Serena Williams is set to make history next month at the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York. She will become the first athlete to receive the Fashion Icon award. In previous years, the award has gone to names like Lenny Kravitz, Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, and Naomi Campbell.
Serena Williams’ Newest History Making Feat
“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve used fashion as an outlet to express myself — fashion gave me the confidence to step on the court and own who I was, and where I knew I was going,” Williams said, in a statement. . “My dream of owning my own brand, S by Serena, has become a reality and throughout my career, I have been blessed to collaborate with the most established designers and the most exciting up-and-coming creatives. I have had so much fun learning my style and allowing it to change as my life has evolved, but I’ve always held one thing true—fashion is for everyone, no matter your size, race or income. I am incredibly honored to be receiving the prestigious Fashion Icon Award from the CFDA, an organization whose work I have long admired and to stand among style icons I have always looked up to.”
Not only is Williams a record-breaking tennis champion, she also owns her clothing brand, S by Serena, and owns a jewelry line.
Thom Browne, chairman of the CFDA told WWD, “Serena is one of the most inspiring people in the world…a true individual…she is an icon of the sports world…representing greatness on the highest level…bringing fashion to another world…for another audience…always staying true to herself, both on and off the court…a perfect combination of our worlds…the ultimate example of individuality in everything she does.…Serena is a true fashion icon.”
The 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards will be hosted by Sarah Jessica Parker, at the American Museum of Natural History on November 6.