Sharapova wins French Open for second time after beating Halep

Maria Sharapova won her second French Open title on Saturday but it was Romanian Simona Halep who claimed the hearts of the Roland Garros crowd after pushing the 27 year-old Russian to the brink of defeat.
Sharapova had to use every grain of her experience and fighting capabilities – plus some highly dubious stalling tactics – to complete a 6-4, 6-7, 6-4 victory that stretched to just over three hours on a steaming afternoon.
While lacking much variety it was a fine contest of baseline slugging and retrieving, only marred by the weak officiating of French umpire Kader Nouni, who failed to crack down on the timewasting that continually forced the Romanian to adjust her pace of play.

Aloft: Maria Sharapova holds her French Open trophy to show the crowd

Epic: Romanian Halep pushed her all the way in an epic match

Victor: Maria Sharapova wins her second French Open title after beating Romania's Simona Halep

Sharapova, who took an eight minute break to change her dress after losing the second set tiebreak, went two hours and 24 minutes before Nouni finally gave her a warning about taking too much time between points.
Nonetheless you can only admire her remarkable fighting instinct which saw her win her fourth three set match in succession and none more gruelling than this.
The 27 year-old Russian returns to Wimbledon in a fortnight ten years after winning the title there. You could hardly have expected then that she would win two Roland Garros trophies without adding to hear haul at SW19.
'I wouldn’t have believed seven or eight years ago that I would win here more than at any other Slam, it was like a dream for me to win here at all,' said the champion.

Business time: Sharapova and Halep entering the arena ahead of their French Open final

Pre-game: Sharapova and Halep pose for pictures at the net ahead of their showdown

Doubling up: Sharapova was aiming for her second French Open title, after winning there in 2012

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Arsenal Player of the Season- Aaron Ramsey

We're delighted to unveil the Arsenal.com Player of the Season, as voted by the fans - and it should come as no surprise that it's Aaron Ramsey!
The Wales midfielder had a magnificent campaign, scoring 16 goals in all competitions, and was the overwhelming winner with 58 per cent of the votes.
Arsenal reporter Rob Kelly gives his verdict on the 23-year-old.
“It's a massive year for him. He's had his injury problems but I think this season is definitely going to be Aaron's. Definitely."

When, last August, Theo Walcott was asked who the team’s star player might be during the upcoming campaign, no one quite realised just how prescient he would be. But his certainty, coupled with Aaron Ramsey’s prodigious pre-season form, indicated there was more to it than the mere backing of a close friend.

Questions remained: chiefly, could he ever be the player his talents suggested? Thirty-four appearances later, any doubts had been dispelled in the afterglow of a sensational season

Nine months, 16 goals, nine assists, four player of the month awards, one FA Cup winners’ medal and countless outstanding performances later and we now know it for sure: the season has been his. Definitely.

The story of Ramsey’s Arsenal career prior to this year is well known. Promising start, career-threatening injury, lengthy rehabilitation. Despite his encouraging end to the previous campaign, questions remained: chiefly, could he ever be the player his talents suggested? Thirty-four appearances later, any doubts had been dispelled in the afterglow of a sensational season.

“This year I've proven a lot of people wrong,” Ramsey said in March. “There was a tough time in the period after my injury but I've got through that and I feel really confident and feel like I'm improving with every game. I've been a lot more composed in front of goal and taking my chances.

"I think [to get to the next level] I need to go into the big games and really show my authority. Grab the game by the scruff of the neck and show everybody I can do it in the big matches on a consistent basis.”

He certainly did that at Wembley when Arsenal found themselves 2-0 down after just nine minutes of the FA Cup final. Santi Cazorla’s fabulous free-kick may have got them back into the game, but it was Ramsey’s energy, drive and intense will to win that helped shift momentum inexorably in the Gunners’ favour.

Those in the know say the 23-year-old’s GPS figures are “off the chart” and, as Hull City’s legs and minds started to tire on a warm day at Wembley, Ramsey took over.

Then, when his opportunity arrived, he showed no hesitation. One controlled swish of his right boot later and Arsenal were in pole position to win the FA Cup. It was a goal that encapsulated the new-found confidence and decisiveness that has marked a stellar season.

“I think you make more right decisions when you play with confidence,” Ramsey said earlier in the campaign. “If I think something is on and I can hit a 40-yard pass over the top for someone to run on to, I will still do that, but the decision-making is better.

“You feel sharper in your mind when you are confident. Things just seem to happen quicker. You understand things more clearly and things just seem to happen more naturally.”

A quiet, self-contained character by nature, Ramsey prefers to express himself where it really counts: on the pitch. Norwich City perhaps bore the brunt of the Wales international’s composure more than most: in October he scored a fine, twisting individual effort against them at the Emirates, in May he topped it with a sublime first-time volley that helped confirm their relegation.

He has no limitations in his improvement and he can be a complete midfielder, efficient defensively, efficient offensively. That's what real players are
Arsène Wenger

But those were far from the only entries on a packed highlights reel. A volley at Sunderland, a long-range effort against Liverpool, a controlled header at Cardiff City: Ramsey did it all. And he did it with the smile of a man who had arrived at a place he was destined to inhabit.

Throughout the tough times, one man had always stood behind him, never faltering in his belief that Ramsey would come good. Arsène Wenger always kept faith, and that faith has been rewarded.

“Let’s not forget that one year ago people were saying to me, ‘It’s difficult to play him at the Emirates’,” he said of his protégé. “You could see there was an impatience with him. As a manager you think, ‘Do I push him through and he can go more down or do you give him a breather to get him a fresh start?’ That’s always difficult to assess because it is linked to their mental state. When their own confidence is down, of course they are in trouble. But he is a confident boy.

“But you have to give him credit for that transformation - the credit goes to him because he could deal with that. He could come back, never give up and convince everybody that he has the needed quality.”

Now Wenger is convinced Ramsey can go to an even better level next season.

“He can defend, he can attack, he can score goals - what more do you want? And he's young. That shows you that he can develop more when you look at his improvement in the last two years, why should he stop now? He has no limitations in his improvement and he can be a complete midfielder, efficient defensively, efficient offensively. That's what real football players are.”

Ramsey is a "real football player". And he is deservedly the Arsenal Player of the Season.

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The Kc Exotic Ef-558 Edifice Watch

This summer, we've been talking about the best way to look stylish and stand out. And here's one for our guys, The Kc Exotic watch. It brings out the style in you and you can have some confidence on your wrist...if you know what I mean

You can get it from the Ask Us store today by clicking here.
You don't wanna miss out on this...do you?

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Flirty summer outfit ideas

Need to look flirty this summer, here are some ideas for you
Don't forget to drop your comments

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Latest in hair trends: Spring 2014 styles

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This season's must-have accessory trends

Fashion has taken another turn this season and you don't wanna be left out. Check on the pictures below and see which one suits your Style best.
Don't forget to drop your beautiful comments. .winks*

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Be the lady in red with Iggy's plunging scarlet bodycon dress

Never one to shy away from the cameras when it comes to donning risqué and downright bonkers outfits, Iggy Izalea once again gave her fans an eyeful as she slipped into this figure-hugging scarlet dress.
Proving that red is a winning shade when it comes to dressing for the new season, Iggy certainly embraced this hue, channelling some serious Jessica Rabbit vibes. Whether you style it down with a leather biker jacket and sandals or dress it up with sky high stilettos, this wardrobe staple is guaranteed to get you noticed.
So, if you’re keen to rock this eye-catching look now, we’ve done the leg work for you and chosen our favourite alternatives from the endless array of scarlet dresses out there.
Asos’ bold array of staples is perfect for those of you trying the trend for the first time and their mini bodycon dress (below) is a super cute way to work this shade into your evening wardrobe. Team with minimal jewellery and killer heels to maximise the impact.

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Update your work-out wardrobe with a pair of Nike Air Max

She might be pouting for the cameras rather than focusing on her squats, but at least Luisa Zissman looks the part in her head-to-toe Nike work-out kit.
With bikini season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to be stepping up our fitness regime. Think Abbey Clancy and Miranda Kerr in Victoria Secret leggings, that’s what we’re aiming for here.
And, it doesn’t matter if you’re running, skipping or taking up the trapeze, you will be requiring some snazzy gym kecks to get you in the mood. If, like us, your kit is more geek than chic however, it’s time to pick up the pace and invest in something new.
Versatile and super comfortable, Nike Air Max have been enjoying somewhat of a high fashion revival over the last few seasons with celebrities and fashion editors alike donning a pair for everything from attending fashion shows, to (rarely) exercising. So, if you’re keen to stay in style, invest in a pair of these bad boys to get to motivated.

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Shine on with a shimmering pencil skirt like Lauren

Lauren Silverman hasn't wasted any time getting her pre-baby bod back!
The socialite attended the Britain's Got Talent semi final looking trim and toned in a one shoulder top, black courts and a shimmering black pencil skirt.
Having been spotted on the runways at Saint Laurent, Altuzarra and Akris, shimmering chromatic looks were a strong feature at the Spring/Summer 2014 shows, and a pencil skirt like Lauren's is the perfect way to work the look.
Team your high shine skirt with glam tops like Lauren, or try dressing it down with a cashmere sweater or grey marl T-shirt.
Shop Lauren's look below, with iridescent pencil skirts new in at Topshop, Net A Porter, Missguided and Boohoo, with prices starting at just £15.

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Dress to impress with Alesha's pleated Versace gown

As our favourite Britain's Got Talent judge, we can always reply on the lovely Alesha Dixon to look super on point, and this elaborate Versace dress is no exception. Also owned by Lady Gaga, it features daring cutouts at the waist and heavy chain straps and embellishments. What a way to steal the spotlight from Lauren Silverman!
From Oscar De La Renta, Nina Ricci and Sonia Rykiel, to Sportmax, Zac Posen and Temperley London, designers everywhere went potty for pastels this season. So, if you’re keen to get ahead of the style set, now is the perfect time to be investing statement dress is a girly shade.
What's more, if you’ve got a few thousand pounds to space, you can pick up her exact dress by clicking through to FarFetch now!
Otherwise, fear not, our favourite high street brands are hot on the designer’s heels, with lilac dresses now in stock at Dorothy Perkins and Topshop. We’re really into AX Paris’ cutout dress (below), for a totally budget-friendly vibe. Style yours with a simple pair of heeled sandals for a cute evening look.

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Flash your pins with Kate Moss' sexy scallop shorts

Who likes short shorts? Stephanie Warings likes short shorts!
The Hollyoaks actress looked super trim and toned as she partied with co star Jorgie Porter, wearing an all black outfit with Kate Moss for Topshop scallop shorts, mesh top and peep toe heels.

Undoubtedly sparked by the Roaring Twenties trend, scallop edges have returned to the catwalks for Spring 2014, having been spotted adorning dresses, jackets, skirts, shorts and accessories at the new season shows of Georges Hobeika and Marchesa.
The great news about scallops is that thanks to their delicate detailing, they'll instantly make any outfit look more expensive. If you're thigh conscious, the clever chiffon hem will provide extra coverage, making shorts much less daunting, and they'll even flatter your pins in the process. Well, Mossy does know a thing or two about style!
Snap up Stephanie's shorts by clicking to the right - but click quick as something tells us these babies are going to fly!
Team with a button up blouse and lace up flats for a preppy look, with a slogan sweater and barely there heels for a sporty style, or you could even glam them up for parties with an embellished blouse.
If you miss the boat on Stephanie's shorts - fear not. The high street is awash with scallop shorts to suit all shapes - check out our favourites below.

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D-I-S-C-O! Get 70s fever with metallic platforms

Denise Van Outen flexed some serious fashion muscles for her 40th birthday bash!
Not only did the presenter wear a Marc By Marc Jacobs playsuit, but she also had a lust worthy Chanel bag and a pair of 70s inspired metallic platforms from designer footwear label Gianmarco Lorenzi, who counts Millie Mackintosh, Michelle Keegan and Beyonce as fans.
While the 90s have been this season's most talked about decade, the 70s disco era also made it's mark at the Spring 2014 shows.
From sequinned flares at Givenchy to high octane smock dresses at Christopher Kane, the new season shows were all about the disco glam.
A pair of power platforms like Denise's are the perfect way to trial the trend, and will look amazing with everything from little black dresses to skinny jeans, and even flippy skirts.
Click to the right to snap them up for yourself, or get the look for less below, with disco worthy platforms new in at Office, River Island, Kurt Geiger and Schuh.
David Bowie would be proud!

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Join the fashion pack and invest in Amber's cult boots

The little black dress, the skinny jeans, the biker jacket, the crisp white shirt. Fashions come and go, but some things remain on trend forever.
Case in point: Amber Heard's Acne pistol boots, which have become a cult classic in fashion circles having been lusted after by every fashion editor on the planet and worn by Keira Knightley, Michelle Williams and Clemence Poesy to name just a few.
With their curved heel and almond toe, these stylish boots will go with everything - team with skinny jeans, flippy dresses, city shorts, tailored trousers, structured skirts....the list is endless. We guarantee they'll be worth the investment. In fact on the Selfridges website they've said the boots are "a seasonless staple."
We couldn't of put it better ourselves if we tried!
Acne's boots come in a range of colours, including tan, white, beige, burgundy and blue, but Amber's kept it classic in sleek black.
Click to the right to shop them for yourself, or get the look below with stylish boots new in at Topshop, River Island, Office and Kurt Geiger.

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Spend it like Beckham with Brooklyn's bargain sneakers

He's fast becoming one of the world's trendiest teenagers.
But unlike his parents, who like to splash the cash on high end clothing, Brooklyn is much the same as any other person his age, with a uniform of skinny jeans, T-shirts and casual shoes.
Brooklyn's latest look is no exception as he was spotted out skateboarding with Chloe Grace Moretz (hold the phone...are they dating??) wearing a pair of grey canvas shoes from Vans.
In a season dominated by sporty trainers, it's all about combing style and comfort this Spring. But if you're looking for a slightly smarter style (that doesn't make you feel guilty for not using your gym membership) Oxford shoes like Brooklyn's are the perfect alternative.
In canvas fabric with lace ups, they're slightly smarter than a sneaker, but they'll still go with everything from jeans to chinos, shorts to...er...sarongs? Hopefully Brooklyn won't take after his dad on that front...
You can snap up Brooklyn's exact shoes at Schuh by clicking to the right, or see below for the best of the rest from Fred Perry, APC, Converse and River Island.

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Go nude... in heels like Kim Kardashian's

So it's all over. The wedding of the year is done and dusted and the bride is back from her honeymoon.
Kim Kardashian stepped off a plane in New York and is back to reality, quite literally. But, as ever, she looked chic and sophisticated in an all-black look that covered her famous curves. We're not always fans of Kim's overdone style but this casual ensemble is perfect for travel.
We've seen this blazer on her before. It's by one of her favourite labels, Balmain and is a rather fabulous leather take on the classic blazer and of course she wore the celebrity essential, a pair of oversized shades by Celine.
Kim is rarely seen without her heels and this pair are a staple style that she will no doubt wear time and again. They're by Saint Laurent and while they seem simple with a pointed toe and patent nude hue, their heel is gold, adding a touch of bling to an otherwise pared back look.
Sadly this 'Clara' shoe has sold out but the high street has tonnes of nude heels that will fit the bill with ease. Get a bargain at Asos or how about Kurt Geiger's Britton style? It has a metal heel like Kimmy's Saint Laurent originals.
Then wear with everything in your wardrobe. From jeans to your little black dress, this will be your most versatile shoe.

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Dress to impress in Halle Berry's flowing Elie Saab gown

We can always rely on the gorgeous Halle Berry to impress on the red carpet. The talented actress and Hollywood beauty has worn some of the most iconic dresses ever, including her sheer burgundy Elie Saab Oscars gown.
So it comes as no surprise that we were blown away, yet again, but this classic black Elie Saab number as she attended the Global Icon Film Awards last night. Featuring a seductive slit up the side, sheer panels and only one sleeve, this couture dress was guaranteed to turn heads on the red carpet.
Sadly we don’t all have a plethora of premieres and award ceremonies to attend this season (or ever), but if you’re keen to channel Halle’s evening look for your next black tie affair, shop our pick of the best one-shouldered dresses out there to find your perfect fit. We love Missguided’s budget-friendly array of wardrobe staples. Team their Pavtitra dress (below) with a pair of silver stilettos and a slick of red lipstick for maximum impact.

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Bloom into summer in a floral slip dress

Myleene Klass has got a new man. But the television presenter and classically trained musician hasn't got a new dress!
This pretty print sun dress is naturally from Myleene's own collection for Littlewoods (she's rarely seen in anything else) but it's from last summer's line. She was spotted wearing it this time last year but we love a celebrity who recycles their clothing. It makes them just like the rest of us...
But who can blame her for busting out this cute frock again? It's perfect for a sunny day and while it may be last year's, the print and cut are still totally on trend. And we have to say Myleene has styled it perfectly, opting for a battered pair of biker boots and a well cut androgynous coat to contrast against the feminine florals of the dress.
Sadly, last season means it's no longer available to buy but Myleene has designed a similar maxi dress for Littlewoods and you can check it out by clicking the link (right). It also incorporates a green, botanical print and camisole straps and will also work well with ankle boots.
Or keep it short and try one of the dresses we've found elsewhere. Free People can always be relied upon for bohemian blooms or we love Topshop's cute neon version.

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