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The WNBA Draft, once merely a procedural event where teams select young talent, has transformed into a vibrant showcase for emerging fashion trends and personal style statements. No longer confined to traditional red carpet events, this annual pre-season ceremony now serves as a platform for athletes to express their individuality through fashion, drawing attention from prominent design houses and the media alike.
In the 2024 draft, Angel Reese made headlines by collaborating with Vogue fashion editor Naomi Elizée, debuting an ensemble that brought Met Gala-level glamour to the occasion. Additionally, Caitlin Clark etched her name in history as the first basketball rookie to don a Prada outfit for the draft, further establishing the event as a budding fashion hub. This evolution highlights not only the athletes’ rising star power within the fashion sphere but also the WNBA’s expanding influence in the world of style.
Fashion brands are increasingly recognizing the potential of the WNBA’s draft day as a marketing opportunity. Coach announced a multiyear partnership with the league on draft day, outfitting select players. Paige Bueckers, for instance, displayed a stunning crystal-encrusted suit from Coach’s Stuart Vevers, embodying the fashion-forward ethos of this new generation of athletes. Other young players, such as Aziaha James, have similarly engaged professional stylists to elevate their looks for the occasion.
Stylist Sydney Bordonaro remarks on the current landscape, noting how social media has empowered this new wave of athletes in their approach to personal branding. “They’re fearless,” Bordonaro states, emphasizing that these players are keenly aware of how to make impactful fashion statements. The diversity in style encourages a wide spectrum of looks, from bold and daring to chic and classic, as athletes showcase their personalities on the orange carpet.
The event has seen a remarkable array of innovative fashion choices. This includes eye-catching trends, such as plunging neckline gowns and bold, braless pantsuits. As the league’s visibility expands, so have the capabilities of its athletes to challenge traditional gender norms surrounding style.
Paige Bueckers’ Crystal-Studded Suit
For the 2025 draft, Bueckers, the No. 1 pick, opted for a three-piece suit adorned with an impressive 200,000 crystals, designed by Coach’s Stuart Vevers. Following the draft, she further showcased her fashion sensibility in a striking black suit by Louis Vuitton, making a powerful statement on and off the court.
Azzi Fudd’s Sheer Black Dress
Still active in college basketball, UConn’s Azzi Fudd attended the draft to support her teammate, demonstrating her emerging style with a sheer little black dress by Christopher Esber, styled by Brittany Hampton, that turned heads with its elegance.
Saniya Rivers’ Deconstructed Look
Saniya Rivers captured attention with her avant-garde ivory pantsuit, curated by stylist Golden. The standout accessory—a custom-painted Hermès Birkin bag boasting the phrase “THE WNBA BEEN POPPIN”—added a playful twist to her fashion-forward appearance.
Aziaha James’ Punk-Inspired Ensemble
Aziaha James showcased a unique blend of punk and femininity with her harem-style suit, featuring details that exude confidence and attitude. Her look, styled by Bordonaro, has been compared to iconic figures like Allen Iverson, highlighting her ability to blend influences seamlessly.
Angel Reese’s Dazzling Dress
The excitement surrounding Angel Reese escalated before the 2024 draft when she made waves by announcing her decision to enter the WNBA early. She arrived at the event in a striking silver hooded dress designed by Bronx & Banco, a choice that showcased her bold style and stage presence.
Caitlin Clark’s Luxe Prada Ensemble
Caitlin Clark’s striking Prada outfit featured a luxurious satin skirt and a matching jacket over an eye-catching rhinestone bra. Bordonaro noted the significance of a storied fashion house like Prada dressing a basketball player, elevating the event’s prestige in the fashion realm.
Cameron Brink’s Fashion-Forward Cutouts
Cameron Brink made a powerful impression in a Balmain gown that featured artful cutouts and dramatic detailing, securing her reputation as one of the league’s most stylish athletes.
Kamilla Cardoso’s Bold Red Suit
Kamilla Cardoso commanded attention with a fiery red pantsuit by MinhLe, showcasing her confidence and unique style philosophy on the draft stage.
DiDi Richards’ Chic Statement
Noting her ongoing commitment to fashion since her own draft, DiDi Richards exhibited her style evolution in a sophisticated ensemble that merged street chic with high fashion, signaling her influence in the league’s style narrative.
Haley Jones’ Velvet Significance
Haley Jones left a lasting impression with her elegant velvet set by Sergio Hudson, a design that captured the draft’s essence of style and sophistication.
Zia Cooke’s Glamorous Gown
In 2023, Zia Cooke dazzled in a crystal-encrusted gown by Albina Dyla, complete with a striking keyhole cutout that embraced glamour while fitting perfectly within the draft’s upscale atmosphere.
As the WNBA continues to garner increased attention from fashionistas and large brands alike, the draft has become a pivotal event where athletes define themselves beyond their sports careers, transforming the intersection of athletics and style into a bold statement of empowerment and self-expression.
Source
www.bustle.com