Dawn Staley’s March Madness Style: A Court-Side Fashion Show
Dawn Staley, the celebrated head coach of the South Carolina women’s basketball team, is as well-known for her dynamic leadership and strategic prowess on the court as she is for her impeccable streetwear style. As the Gamecocks prepared for their first-round Women’s March Madness game against Tennessee Tech, the burning question wasn’t just about game strategy, but also about what statement Staley would make with her outfit.
The anticipation surrounding Staley’s game-day attire is palpable. It’s become an integral part of the South Carolina basketball experience, a visual representation of Staley’s personality and her connection with her players. Even Staley’s players show interest in her wardrobe selection for the games. Before the match against Tennessee Tech, Staley revealed that she hadn’t yet finalized her look. Immediately, her players, particularly guard Bree Hall, jumped in to offer their sartorial expertise.
"Send me a pic of the fit, let me see," Hall playfully requested, eager to provide input on her coach’s ensemble. Senior Sania Feagin chimed in with her own offer to assist. Staley, however, gently reminded them of her self-styling prowess.
“I styled you like two weeks ago. You forgot,” Hall retorted, showcasing the close-knit relationship and playful banter within the team.
"Short memory," Staley responded with a smile, highlighting the camaraderie and lightheartedness that exists alongside the team’s intense competitive drive.
As Staley embarks on her 18th NCAA Tournament, marking her 13th consecutive appearance with South Carolina, her fashion journey has been one of evolution and self-expression. Over the years, she’s graced the sidelines in designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, and Gucci, proving her keen eye for luxury and high-fashion trends. But her style isn’t solely defined by designer labels. Staley is equally passionate about supporting brands that align with her values, as evident in her frequent wear of Togethxr merchandise. Togethxr, founded by former WNBA star Sue Bird, alongside Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, and Simone Manuel, promotes "Everyone Watches Women’s Sports" through its apparel, a sentiment Staley wholeheartedly embraces.
Staley emphasizes that comfort is paramount when selecting her game-day outfits. Having shed the constraints of high heels, she now prioritizes stylish yet comfortable pieces that allow her to move freely and effectively coach her team.
Her foray into the world of high fashion extended beyond simply wearing designer clothes. Last year, Staley attended the prestigious Milan Fashion Week Gucci show, an experience she described as transformative. Surrounded by fellow star athletes like Venus and Serena Williams and Stefon Diggs, Staley gained a new appreciation for the artistry and energy inherent in fashion.
“Last summer was probably the first time that I was a part of fashion shows. I would see them on social media, like, OK, that’s cool. But when you’re there and you see the energy and you feel the energy, I mean, I enjoyed it," Staley said. This immersion into the fashion world has undoubtedly influenced her personal style, adding another layer of sophistication and confidence to her already distinctive look.
The players’ fascination with Staley’s fashion choices goes beyond mere admiration; they genuinely want to be involved in the styling process. Freshman guard Maddy McDaniel expressed her desire to raid Staley’s closet, demonstrating the players’ playful and familial bond with their coach.
“She’s got her own thing going on,” McDaniel said. “She should let me (help pick out her outfits), so I can get in her closet and take a few things.” This comment reflects the team’s overall appreciation for Staley’s individual style and the desire to share in her fashion-forward journey.
Dawn Staley’s approach to fashion is more than just aesthetics; it’s about self-expression, comfort, and supporting brands she believes in. It’s about using her platform to advocate for women’s sports and inspire her players to embrace their own unique identities. As she continues to lead the South Carolina Gamecocks through March Madness, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on her coaching prowess, but also on the stylish statement she makes with each game-day outfit, proving that fashion and basketball can seamlessly coexist. Her style is a reflection of her winning mentality – bold, confident, and unapologetically herself. Whether she chooses a classic designer ensemble or a statement piece from Togethxr, Dawn Staley’s fashion choices are always a winning play. And with a team that’s as invested in her style as they are in her coaching, it’s clear that fashion is just another way Staley connects with and inspires her players, creating a winning atmosphere both on and off the court. Staley’s consistent presence in designer wear while simultaneously championing brands dedicated to women’s sports highlights her ability to straddle high fashion and social consciousness, making her a true style icon in the world of sports.
