Chicago Sky’s rising star, Angel Reese, has made a significant leap from the basketball court to the glossy pages of Vogue’s Winter 2025 issue, showcasing her unique blend of athletic prowess and high fashion. This landmark cover celebrates Reese’s dual passions for basketball and style, encapsulating her journey as both an athlete and a fashion icon.
Reese, who earned the nickname “Bayou Barbie” for her glamorous looks during her college days at LSU, has long been known for her dynamic presence on the court. Now, she’s making waves in the fashion world with her Vogue feature, where she’s photographed in a striking red dress, embodying the intersection of sports and style.
The Vogue cover story, penned by Maya Singer, delves into Reese’s life, highlighting her seamless fusion of basketball and fashion. Reese reflects on her childhood, revealing how she was always the “fashion girlie,” often playing dress-up with her mother’s clothes and practicing runway walks inspired by “America’s Next Top Model.” This love for fashion has always been parallel to her basketball career, leading her to make bold fashion statements even during games, turning the pre-game tunnel walk into a personal runway.
“It’s always been both: basketball and fashion,” Reese shared in her Vogue interview, emphasizing how her style has been an extension of her identity both on and off the court. Her Vogue appearance is not just about fashion; it’s a narrative of empowerment, showing how athletes, particularly female athletes, are reshaping the fashion landscape with their influence and visibility.
The feature also marks a cultural moment where athletes are increasingly becoming fashion muses. Reese’s cover is part of a broader trend where sports and fashion intertwine, with athletes like her becoming tastemakers. Vogue’s story includes insights from other athletes like Olympic sprinter Gabby Thomas and tennis player Frances Tiafoe, who also grace the issue, discussing how their athletic endeavors fuel their fashion choices and vice versa.
Reese’s Vogue spread has sparked significant buzz on social media, with her announcement on X (formerly Twitter) under the caption “COVERGIRL” receiving thousands of likes and retweets. Fans and fashion enthusiasts alike have praised her for bringing a fresh, fierce style to the magazine, celebrating her not just as an athlete but as a cultural influencer.
Beyond the glamour, Reese’s feature in Vogue is a platform for her to discuss her aspirations, including her dream of walking in Paris Fashion Week. This ambition underscores her commitment to bridging the gap between sports and fashion, advocating for athletes in fashion spaces traditionally dominated by models and celebrities.
Reese’s journey from college basketball stardom to professional leagues and now to the cover of Vogue is a testament to her multifaceted talent. Her Vogue cover not only celebrates her achievements but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes looking to express themselves through fashion. It’s a narrative of breaking stereotypes, showing that one can dominate in sports while also leading with style and grace.
As Reese prepares for her second season with the Chicago Sky, her Vogue cover is a reminder of her influence beyond basketball, encouraging a new generation to embrace their passions, whether on the court or the catwalk, with fierce confidence and style.
