Pro sports are fun for so many reasons— they give us something to be excited about, a way to find community, and of course, an excuse to throw parties (hello, Super Bowl). But one under-appreciated aspect of professional sports is the fun and funky fashion that the players show off before games and on the red carpet. I’ve always loved checking out my favorite players’ pre-game fits, and over the years some fashion moments in sports have even made it into the larger pop culture conversation (think Serena Williams’s banned catsuit from the French Open). So, to celebrate the style of some iconic professional athletes, here’s a list of five fashion moments that I will never be over.
- James Harden’s Big Tone Tribute
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The SCARF, y’all! James Harden has become known for his off-court style, and this is one of my favorite pre-game looks. The scarf, jacket, and turtleneck work so well together, and the Big Tone tribute pennant around his neck is centered in the ensemble while still fitting in with the overall look.
- Tamera Young’s Red Blazer
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The way that Tamera Young pulls off this outfit? Legendary. I’m absolutely in love with the shirt/pants set, and the bold pop of color from her blazer elevates the look. Add that to the matching sneakers (and the super cool Chanel sunglasses), and this outfit really comes together and puts my entire wardrobe to shame.
- David Pastrnak’s Patterned Suit
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Like Harden, David Pastrnak is undeniably a fashion icon in his league (the NHL) and is definitely the best-dressed player on the Boston Bruins. This patterned suit has lived rent-free in my mind since he wore it, and it goes to show that bold choices (especially when most players opt for pretty basic pre-game suits) can definitely pay off.
- Odell Beckham Jr.’s Kilt Moment
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For the most wonderful time of the year in 2019 (the Met Gala, of course) OBJ really popped off. His style is well-praised in the sports world, and for good reason. Honestly, it was hard to narrow it down to one of his many incredible fits. But if TikTok has taught me anything, it’s that men in skirts are winning life.
- Serena Williams’s Met Gala Gown
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There was no way I was making it through this article without including Serena Williams. Her style, on and off the court, has been making waves for years, not to mention that she’s one of the greatest athletes of all time. While I loved the costume she wore for an appearance in Beyoncé’s Formation tour, her 2019 Met Gala gown could not be passed up, especially because she pulled off sneakers with the look.
It’s so fun to watch athletes establish their own personal styles and set the tone for fashion across their leagues and the sports world. I can’t wait to see all of their great looks to come.
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