Once more, Simone Biles made headlines for her style rather than her flips. Everyone was watching her when she got to Churchill Downs, and her attire sparked a discussion that spread well beyond the racetrack.
Simone Biles and her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, went to the Kentucky Derby over the weekend. Wearing matching lilac outfits, the couple made an appearance at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Their well-coordinated appearance immediately attracted notice, not all of it good.
For the event, the decorated gymnast wore a soft lilac strapless minidress adorned with purple rhinestones. She accessorized the striking ensemble with a dramatic fascinator above her sleek hairstyle and silver heels. Her style was mirrored by Owens, who is currently with the Chicago Bears.
He was dressed in a rhinestone-studded hat, white pants, matching sneakers, and a damask lilac jacket. Although their fashion statement attracted attention, there was a sharp divide in the online response. Critics swiftly expressed their disapproval on social media as the pictures went viral, focusing their criticism on Biles’ dress.
One user said bluntly, “Look like she got a tablecloth on [sic].” “I don’t like this look on them,” said another. Others offered their opinions on the dress’s length and appropriateness for the event. One commenter said, “Inappropriate dress for race… sounded strange,” implying that it went against the event’s traditional tone.
Another commented, “For such a prestigious event, her dress should have been longer.” One viewer acknowledged the design but questioned its appropriateness, saying, “Too short, otherwise gorgeous.”
Some adopted a more severe approach. Someone wrote, “I wish she would have dressed more elegantly.” “Not a classy dress,” another person added. Biles even had “no class at all,” according to one person.
Biles’ supporters praised her widely in spite of the outpouring of criticism. Numerous admirers praised her confident and daring style on social media. There was one enthusiastic comment that read, “CLASSY & STUNNING😍.” She was dubbed the “best dressed” by another user.
The pair revealed behind-the-scenes information about their coordinated ensemble on the red carpet. When questioned about their color preference, Biles disclosed, “Jonathan actually chose the purple.” Despite online debate, it is evident that their matching outfits were the result of a partnership and a common sense of style.
During the Derby celebrations, Biles assumed a ceremonial role in addition to the fashion buzz. She was asked to give the famous “Riders up” call, which is a moment rich in excitement and history, as part of the custom. Biles later took on her role in front of the audience and cameras.
@nbcolympics A beautiful Riders Up from Simone Biles. #kentucky #horses #simonebiles ♬ original sound – NBC Olympics & Paralympics
She was flanked by local law enforcement, wearing a lavender minidress and matching fascinator. She spoke to the audience while confidently facing the camera. She said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the city of Louisville, and sports fans from all over the world have been waiting for this moment.”
In a passionate finale, she yelled, “Riders up!” to get the jockeys to get on their horses, and then she kissed the camera. For the seven-time Olympic medalist, it was a time of celebration and acknowledgment. Biles demonstrated why she is still a major player on and off the field despite the fashion controversy.
More than just a fashion story, Simone Biles’ Kentucky Derby appearance signified her participation in one of the country’s most illustrious customs. Since 1875, the Derby, also known as The Run for the Roses, has enthralled spectators by fusing pageantry, Southern charm, and cultural prestige with top horse racing.
The event, which takes place every year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is more than just a race. The celebration of history and high society lasts for a week. Celebrities, athletes, and fans from all over the world are drawn to the world of high-fashion competitions, lavish charity galas, and exclusive parties.
Biles’ involvement gave the scene new vitality. She entered a tradition that celebrates heritage and spectacle with confidence, from her daring red carpet appearance to her ceremonial “Riders up” call. Her presence acted as a link between a new generation’s voice and the Derby’s legacy.
Biles’ appearance at the Derby coincided with a period of notable personal accomplishment. She was listed as one of TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2025 just a few days prior. Her ongoing influence on gymnastics, sports, culture, and advocacy was emphasized by the honor.
On Instagram, Biles shared the moment with her fans. “TIME 100 ❤️ so blessed and honored to be part of time 100’s most influential list,” she wrote, sharing a photo from the photo shoot.
The honor opened a new chapter in a career characterized by distinction, tenacity, and worldwide impact. She lived history at Churchill Downs, not just witnessing it.