The Monochrome Power Play
One of the most impactful looks on any red carpet is a head-to-toe monochromatic outfit. We often see athletes rock a single, bold color, creating a look that is both striking and incredibly chic. Think of a sharp suit in an unexpected hue or a gown that commits
to one vibrant color story. The key is to create a seamless column of color that elongates your frame and radiates confidence. To get this look, scan your wardrobe not for an outfit, but for a color. Do you have a pair of black trousers and a black silk camisole? Pair them. A red blazer and matching red pants from different suits? Combine them for a new power ensemble. The trick is to stick to the same color family. Play with different textures—like pairing a satin top with wool pants—to add depth and interest without breaking the color block.
Deconstructed and Daring Suiting
The traditional suit is a staple, but on the ESPYs carpet, it’s often broken down and reimagined. Athletes frequently play with tailored separates, proving that a blazer or a pair of dress trousers can be the foundation for a show-stopping look. We’ve seen blazers worn as dresses, suit jackets paired with shorts, and trousers matched with everything from crop tops to glamorous blouses. You can easily replicate this. Take your favorite blazer and wear it over a simple slip dress. Or, pair those often-neglected suit pants with a statement top you love. Don’t be afraid to mix and match; a pinstripe blazer can look incredibly modern over a simple black dress, and tailored shorts can be elevated with heels and a dressy blouse. It’s about taking formal pieces out of their expected context.
Athletic Elegance
Nowhere is the line between sportswear and formalwear more beautifully blurred than at the ESPYs. Some of the most memorable looks involve a high-low mix, pairing glamorous pieces with distinctly athletic elements. A formal gown with a pair of clean, high-end sneakers or a bomber jacket thrown over a sequined dress are perfect examples. This is one of the easiest styles to emulate. Start with your most formal dress or skirt. Now, instead of reaching for heels, grab your freshest pair of white leather sneakers. The contrast is what makes it cool. You could also try pairing a feminine, flowing skirt with a simple, well-fitting athletic-style top or a sporty jacket. It’s a nod to the athletic world that feels authentic, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.
Sparkle and Shine
If there's one thing the ESPYs red carpet is never short on, it's sparkle. Sequins, metallics, and high-shine fabrics are a constant, reflecting the flashbulbs and the star power of the attendees. From fully sequined gowns to metallic bodices, a little bit of shimmer goes a long way. Your closet likely has some hidden gems. It could be a sequined top you bought for New Year's Eve, a metallic skirt, or even a dress with subtle beading. The key to making it modern is to balance the shine. Pair that sparkly top with simple, tailored black pants. Let a sequined skirt be the star of the show by pairing it with a basic white t-shirt or a simple cashmere sweater. This grounds the look and makes the sparkle feel intentional and chic rather than over-the-top.
Accessorize Like a Champion
Often, the difference between a good outfit and a great one comes down to the details. On the red carpet, accessories are chosen with intention to complete the look. A statement watch, a bold necklace, or the perfect belt can transform an entire ensemble. This is where you can truly get creative without buying a single new piece of clothing. Revisit that simple black dress in your closet, but this time, add a wide, architectural belt to cinch the waist. Layer several of your delicate gold necklaces to create a bolder, more substantial look. Don't underestimate the power of your shoes and bag to set the tone. A pair of colorful heels or a unique clutch can provide the perfect finishing touch to an otherwise simple outfit, giving it that customized, red-carpet-ready feel.
