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This Met Gala is filled with pro athletes. Dressing them is a unique challenge

ABC News's profile
ABC News
15h ago

Brittney Griner made history as the first WNBA player to attend the Met Gala in 2023, wearing a custom Calvin Klein suit styled by Courtney Mays, who specializes in dressing athletes with unique proportions. The stylist faced challenges working within the constraints set by Vogue editor Anna Wintour, opting for Calvin Klein to symbolize Griner's American roots and emotional journey home. The Met Gala, emphasizing the representation of athletes and Black designers, featured sports figures like Lewis Hamilton and LeBron James in prominent roles. Griner's participation, along with Mays' advocacy for diversity, highlights the evolving intersection of sports and fashion. Mays, known for her work with NBA and WNBA stars, continues to push for inclusivity and representation in the luxury fashion space, bringing attention to diverse styles through events like the Met Gala and basketball's tunnel fits trend.

This Met Gala is filled with pro athletes. Dressing them is a unique challenge

Brittney Griner attended the 2023 Met Gala as the first WNBA player, wearing a custom-designed Calvin Klein suit tailored by celebrity stylist Courtney Mays, who is experienced in dressing athletes with unique proportions.

Courtney Mays faced the challenge of adhering to guidelines set by Vogue's Anna Wintour while selecting Calvin Klein to celebrate Griner's American roots and her emotional return from a Russian prison, symbolizing a fresh start with a champagne-colored suit for Griner and a white dress for her wife.

The Met Gala featured significant representation from the sports world, with Lewis Hamilton and LeBron James taking prominent roles, highlighting the growing relationship between fashion and athletes.

Courtney Mays has long advocated for increased athlete representation, especially Black athletes, in luxury fashion, aiming to demonstrate diversity and inclusion through events like the Met Gala.

Mays' styling expertise in the sports world extends beyond the Met Gala, as she has significantly influenced tunnel fits, a trend where athletes dress stylishly for pre-game arrivals, showcasing a wide range of styles and personalities.

Mays' work with WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart and Tina Charles emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and personal expression through fashion, with her clients appreciating her ability to tailor outfits that reflect their identity.

The Met Gala's theme, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,' aligns with Mays' mission to promote diversity and feature underrepresented designers and individuals, aiming to open more doors for athletes in the fashion industry.

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