s thrilling three set, quarterfinal victory over world number-one Roger Federer, the tennis center at Crandon Park was aglow with social activity. Amidst the backdrop of a setting sun and brisk April breeze, the ultra-sexy Italian women’s line Blumarine completed the opening celebration of its flagship U.S. store at the Village of Merrick Park with a stunning runway show at the tournament’s Fashion Park.

“We showed a mixture of fashions from our Spring/Summer collection,” said Blumarine’s general manager Jorley Rotella, a Coral Gables native. “From swimsuits to evening-wear, we had a variety of textures and fabrics on display. Blumarine is perfect for Miami – a breath of fresh air.”

On hand were some of Miami’s most glamorous social ladies, including Norma Quintero, Sarah Arison and Marcia Martinez. “The show was amazing,” said Arison, “and the dress they used for the finale with the low back and sequins was beautiful.”

Also that evening, Sony Cierge, an invitation only membership program, hosted Sony BMG artist Jean at their on-site lounge. Actress Brittany Murphy and TV personality Star Jones were on-hand. Throughout the tournament the Sony Cierge lounge was where members and guests came to relax and experience the latest technology, including the ultra thin 3mm OLED televisions.

Across from the Sony Cierge lounge was the VIP action at the Collector’s Club, an exclusive venue that featured a chic restaurant with a hip bar and lounge. Miami’s beautiful people and power players enjoyed their pre-match happy hour in this stylish, indoor/outdoor setting. Seen dining were tournament founder Butch Buchholz and the legendary Bud Collins.

Fashion took center stage one last time the following evening as the Village of Merrick Park staged a gorgeous runway show just prior to men’s semi-final that featured Nikolay Davydenko’s win over Andy Roddick. The show highlighted the latest designs from around the world from Merrick Park’s exclusive merchants including Adolfo Dominguez, Astoria, Carlos Miele and Neiman-Marcus.

<% 'On hand were Merrick Park executives Maria Llorca and Mari Fernandez. “The show was very good,” said Llorca, director of marketing for Merrick Park and one of Miami’s foremost experts in fashion. “Our merchants who participated took this opportunity to show some of their finest pieces for both men and women. We couldn’t be happier about how this experience played out for our merchants and for the tennis fans who had the chance to experience a world-class fashion show in such a unique environment.” %> All of the elements of a top-notch happening came together throughout the 12 days of the Sony Ericsson Open. The tournament is a signature event for Miami and the organizers clearly understand the roles of luxury, glamour and fashion in this, the world’s sexiest city. So, farewell Sony Ericsson Open. It’ll be a long wait ’til next year.