Simone Biles Turns Heads at the Kentucky Derby with Bold Fashion Statement

Simone Biles is used to making headlines for her athletic feats—but this time, it was her fashion that had people talking. The Olympic champion made a memorable entrance at the 151st Kentucky Derby over the weekend, arriving at Churchill Downs in a showstopping look that sparked plenty of online buzz.

Biles attended the iconic event in Louisville, Kentucky, alongside her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens, now with the Chicago Bears. The couple turned heads in matching lilac outfits that were both coordinated and eye-catching.

Simone wore a strapless lilac mini dress adorned with purple rhinestones, pairing it with silver heels and a bold fascinator that topped her sleek hairstyle. Owens complemented her look with a damask lilac blazer, crisp white pants, white sneakers, and a rhinestone-accented hat.

While the couple’s outfits caught attention, the reactions online were mixed. Social media lit up with comments—some applauding her bold fashion choice, while others criticized the dress for being too short or not formal enough for such a prestigious event.

One critic compared her dress to a “tablecloth,” while another wrote, “Her dress should’ve been longer for such a classy event.” Others called it “inappropriate” or “not sophisticated enough.” One even harshly claimed Biles showed “no class at all.”

But her supporters clapped back, flooding her posts with love. “Classy & stunning 😍,” one fan wrote, while another dubbed her the “best dressed” of the day. Her confidence and individuality struck a chord with many who praised her fearless style.

Biles shared that her husband picked out the purple theme, showing off their fun and united approach to fashion. But her weekend appearance wasn’t just about style—she also took on a meaningful role at the Derby.

As part of Derby tradition, Biles was honored with delivering the ceremonial “Riders up!” call, signaling jockeys to mount their horses. Flanked by local law enforcement and cameras, she confidently addressed the crowd:
“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 declared, before shouting the iconic phrase and blowing a kiss to the camera.

Biles’ presence added a new layer of energy to one of America’s oldest sporting traditions. Known as The Run for the Roses, the Kentucky Derby has blended Southern charm, horse racing, and high fashion since 1875, attracting celebrities, athletes, and fans from all over.

Simone’s participation helped connect the historic legacy of the Derby with a fresh, modern spirit. Just days before, TIME named her one of the 100 most influential people of 2025—an honor she celebrated on Instagram, writing, “TIME 100 ❤️ so blessed and honored to be a part of Time 100’s most influential list.”

From the racetrack to the red carpet to the global stage, Simone Biles continues to make her mark—not just as a gymnast, but as a cultural icon.