WNBA All-Star Weekend: Fashion Takes Centre Stage Ahead of Chicago Showdown
From A'ja Wilson’s custom Rahul Mishra ensemble to Rhyne Howard’s lupus awareness suit, the 2026 All-Star festivities in Chicago highlighted style as a key component of the league’s cultural footprint.
The 2026 WNBA All-Star orange carpet event took place on Thursday, July 23, at the United Center in Chicago, serving as a high-profile prelude to the All-Star Game scheduled for Saturday, July 25. The weekend festivities, which feature Team Coop led by Cynthia Cooper and Team Spoon led by Teresa Weatherspoon, have increasingly positioned fashion as a central element of the league’s public engagement. Players and personalities utilised the arrivals to showcase designer ensembles, with black, white, and neutral tones dominating the runway.
Four-time MVP A'ja Wilson set a high standard for the evening, posting her look on social media ahead of the arrivals. Styled by iCON Billingsley, Wilson wore a black ensemble by Rahul Mishra and Rabanne, featuring a sparkly bodice that transitioned into a beaded skirt. The outfit was completed with sheer gloves, classic pumps, and tiny shades, reinforcing her status as a recognised style icon within the league.
Rhyne Howard drew attention for integrating advocacy into her attire. Wearing a custom DALYA suit envisioned by stylist Silke Weil, Howard’s look featured black pinstripes, houndstooth details, and rich purple elements representing lupus awareness. The structured design included sky-high shoulders and hand-beaded basketball nets, paired with black and white Louboutin loafers, creating a statement that balanced political messaging with high fashion.
Rookies Azzi Fudd and Olivia Miles also made significant impressions on their first appearances at the event. Fudd opted for a plaid blazer and distressed patchwork jeans, coordinating the look with a black leather bralette and a black Coach handbag. Miles, wearing an oversized black suit for her debut, accessorised with a slender silver brooch and a single-stranded silver pant chain, marking a polished entry into the All-Star spotlight.
Other notable attendees included Caitlin Bueckers, who wore a sleeveless white top and textured trousers by Jason Bolden of JSN Studio, accented with a Louis Vuitton necktie. Jordan Mitchell added colour with a reflective track jacket and pants set, while Olympic medalist Jordan Chiles and multi-media journalist Arielle Chambers were also present at the arrivals, underscoring the event’s broad appeal beyond the court.
