Court to Couture: Serena Williams’ Strategic Cutouts and Red Soles Command the Time100 Red Carpet
In a masterclass of monochromatic dressing, Serena Williams made a commanding appearance at Thursday’s 2025 Time100 Gala in New York City, effortlessly demonstrating why she remains a force both on and off the court.
The legendary athlete arrived at Lincoln Center in a breathtaking Stella McCartney creation that epitomized modern sophistication with its architectural approach to eveningwear. The off-shoulder silhouette clung impeccably to Williams’ enviable physique, while strategically placed horizontal cutouts cascaded down the front of the garment, creating a mesmerizing visual rhythm that defied conventional gala attire.
Williams’ styling choices elevated the ensemble to rarefied heights of glamour. Sheer opera gloves—that quintessential accessory experiencing a renaissance among fashion’s elite—extended the drama of her look while nodding to old Hollywood sensibilities. The tennis champion’s jewelry selections were equally deliberate: a substantial diamond statement necklace commanded attention at her décolletage, complemented by matching diamond earrings that caught the light with every turn of her head. A silver diamond timepiece completed her carefully curated accessories narrative.
Beauty-wise, Williams embraced a stunning duality of nostalgic and contemporary elements. Her blonde locks were swept into a sleek, polished ponytail that showcased her facial features while providing the perfect canvas for her makeup story. The ’90s-inspired beauty look featured a bold red lip juxtaposed with an unexpected touch of purple eyeshadow—a chromatic risk that paid dividends in distinction and memorability.
As any seasoned style observer knows, footwear selection can make or break an evening ensemble, and Williams’ choice was nothing short of impeccable. Her Christian Louboutin Condora Strap pumps in noir perfectly anchored the monochromatic moment. The slingback silhouette—distinguished by its inward slanting flared heel and razor-sharp pointed toe—offered architectural interest to complement the structural elements of her McCartney dress. Crafted from sumptuous leather and featuring the brand’s signature crimson sole, the Condora represents luxury footwear at its most covetable, with a heel height estimated between 4 and 5 inches providing Williams with an even more commanding presence.
The Condora style, currently priced at $995, has been embraced by other luminaries of note, including Keke Palmer, who has been spotted in the glossy vermillion iteration, and Monica Barbaro, who opted for the pink variation. Williams’ decision to select the classic noir option demonstrates her understanding that sometimes restrained elegance speaks volumes.
Perhaps most compelling about Williams’ ensemble was how it balanced athleticism with refinement. The body-conscious silhouette celebrated her powerful physique while the cutout details introduced an element of architectural sophistication that transcended typical red carpet offerings. The juxtaposition of strength and delicacy—embodied in both the dress construction and Williams herself—created a visual narrative perfectly suited to an event celebrating influence and impact.
As Time honors its selection of the world’s most influential individuals, Williams’ sartorial statement at the gala served as a reminder that her cultural footprint extends well beyond her athletic achievements. In fashion, as in tennis, Williams continues to set the standard for excellence, innovation, and unapologetic individuality—a Time100 honoree whose style influence remains as powerful as her legendary backhand.
