Tennis great Maria Sharapova may be logging hours on the court prepping for next week's U.S. Open, but the sporty blonde has been pulling double-duty these days, alternating between rackets and sketch pads for her collaboration with Cole Haan on a line of accessories.

"Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan" is a well-edited collection of handbags and footwear, which serves up stylish hobos and chic clutches, as well as shoes featuring Nike Air technology. To put it in tennis terms: "Love!"

The line is available online now at Colehaan.com and will hit Cole Haan stores and select online boutiques this fall. Best of all, it's reasonably priced at $248 - $428 for handbags and $138 - $328 for footwear.

Sharapova is set to officially unveil her debut collection for the legendary brand at tonight's launch party (6 pm ET) at Cole Haan's Rockefeller Center, NYC store.

Between courts and clutches, Sharapova made time to chat with StyleList about what inspired the collection and her favorite fashion designer of all time.

StyleList: How was it taking on the role of designer?

Maria Sharapova: Designing has been a great new component of my life. I'm known as a tennis player, but collaborating with Cole Haan is an opportunity that I am excited to embrace. I love the creative process, from the initial sketches to seeing the final product.

SL: What inspired you when it came to designing for the collaboration?

MS: I was inspired by my own lifestyle, and those of other young women. We lead busy lives, and need versatile chic pieces that go from day to night. With so much travel and a busy schedule, being able to pack a few essentials that are both functional and stylish is key.

SL: There are both heels and flats in your collection. When you're off the court, which do you prefer?

MS: Depends! For daytime, I love the ballet flats and over-the-knee boots from my collection. The ballet flats can be paired with pretty much anything I'm already wearing. For night, I definitely like to wear heels and dress up a little more.

SL: Have you always been a fan of fashion?

MS: Yes, I have always been interested in fashion and enjoy attending the [fashion] shows.

SL: Who are your favorite designers?

MS: I really admire the creativity and vision of many designers, but Marc Jacobs is my favorite.


For details on another tennis star hitting the style scene, click here.