Paris, known for its fashion extravaganzas, witnessed the graceful presence of Serena Williams, the legendary 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, at this year's Paris Fashion Week. While a Netflix series titled "Serena in Paris" might not be in the works just yet, Williams certainly made waves as she graced the shows of two renowned fashion houses: Balmain and Off-White.
At the Balmain show, alongside notable figures like singer Cher and actress Ashley Park, Williams exuded elegance in a black midi dress accentuated with a striking white rose motif down the front. The event was a star-studded affair, resonating with the essence of high fashion.
Later, at the Off-White show, Williams found herself amidst a gathering of fashion icons, including models Alessandra Ambrosio and Ashley Graham, as well as recording artists Halle Bailey and Willow Smith. Among the attendees was actress Lisa Rinna, adding to the glamour of the occasion.
While Williams had the opportunity to preview the upcoming fall and winter collections of these esteemed brands, her connection with Off-White runs deeper. Founded by the late Virgil Abloh, a close friend of Williams, the brand holds a special place in her heart. Abloh, who tragically passed away in 2021, collaborated with Nike to design Williams' iconic match clothes for major tournaments like the US Open and the French Open. Notably, he also created a bespoke pair of Nike Air Force 1s for Williams to wear at the 2019 Met Gala.
In a poignant tribute to Abloh's legacy, Williams walked the runway during Paris Fashion Week in February 2022. This year, she honored him once more on social media, sharing images of her attire for the event along with the hashtag #VirgilForever.
During the Off-White show, Williams engaged in lighthearted banter with The People Gallery, a prominent fashion TikTok account managed by Brooklyn-based stylist Maurice Kamara. Offering a nugget of style wisdom, Williams encouraged individuals to embrace their uniqueness and authenticity.
"My style tip is simple: be yourself. Embrace who you are, and be comfortable with it," she remarked. "It's perfectly fine to stand out. Just be true to yourself."
Williams' presence at Paris Fashion Week not only underscored her influence in the realm of sports but also solidified her status as a style icon, inspiring others to embrace their individuality with confidence and grace.