Tracee Ellis Ross Proves Yet Again Why She’s Fashion’s Ultimate Maverick at WWD Style Awards
In a night that gleamed with Hollywood’s brightest stars, it was Tracee Ellis Ross who commanded attention at the 2025 WWD Style Awards, proving precisely why she deserved the evening’s Fashion Trailblazer Award. The ceremony, held at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, became an impromptu runway for Ross’s impeccable style sensibilities.
As a devoted observer of Ross’s fashion evolution, I couldn’t help but notice how she continues to push boundaries while maintaining that ineffable essence of sophistication. The choice? A masterfully crafted Alaïa Fall 2023 jumpsuit that spoke volumes about her fearless approach to fashion. The piece, a symphony of black fabric punctuated with silver grommet details, hugged her silhouette with the precision we’ve come to expect from the house of Alaïa.
What particularly caught my discerning eye was Ross’s brilliant styling decision to layer the ensemble with an Alaïa leather belt, featuring cascading leather fringe loops – a detail that added both drama and dimension to the look. It’s exactly the kind of unexpected twist that has made Ross a style icon for our generation.
But darlings, let’s talk about those shoes – because in the world of fashion, the devil truly is in the details. Ross stepped out in Saint Laurent’s Chica slingback heels, a choice that deserves its own moment of appreciation. The marriage of patent leather and PVC creates a contemporary narrative, while the 4.5-inch stiletto heel adds that extra touch of elevation (both literally and figuratively). The gathered patent leather detail at the triangular toe is nothing short of architectural brilliance.
As someone who’s witnessed countless red carpet moments, I can attest that this ensemble perfectly encapsulates why Ross was chosen alongside fellow honorees Anna Sawai, Wes Gordon, Kate Young, Chris Appleton, Pati Dubroff, Iván Pol, and Jamie Taylor. The WWD Style Awards’ inaugural Los Angeles ceremony couldn’t have chosen a more deserving recipient for the Fashion Trailblazer Award.
The look was quintessential Tracee – bold without being brash, innovative while remaining elegant, and most importantly, completely true to her personal style ethos. It’s this authentic approach to fashion that continues to make her not just a style icon, but a genuine inspiration in an industry that often prioritizes trends over individuality.
