WNBA Fashion Has Never Been Better. Here’s Why.

The year 2024 has been a significant one for women’s basketball, both on the court and in the realm of fashion. From the recent WNBA All-Star game, to the WNBA draft, to the players’ game day tunnel outfits, there is a newfound excitement surrounding the personal style of the athletes.

Historically, popular players have risen to celebrity status not only for their performance on the court but also for their fashion choices, driving cultural trends forward. The increased attention on WNBA players’ fashion reflects the league’s current status and its future potential.

While the WNBA is a younger league compared to the NBA, it is catching up in terms of viewership. The intersection of professional basketball and fashion has always been significant, and the attention on what WNBA players wear and how their style is discussed has implications for the league’s growth moving forward.

The Evolution of WNBA Fashion

Since its inception in 1996, the WNBA has been at the forefront of fashion. Players like Sheryl Swoopes, Cynthia Cooper, Lisa Leslie, and Dawn Staley were admired not only for their athletic talents but also for their sense of style. The WNBA’s style has always been cool, hip, and reflective of contemporary cultural trends.

During the ’90s and 2000s, urban streetwear heavily influenced the WNBA fashion scene, with players embracing hip-hop culture through jersey-style matching sets, Air Jordans, and hoop earrings. This trend evolved to include a blend of comfort and streetwear, marking the rise of athleisure styles.

In the 2010s, high fashion became more intertwined with the WNBA fashion landscape. Players like Swin Cash, Brittney Griner, and Skylar Diggins emerged as style influencers, pushing WNBA fashion to new heights. Cash and Diggins graced magazine covers and walked runways during New York Fashion Week, solidifying their status as fashion icons.

Looking back at each WNBA draft class, a clear progression in fashion choices is evident. With the proliferation of social media, players in recent years have embraced daring designer outfits on the orange carpet, departing from previous strict dress codes.

Fast forward to the present day, with rising stars like Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and Kamilla Cardoso bringing fresh attention to WNBA fashion. These players showcase their talent both on and off the court, emphasizing that WNBA fashion is a force to be reckoned with.

At events like the WNBA draft, fashion takes center stage as players are styled by top designers. For instance, Caitlin Clark’s Prada ensemble and Angel Reese’s Vogue-editor-styled gown highlight the league’s growing influence in the fashion world.

Moreover, the tunnel, once a simple passage to the arena, has transformed into a runway show for players to flaunt their personal style. These moments are captured and shared on social media, further amplifying the impact of WNBA fashion.

This emphasis on fashion underscores the readiness of women’s sports and athletes to shine not just in their respective sports but also in the fashion industry.

The NIL Connection

The rise of WNBA fashion mirrors the league’s growing energy and popularity. Alongside this, the NCAA’s decision to allow name, image, and likeness deals has offered players increased visibility, including in fashion, beyond their athletic achievements.

The NCAA’s NIL rule enables college athletes, particularly women basketball players, to capitalize on their image, resulting in lucrative opportunities. Players like Paige Bueckers have secured sponsorships with major brands, paving the way for a seamless transition from college to the WNBA.

These marketing deals can lead to endorsement opportunities in the professional realm, a crucial avenue for women athletes who often earn lower salaries than their male counterparts. While there may be pressure to align with specific brands, the ability to secure partnerships signifies a step towards equity in sports marketing.

The shift in brand partnerships extends beyond the WNBA, signaling a broader trend of investing in women’s sports. The ability for WNBA players to collaborate with prominent brands showcases the industry’s recognition of female athletes’ impact both on and off the court.

Apart from business considerations, WNBA fashion serves as a platform for players to express their individuality and support social causes. By working with Black female designers and using fashion to advocate for movements like Gender Equity in Sports and Black Lives Matter, players are making a statement both on and off the court.

Research suggests that consumers are more inclined to support products endorsed by female athletes, highlighting the influential role these players hold in shaping trends and consumer behavior.

As WNBA players continue to elevate their fashion sense, they are also championing female athletes, designers, and social causes. This collective effort contributes to the league’s growth and widening access within the industry.

The future of WNBA fashion is a compelling narrative to watch as the league gains prominence. These exceptional female athletes are not only making waves on the court but also leaving a lasting impact in the world of fashion.

Ralinda Watts, an esteemed author and expert in diversity, race, and culture, contributes her insights at the intersection of identity and justice. Her work has been featured in prominent publications, encompassing a range of topics that resonate with a broad audience.