Serena Williams will receive the “Fashion Icon” award at the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York next month. Williams became the first athlete to win the award; in recent years, the award has been awarded to Lenny Kravitz, Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez and Naomi Campbell.
CFDA Chairman Thom Browne said WWD“Serena is one of the most inspiring people in the world…a true individual…she is an icon in sports…representing greatness at the highest level…bringing fashion to another world…for another.” A spectator…always true to herself, on and off the field…the perfect marriage of our worlds…the ultimate example of individuality in everything she does…Serena is a true style icon.”
Williams, who has two daughters, Alexis and Adria, with husband Alexis Ohanian, is known for her dominance in the tennis world, on and off the court. Known for his style and entrepreneurial spirit. “Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve used fashion as an outlet to express myself — fashion gave me the confidence to go out on the court and acknowledge who I am and where I know I’m going,” retired Williams tennis tournament last year, said in a statement. “My dream of owning my own brand, S by Serena, has become a reality and throughout my career I have been lucky enough to work with the most established designers and the most exciting emerging creatives. I had a great time learning My style and letting it change as my life evolves, but I always stand by one thing: fashion is for everyone, no matter your size, race or income. I am extremely honored to receive the prestigious Fashion Icon Award from CFDA, an organization whose work I have long admired and ranks among the fashion icons I have always respected.”
The 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards, hosted by Sarah Jessica Parker, will be held on November 6 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
Emily Burack (she/her) is a news writer for Town & Country, covering entertainment, culture, royalty and a range of other topics. Before joining T&C, she was deputy managing editor of Hey Alma, a Jewish culture website. Follow her @emburack Twitter and Instagram.