Venus Williams has been a household name in the world of tennis for over two decades now. The American athlete has dominated the sport with her powerful serve, exceptional footwork, and a fierce determination to win. But apart from her impressive skills on the court, Venus has also been a fashion icon, making bold and daring fashion choices that have left a lasting impact on the world of sports and beyond.
One of her most iconic looks was during her teenage years, when she burst onto the scene in the late 90s and early 2000s. At the young age of 17, Venus wowed the world with her colorful beaded braids, a look that became synonymous with her name and her game. Her vibrant and rhythmic hairstyle was a reflection of her free-spirited and confident personality, and it quickly became a trend among young girls and women all over the world.
Venus first sported her beaded braids at the 1997 US Open, where she made it to the final but lost to her younger sister Serena. However, it was at the 2000 Wimbledon that her hairstyle truly stole the show. Venus not only won the title, but she also made a fashion statement that would be remembered for years to come. She paired her beaded braids with a striking white and gold outfit, creating a look that was both powerful and elegant.
But as Venus entered her thirties and forties, her fashion choices evolved, just like her game. She continued to make bold and daring fashion statements, but with a more refined and sophisticated touch. And her latest appearance at the 2021 Met Gala was a perfect example of that.
Venus graced the red carpet in a stunning black and white ensemble by Lacoste, a brand she has been associated with for many years. The outfit was a modern take on the traditional black dandyism, a style that originated in the 19th century among African American men. Venus added her own twist to the look by incorporating her love for bold colors, with a bright yellow inner shirt and a pair of striking blue heels.
But what caught everyone’s attention was the brains behind Venus’ Met Gala look – her stylist, Roachford. The two have been working together for many years, and Roachford has been instrumental in shaping Venus’ style and helping her make a statement both on and off the court. In an interview, Venus revealed that she wanted to pay homage to black dandyism with her Met Gala look and Roachford helped her achieve that with his creative vision and impeccable styling skills.
Venus’ bold fashion choices have always been a way for her to express herself and make a statement. And with her Met Gala look, she not only paid tribute to a significant fashion movement but also celebrated her roots and identity as a black woman. In a world where diversity and representation are still lacking in many industries, Venus continues to use her platform and influence to break barriers and bring about change.
Apart from her fashion sense, Venus has also been an advocate for body positivity and self-love. She has inspired many with her confidence and unapologetic attitude towards her body, proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. She has also been actively involved in various charitable causes, using her success to give back to society and make a positive impact.
At the age of 41, Venus Williams continues to be a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the court. She is a role model, not just for aspiring athletes, but for anyone who wants to break stereotypes and make a mark in the world. Her fashion choices may have evolved over the years, but her spirit and determination to make a statement remain the same. And that is what makes Venus Williams a true icon, on and off the court.
