Simone Biles debuted a custom Athleta gown designed by Zac Posen, who serves as Gap Inc.’s executive vice president and creative director, at the 2025 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles.
Arriving at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles next to her husband, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, Biles wore a gown built around Biles’s favorite Athleta piece, the Transcend Open Back Tee. Using the same four-way stretch performance fabric, Posen created a full-length form-fitting navy blue dress with a square neckline, open back and beaded accents.
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“Wearing a custom Zac Posen look made with my favorite Athleta fabric feels like the perfect blend of who I am — strong, bold, and always in motion. The inspiration for the gown, The Transcend Open Back Tee, is the perfect mix of effortless and elevated—it’s breathable, super soft, and the open back detail adds a fun, confident edge,” Biles said via statement.
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Posen said the design process was intentional and specific, adding that “it took on even greater meaning – her presence is magnetic, and the design allows her strength, elegance, and confidence to come through effortlessly.”
The high-stretch material of the dress was chosen for both its comfort and its ability to highlight Biles’s physique. She accessorized the look with pieces by EFFY Jewelry.
Athleta became Biles’ exclusive apparel partner in 2021. The company teamed up with Biles to debut her own line of activewear, as well as a clothing line for Athleta’s teen sub brand, Athleta Girl.
“Using my voice has been very empowering for me and I’m grateful to embark on this new journey with Athleta to inspire young girls and women to do the same,” Biles said in a statement. “The opportunity to encourage young girls to reach their full potential and be a force for change is incredibly powerful. I admire Athleta for their commitment to recognize and support women’s individual and collective strength and, together, I believe we can help girls to confidently and passionately take on the world in their athletic endeavors and beyond.”
Biles, who was styled by Jessica Paster, was named Best Athlete: Women’s Sports and Best Championship Performance at this year’s ceremony for her all-around title at the Paris Olympics.
“The recognition means more than you guys know,” Biles said during her acceptance speech. “I would like to thank the people who have stood with me on this journey — my teammates, my competitors, my coaches, family and fans who have lifted me up every step of the way. I wouldn’t be standing here without all of you.”
“Having a strong support system that understands your dreams, who are willing to show up for you, not just when you’re winning, but when you’re struggling, too, is really important,” Biles said. “My sincere gratitude, appreciation and love to all of you who have stood with me on this magical journey, all the highs, lows, twists and turns along the way.”
The 2025 ESPY Awards, hosted by comedian Shane Gillis, air live on Wednesday from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and stream on ESPN+. The annual event, presented by ESPN, brings together elite athletes, celebrities and sports fans to celebrate the most memorable achievements, moments and stories from the past year in sports.