Congratulations to Serena Williams!
On November 6, Williams became the first athlete to receive the Style Icon honor at the 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The event was hosted by Anne Hathaway, with previously announced hostess Sarah Jessica Parker “unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.” Hathaway intervened.
Williams wore a custom black sequined dress with bold black sleeves and train designed by CFDA Chairman Thom Browne.
We love the drama in the background!
“Through fashion, we truly have the opportunity to draw our own tapestry and share our unique perspective with the world,” Williams said in her acceptance speech, according to USA Today.
Close friend Kim Kardashian presented the award to Williams, Beyonce, Naomi Campbell, Rihanna and Zendaya. Express yourself – Fashion gives me the confidence to go out on the court and acknowledge who I am and know where I’m going. “
Williams’ bold fashion has made her a target for some critics, but the tennis champion (who won a record 23 Grand Slam titles during her career) also attended fashion school and launched a number of clothing series, including her Aneres series, and most recently the S by Serena series, and announced a new collaboration with Nike this fall.
During her speech, Williams also talked about “reimagining traditional tennis attire” with a “denim skirt,” wearing a “purple tutu, leotards and knee-high boots, and wearing beads in her hair and braids.”
“I stand with you today, not just as an athlete, but as a person who has experienced firsthand the extraordinary power of fashion,” Williams said.
In addition to Williams, a lot of our favorites were in attendance. We’re excited to share some of our favorite looks.
The legendary Bethann Hardison has always been a wonder to watch.
Teyana Taylor attended with designer Christopher John Rogers
Teyana is always a killer…we predict she will win some CFDA awards in the future as well.
Lori Harvey also never fails to amaze us. This look is Luar.
Another Luar look from Law Roach also caused quite a stir. Do you hate it or love it?
Winnie Harlow showed off her chic short hair in a Marc Jacobs gown.
Mary J. Blige didn’t play with you guys…their curves took a sudden turn on Monday night and of course Christian Siriano was the artist responsible!
Speaking of curves, Kim K always makes sure photographers get the best angles.
By the way, this is what Chrome Hearts looks like.
Kim and Serena appeared on the CFDA podium with La La Anthony, who wore a bold brown look from Saint Sintra.
Do you like Jordyn Woods’ soft pink Azeeza dress and Jimmy Choo shoes?
While most attendees wore black or white, Saweetie made a splash in a Cult Gaia straw gown.
Now that’s fashion!
Speaking of which – did anyone see Westside Gunn coming like this? Of course we don’t.
The men really outdid themselves. Lil Yachty stepped out in Thom Browne and looked gorgeous.
Lakeith Stanfield stopped by in an Amiri look.
Rosario Dawson wore a white Mara Hoffman dress with red ruffled booties.
Wisdom Kaye also won the best work of the night from Thom Browne.
Willy Chavarria designed the menswear designer honors for Tokischa and Rauw Alejandro for the event.
Ayesha Curry and Aurora James both wore Diotima to events, and notably, Diotima designer Rachel Scott won the Emerging Designer honor at Monday night’s event.
Ayo Edibiri appeared in an all-black Loewe suit.
Quinta Brunson paired it with a cream fringed Tanya Taylor dress.
What were your favorite looks from the CFDA Fashion Awards? Which one do you dislike? Be sure to leave a comment below!