Off The Record
Simone Biles Turns Heads At Kentucky Derby With Bold Outfit Choice
Once more, Simone Biles made headlines for her style rather than her flips. Everyone was watching her when she got to Churchill Downs, and her attire sparked a discussion that spread well beyond the racecourse.
Simone Biles and her husband, NFL star Jonathan Owens, went to the Kentucky Derby over the weekend. Wearing identical lilac outfits, the couple made an appearance at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Their well-coordinated appearance immediately attracted notice, not all of it good.
For the event, the decorated gymnast donned a soft lilac strapless minidress adorned with purple rhinestones. She accessorised the striking ensemble with a stunning fascinator above her straight haircut and silver heels. Her style was mirrored by Owens, who is currently with the Chicago Bears.
He was dressed in a rhinestone-studded cap, white trousers, matching trainers and a damask lilac jacket. Although their fashion statement attracted attention, there was a sharp division in the online response. As pictures went viral, detractors swiftly rushed to social media to voice their disgust, focussing their criticism on Biles’ outfit.
“Look like she got a tablecloth on [sic],” one user commented bluntly. Another added, “I’m not liking this look on them.” Several others weighed in on the dress length and fit for the occasion. “Inappropriate dress for raceā¦ sounded strange,” a commenter noted, suggesting it clashed with the traditional tone of the event.
“Her dress should’ve been longer for such a prestigious event,” another wrote. One viewer commented, “Too short, otherwise gorgeous,” acknowledging the design but questioning its suitability.
Others took a harsher stance. “I wish she would have dressed more sophisticated,” someone posted. Another added, “Not a classy dress.” One person even stated that Biles had “No class at all.”
Biles’ admirers praised her widely in spite of the outpouring of criticism. Numerous admirers praised her confident and daring approach on social media.”CLASSY & STUNNING,” one heartfelt comment said. One commenter referred to her as the “best dressed.”
On the red carpet, the pair revealed behind-the-scenes information about their synchronised ensemble. “Jonathan actually chose the purple,” Biles said in response to a question concerning their colour preferences. Despite online disagreement, it is evident that their matching outfits were the result of a partnership and a common sense of style.
During the Derby celebrations, Biles had a ceremonial role in addition to the fashion buzz. She was asked to give the famous “Riders up” call, which is a time rich in excitement and history, as part of the custom. Biles later took on her part in front of the audience and cameras.
She was flanked by local law enforcement, wearing a lavender minidress and matching fascinator. She spoke to the audience while confidently facing the camera. “Ladies and Gentlemen, the city of Louisville, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and sports fans from around the world have been waiting for this moment,” she said.
In a passionate finale, she yelled, “Riders up!” to get the jockeys to get on their horses, and then she kissed the camera. For the seven-time Olympic medallist, it was a time of celebration and acknowledgement. Biles demonstrated why she is still a major player on and off the pitch despite the fashion controversy.
More than just a fashion story, Simone Biles’ Kentucky Derby visit signified her participation in one of the country’s most illustrious customs. Since 1875, the Derby, also known as The Run for the Roses, has enthralled spectators by fusing pomp, Southern charm and cultural status with top horse racing.
The event, which takes place every year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is more than just a race. The celebration of history and high society lasts for a week. Celebrities, athletes, and fans from all over the world are lured to the world of high-fashion competitions, lavish charity galas, and private parties.
The involvement of Biles invigorated the atmosphere. She entered a ritual that celebrates legacy and spectacle with confidence, from her daring red carpet appearance to her ceremonial “Riders up” call. Her appearance acted as a link between a new generation’s voice and the Derby’s legacy.
Biles’ performance at the Derby coincided with a period of notable personal accomplishment. She was listed as one of TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2025 just a few days prior. The honour emphasised her ongoing influence on gymnastics, sports, culture, and campaigning.
Biles celebrated the moment with her followers on Instagram. Sharing a photo from the shoot, she wrote, “TIME 100 ā¤ļø so blessed and honored to be apart of time 100’s most influential list.”
The honour opened a new chapter in a career characterised by distinction, tenacity, and worldwide impact. She lived history at Churchill Downs, not just witnessing it.
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