The Art of Self-Expression in Sports
Fashion is one of the most effective ways to make a statement or share aspects of our identity with others. When it comes to athletes, there are many ways in which they incorporate their heritage, values, and personal identity into what they wear. From shoes and accessories to the colors incorporated in game day attire, customization has changed the way athletes represent themselves. Not only is expressing one's style empowering, but it also reminds us of the diversity and beauty that the world of sports has to offer. Here are some ways athletes have used their style to change the game.
Bringing Japanese Culture to the Court
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Naomi Osaka is known for sporting outfits with deeper meaning during competitions; most importantly, sharing her Japanese heritage through her outfits and accessories. At the Australian Open, Naomi took to the court in a sunflower-themed outfit. In Japan, the sunflower represents vitality, good luck, and longevity. We love a little manifestation! To bring the theme to life, she wore sunflower earrings, hair pieces, and customized shoes.
Most recently, at the French Open, Naomi wore an outfit inspired by the Japanese native flower, sakura (cherry blossoms). They say it’s all in the details, and Naomi knew precisely how to take the look to the next level. She wore a burgundy and light pink Nike set, paying homage to her culture by referencing Sailor Moon, a popular Japanese manga series, through her adorable updo.
Naomi said she plans on continuing the flower theme for each grand slam in 2025, and we can’t wait to see what she brings to the table.
Breaking the Stereotypes
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You may know Jared McCain from his standout year at Duke and TikTok virality. Or you might know him as the basketball player that paints his nails. The current guard for the Philadelphia 76ers knows how to catch people’s attention wherever he goes.
Jared started painting his nails for games, and it became a non-negotiable. Not only did it help him feel like he could perform better, but it allowed him to express himself in a unique way. While there was some backlash, Jared continued painting his nails and even secured brand deals as a result.
“I know a lot of people disagree, a lot of people don’t like it, but I’m just going to be myself and do what I think looks nice”
Representation Matters
Jaedyn Shaw plays soccer for the North Carolina Courage. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jaedyn came up with the idea of creating a custom-made piece to honor her Vietnamese heritage. She worked with her stylist and Thái Nguyễn to transform her personal soccer jersey into an áo dài. An áo dài is a traditional Vietnamese garment and it serves as a symbol of beauty, femininity, and tradition.
“Her jersey is more than just part of her uniform; it is her identity. This collaboration was about fusing tradition with the modern symbols of her life as a young, professional athlete.”
Growing up with a Vietnamese mother and an African American father, Jaedyn said she struggled with her identity. She also had a hard time finding her place in Vietnamese culture but said she is proud of the growth she has made in her journey to immerse herself in all aspects.
“It means the world to me that I can represent all of me, not just based off of what people see on the outside. I am proud to be a Vietnamese American and African American woman. I didn’t grow up having many role models that look like me or have similar backgrounds so it’s a blessing that I can be that person for others.”
Making a Statement on and off the Race Track
(@lewishamilton/Instagram)
Throughout his Formula 1 career, Lewis Hamilton has leveraged his platform to speak out against racial injustice and serve as an advocate for various causes. Additionally, he has become a style trailblazer while being a vocal advocate for diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability within the industry.
He is known for statement-making outfits during the “Black Lives Matter” movement as well as in support of the LGBTQ+ community. To Lewis, clothes are a means by which he expresses himself and his values while breaking the traditional boundaries of identity in fashion.
Lewis’s efforts to champion and shed light on Black designers have made an immense impact on the fashion industry, and he was recently a co-chair of the 2025 Met Gala, which celebrated Black menswear and the legacy of Black dandyism.