Simone Biles made waves at the 2025 Kentucky Derby — not for her gymnastics, but for her bold fashion. Attending the event with her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, the couple showed up in matching lilac outfits that sparked both admiration and criticism. Biles wore a strapless,
rhinestone-studded mini dress paired with a dramatic fascinator, while Owens sported a damask lilac jacket and rhinestone hat. Though many fans praised their coordinated style, some online critics slammed Biles’ dress as too short and “not classy enough” for the prestigious event. Despite the backlash,
Biles remained confident, later delivering the ceremonial “Riders up!” call — a historic moment traditionally reserved for notable guests. Her appearance blended star power with tradition, reinforcing her influence beyond athletics. Just days before,
Biles was named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2025, celebrating her continued impact on sports and culture. At Churchill Downs, she didn’t just attend an event — she helped define it.
