Wherever Venus Williams goes, several accolades follow. From turning professional at the ripe age of 14, to winning five Wimbledon singles titles, recently becoming the second oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level, and lest we forget, earning degrees in fashion, business, and design—throughout her career, the powerhouse continues to redefine what it means to be a female athlete.
For this year's Women In Sport issue, Marie Claire UK welcomed Williams to front its cover. Photographing her in familiar Wimbledon grounds, the athlete, author, and entrepreneur spoke to Afua Hirsch about her advocacy efforts, journey with being diagnosed with uterine fibroids, her wellbeing book, Strive, and her foray into fashion.
Indeed, over the past couple of weeks, Williams admitted to keeping up with both Men's Fashion Week and Wimbledon simultaneously. "Design and wellness – this is kind of where I belong,” she tells Hirsch. "I love fashion, I really do. Watching Pharrell [Williams’ designs for Louis Vuitton]. It’s fun, it’s fascinating, it’s inspiring. I love it.”
On the cover, Williams' ever-evolving love for fashion is evident. She's showcasing some of next season's most covetable pieces, with pieces from Lacoste, Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, and Thom Browne and fine jewellery and watches from Vanguart and Bulgari, selected by stylist Anna Hughes-Chamberlain.
Below, you'll find a carefully curated edit of William's cover-ready pieces and similar styles, perfect for those looking to recreate her looks or gather inspiration for the upcoming autumn/winter season.
Shop the look
Available in three different colourways, Lacoste's slim fit polo wrap dress serves as a nearly identical alternative to William's maxi sweater dress from the brand.
A chunky choker necklace is a timeless accessory that instantly polishes any look.
Although Lacoste's tinsel two-piece is not yet available for purchase, this Dries Van Noten top is an excellent option if you're searching for a stylish and striking going-out top.
This snake-effect chiffon dress shirt serves as a versatile capsule wardrobe piece to style over trousers and heels or on its own with flats.
For a new season feel, invest in these over-the-knee Stella McCartney boots for the autumn/winter season.
Embracing Chloé's boho aesthetic, these oversized aviators are bold yet refined.
A faux-fur coat is seethingly becoming a cold-weather staple; style your own similarly to Williams by pairing it with kitten heels and a corset belt.
As seen at Alaïa, Louis Vuitton, Zimmermann, and Balenciaga, to name a few, the corset belt is the accessory to watch for during autumn/winter.
Coming as a masterclass in colour blocking, Williams wore a full Gucci ensemble consisting of a butter-yellow mini dress styled with purple tights and black slingback heels.
Vanguart watches seamlessly combine bold design with sophistication, making them an exemplary choice for a luxury timepiece.
