Simone Biles has made headlines again—this time, not for her gravity-defying gymnastics, but for her fashion statement. When she arrived at the Kentucky Derby, all eyes were on the Olympic champion, and her outfit sparked a fierce conversation that reached far beyond the racetrack.
Over the weekend, Biles attended the legendary event at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, alongside her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens. The couple turned heads with their coordinated lilac outfits, but their fashion choices sparked mixed reactions online.
For the occasion, Simone Biles donned a strapless mini dress in a soft lilac hue, adorned with shimmering purple rhinestones. She paired the eye-catching dress with silver heels and a dramatic fascinator perched atop her sleek hairstyle, adding a touch of glamour. Jonathan Owens, who now plays for the Chicago Bears, joined her in a matching ensemble—a damask lilac jacket, white pants, rhinestone-studded sneakers, and a matching hat.
While the couple’s coordinated look quickly caught the spotlight, the response online was divided. As photos of their Derby outfits went viral, critics flooded social media with disapproval. Some were quick to voice their opinions, with one commenter writing, “Looks like she got a tablecloth on.” Another added, “I’m not liking this look on them.” Other reactions focused on the dress length and fit, with one person commenting, “Inappropriate dress for race… sounded strange,” suggesting that it clashed with the traditional dress code of the event.
Despite the backlash, Simone and Jonathan’s bold fashion choices have undeniably sparked conversation, making their appearance at the 2025 Kentucky Derby one to remember.
Simone Biles’ daring choice of dress for the Kentucky Derby sparked both admiration and controversy, with some fans praising her bold style, while others were quick to criticize it.
One viewer suggested that Biles’ dress should have been longer for such a prestigious occasion, writing, “Her dress should’ve been longer for such a prestigious event.” Another comment echoed a similar sentiment: “Too short, otherwise gorgeous,” acknowledging the design but questioning its appropriateness.
More critical voices expressed their disappointment more harshly. One person wrote, “I wish she would have dressed more sophisticated,” while another said, “Not a classy dress.” A particularly scathing comment even accused Biles of having “No class at all.”
Despite the backlash, Simone was also showered with praise from many of her fans. Supporters took to social media to celebrate her bold choice, with one fan gushing, “CLASSY & STUNNING😍,” and another declaring her the “best dressed” of the day.
During a red carpet interview, the couple opened up about their coordinated looks. Simone shared that Jonathan had chosen the lilac color for their outfits, adding a personal touch to their fashion statement. Despite the mixed reactions online, it’s clear that their matching ensembles were a reflection of their shared style and partnership, making them stand out on one of the biggest days in horse racing.
Simone Biles made a powerful impact at the Kentucky Derby, not only through her fashion but also with her significant ceremonial role. As part of the tradition, Biles was invited to deliver the iconic “Riders up” call—a thrilling moment that marks the start of the race. Standing confidently in her lavender mini dress and matching fascinator, flanked by local law enforcement, Biles addressed the excited crowd and said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the city of Louisville, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and sports fans from around the world have been waiting for this moment.”
With the crowd buzzing in anticipation, she finished with a spirited “Riders up!” signaling the jockeys to mount their horses, followed by a playful kiss to the camera. It was a moment of pure celebration, underscoring Biles’ status as a celebrated figure in the world of sports and beyond.
While her fashion choices at the Derby ignited debate, Biles’ presence at this iconic event was about much more than just the dress. The Kentucky Derby, a time-honored tradition that has captivated audiences since 1875, is not just a race—it’s a grand celebration of history, high society, and Southern charm. Held annually at Churchill Downs, the Derby is a week-long extravaganza filled with charity galas, high-fashion contests, and exclusive parties that draw in athletes, celebrities, and fans from around the world.
By stepping into this world, Biles brought a fresh, modern energy. From her stunning red carpet look to her ceremonial call, she made her mark on a tradition that blends heritage with high-octane spectacle. Her participation reflected her ability to connect the Derby’s storied past with the voice of a new generation.
This moment came just days after being named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025, a recognition that celebrated Biles’ ongoing impact on gymnastics, culture, and advocacy. She shared her excitement on Instagram, posting a photo from the TIME shoot and writing, “TIME 100 ❤️ so blessed and honored to be a part of TIME 100’s most influential list.”
In both her fashion and her role at the Derby, Simone Biles not only stood out but also solidified her place as a trailblazer, leaving an undeniable mark on both the event and the cultural landscape.
The recognition marked another chapter in a career defined by excellence, resilience, and global influence. At Churchill Downs, Simone Biles didn’t just witness history — she embodied it. Her presence at the Derby was a testament to her enduring legacy, a powerful reminder of the lasting impact she’s had both in and out of the gym. As she took on a ceremonial role and captivated audiences with her bold style, Biles showed once again that she’s not just a spectator in history, but a key figure in shaping it.