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The 2025 Super Bowl proved that high-profile sports events are more than just games; they are cultural milestones. This year, athletes made fashion statements as they arrived in outfits from renowned designers, highlighting the growing intersection between sports and fashion. Travis Kelce turned heads in a rust-colored suit from Amiri’s Fall 2025 collection, Saquon Barkley sported a denim Canadian tuxedo, and Jalen Hurts donned a dark purple suit. For the first time, the NFL introduced a red carpet and hired fashion editor Kyle Smith, showcasing the evolving significance of the event. These games are transforming into celebrations of culture, style, and self-expression, not just football itself.

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To further explore this phenomenon, Clara Zaiman, a Syracuse University fashion design minor, shared her thoughts on the intersection of fashion and high-profile sports. Zaiman explained that she enjoys watching the games “not just for the sport, but also for the fashion.” She believes the outfits of the significant others of athletes offer insight into “personal aesthetic” and “self-expression.” Zaiman also noted how it is intriguing to see the contrast between the more extravagant ensembles and those who opt for more casual looks.

While the players used the opportunity to showcase their individual styles, they also adhered to professional dress codes, mindful of their public image. One standout moment was DeVonta Smith’s choice of a red suit with a gold belt. This bold look, which featured The Chiefs’s colors, drew attention and confusion from fans who wondered about Smith's team allegiance. In contrast, other players, like Chamarri Conner in brown pants and a corduroy jacket, or Jawaan Taylor in a black-and-white tailored suit with diamond accessories, took a more nuanced approach. Regardless of the specific choices, each player dressed professionally for the occasion. This tradition extends beyond the NFL, reflecting a broader expectation across major sports leagues such as the NHL and NBA.

The Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show also highlighted how influential figures express themselves through fashion. The headline performer, Kendrick Lamar, wore bootcut jeans paired with a varsity jacket that read “Gloria,” a reference to his GNX album, with a necklace featuring an “A,” another connection to his record. Similarly, his guest, SZA, sported a red leather jacket with “Crybaby” emblazoned on the back, promoting her new album, SOS Deluxe: Lana. These fashion choices were an extension of their musical identity, showcasing how celebrities utilize clothing to communicate messages.

The fashion choices of the wives and girlfriends (WAGs) of professional athletes also became a focal point on social media. As they cheered from the sidelines, some WAGs embraced bold, eye-catching outfits, while others went for more understated looks. Amina Smith, wife of Deon Bush, arrived in a striking red skirt set from Aknvas paired with tall black fur boots. Alix Earle, typically more casual at Dolphins games, wore a full black leather outfit, complete with a tight jacket and skirt with black stompers. These fashion choices emphasized how the Super Bowl is, for some, more than just a game—it’s a major cultural event. On the other hand, Taylor Swift and Ice Spice kept it more subtle, opting for neutral tones. Taylor Swift supported the Chiefs in a white Alaïa top and cream blazer, while Ice Spice wore a cream bomber jacket. These outfits contrasted with Brittany Mahomes’ extravagant choice of a white corset, a 73k diamond necklace, and custom Chiefs cargo pants, which made a powerful statement of luxury and style.

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The diversity in fashion—from daring looks to more casual attire—reflects how people engage with high-profile sports games. Some attendees view it as an opportunity to push the boundaries of fashion, while others may not prioritize style as much. Chanen Johnson, a content creator and wife of Juwan Johnson (New Orleans Saints), emphasized the importance of dressing up for game days. She said, “I like to be overdressed rather than underdressed,” explaining her excitement for the event’s energy, fashion, and celebrations. However, she also stressed that, at the end of the day, it’s about supporting the team and appreciating the dedication it takes to reach this point in the season.

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Ultimately, the 2025 Super Bowl underscored the growing integration of fashion into high-profile sports events. From athletes to WAGs, the Super Bowl showcased how fashion has become an essential part of the spectacle, making it clear that the event is more than just a game. As this evolution continues, I’m excited to see how future games further blur the lines between sports and fashion.