Serena Williams Turns Heads in Sculpted Stella McCartney Gown
Serena Williams brought high fashion and unmatched confidence to the 2025 TIME 100 Gala. She arrived in a black cut-out dress designed by Stella McCartney that hugged her curves perfectly. The bold, futuristic design featured horizontal slits and an off-the-shoulder neckline that gave the dress a powerful edge.
She completed the look with sheer gloves, a dazzling diamond necklace, and flawless glam. Her honey-blonde hair was styled half-up, half-down, and her makeup glowed with rich contouring and a soft neutral lip. Serena reminded everyone why she’s not just a tennis legend, but also a fashion icon.
Simone Biles Glows in Oscar de la Renta Mini Dress
Simone Biles was a vision of beauty and grace in a strapless mini dress by Oscar de la Renta. The nude base of the gown was covered in a detailed black floral wire overlay, creating a striking mix of soft and strong. Her silver heels and sleek middle-part hairstyle pulled the look together perfectly.
Beyond the dress, Simone stood tall as a symbol of strength and purpose. She’s the most decorated gymnast of all time and a fierce advocate for athlete mental health. TIME honored her not just for her achievements in sports, but for changing how athletes speak about mental well-being.
Black Women Lead the Way on the Red Carpet
It wasn’t just Serena and Simone who wowed. Other powerful Black women also owned the spotlight at the TIME 100 Gala. Journalist Abby Phillip wore a glowing white sequin gown with long sleeves and a high neck. The gown sparkled under the lights, while Abby kept the focus on her dress with soft waves and minimal jewelry.
WNBA star Napheesa Collier brought fire in a silver gown with a plunging neckline and an open back. Her figure-hugging dress turned heads, showing that athleticism and elegance go hand in hand. Napheesa’s relaxed ponytail and silver accessories added the perfect touch.
More Celebrities Bring the Style Game
While Black women led the charge, other stars also came dressed to impress. Jalen Hurts, the NFL MVP, wore a taupe oversized suit with a white tee underneath. His black dress shoes and gold chain added an extra dose of cool.
Artist Mickalene Thomas gave a twist to red carpet fashion in a navy blue tailored suit with combat boots and a baseball cap. Her structured handbag and bold shades added edge to her polished look. Meanwhile, Gayle King stunned in a mint green draped gown by Black Halo, proving that elegance never goes out of style.
The Power Behind the Fashion
What made the night special wasn’t just the clothes—it was the meaning behind them. Serena, Simone, and the others weren’t just showing up for photos. They were showing up as leaders. Whether through sports, art, journalism, or style, they are shaping how the world sees Black women.
Serena continues to inspire by balancing motherhood, business, and beauty with grace. Simone redefines courage by putting mental health on center stage. Napheesa, Abby, Mickalene, and Gayle each bring their own brand of brilliance to the red carpet—and to the world.
