The Met Gala is truly one of my favorite nights of the year.

Athletes, celebrities, and socialites play the most epic game of dress-up and attend the prestigious annual event benefiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s costume institute in Manhattan.

This year’s theme was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” - and may I be so bold to say that it was spectacular. There are usually some unique interpretations of the theme that leave me either really confused or underwhelmed, and don’t even get me started on the epidemic of men who show up in a boring black suit. (Sorry Joe Burrow, but you’re included in this too.)

This time around, the overwhelming majority of the looks were absolutely serving, but Venus Williams' look was a more literal interpretation of the term.

My first reaction was: this is giving when you have a tennis match at five and the red carpet at six. 

It’s playful, it aligns with her story, the sparkles catch the light beautifully, and it’s an elevated take on a traditional sporty aesthetic with excellent tailoring. 

Williams wore a custom Lacoste look that featured an emerald polo with sparkle details, paired with a matching pleated high-low tennis skirt that gave the illusion of a mini skirt from the front, but extended out to a dramatic train in the back. 

The familiar silhouette was topped with a cape with an embellished collar and styled with truly some of the most unique shoes I’ve ever seen. They’re a cross between a loafer, kitten heel, and sculpture straight from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

“We brought together the tennis codes that are central to Venus’ life and career, and to Lacoste’s heritages, and reconstructed them through the lens of traditional tailoring,” said Lacoste’s Creative Director, Pelagia Kolotouros, to Women’s Wear Daily. “Her custom couture look centers on the sports robe, re-imagined with the precision and structure of tailoring, bonded with a weather proof-membrane, embellishment, and drama that brings further texture and movement.”

Is this too predictable? On the red carpet featuring Demi Moore wearing a literal tie, Jenna Ortega wearing metal rulers, and André 3000 who arrived with a genuine baby grand piano on his back, there’s an element of Venus’ look that feels “safe” in comparison. 

Especially compared to Serena Williams' look. 

Serena sported a silky Moncler look with a signature puffer that made an impact on the red carpet. While it looks a little bit like a duvet, at least it’s bold. 

Venus’ look feels a bit quieter in comparison, but maybe that’s okay? I think quiet luxury is one of the most high-class and subtly impactful styles.

This isn't the first time we’ve seen a tennis influence on a red carpet.

When Zendaya was promoting hit tennis movie Challengers in 2024, she wore a variety of tennis-inspired looks that elevated traditional court fashion.

Venus’ look falls right in line with this aesthetic. And you can't convince me that Genie Bouchard wouldn’t absolutely eat this up if she wore it on a night out. 

However, I can’t help but point out that the stars in attendance have to endure dinner wearing these crazy outfits, so kudos to Venus for wearing an outfit she can sit in. 

With the night’s dress code being “Tailored for You,” I think Venus nailed it.

It's a luxe tenniscore fit and I think that’s my new favorite aesthetic.

She absolutely served. Period.

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