Gabby Thomas had an extraordinary season in 2024, marked by her remarkable achievement of winning three Olympic gold medals. This feat instantly propelled her into the spotlight within the track and field community, not only for her accolades but also for the determination she displayed by continuing to compete even after the Olympics, ultimately concluding her season at the Athlos meet. However, 2025 is shaping up to bring new challenges for the sprinter as she explores other avenues alongside her athletic career.
A New Journey: From Track to Fashion
Gabby Thomas is no stranger to embarking on new ventures in her career. While excelling in track and field is her primary focus, Thomas has recently begun delving into the world of fashion. This journey is not without its challenges, as she looks up to the iconic legacy of Florence Griffith-Joyner (FloJo), whose influence on both the sport and fashion remains unparalleled. Though it may seem daunting to follow in FloJo’s footsteps, Thomas’s determination suggests she is ready to carve her own path in this domain.
Meanwhile, her teammate Sha’Carri Richardson has already started making waves in the fashion world, creating her own legacy with unique and bold statements. Both athletes appear to be shaping a friendly rivalry off the track as they attempt to blend style and sport in their own ways.
Finding Her Style
Speaking to Vogue, Gabby Thomas reflected on her growing interest in fashion and how it complements her athletic identity. She shared, “I’ve been so in athlete-world, I feel like I’m just starting to get a sense of what I like. Not that I don’t have my own style. I do, but then I put on something like that white Carolina Herrera dress that I wore to the show, and it’s like, ‘Oh, oh-kaay.’ Since then, I’ve been doing more ‘pretty’ looks. And more polished. Same with the hair and makeup, I’m growing with that too.”
For Thomas, fashion is an extension of her confidence and individuality. She emphasized the importance of creativity and self-expression, stating, “I think one of the most empowering parts of being a female athlete is that we do have this creative opportunity to showcase ourselves in our own way, whether that’s makeup, hair, nails, or how we wear our uniforms.” Drawing inspiration from FloJo’s groundbreaking approach, Thomas aspires to incorporate her own touch into the fashion side of the sport.
FloJo’s Enduring Legacy
Florence Griffith-Joyner not only dominated the track with her unmatched speed but also captivated audiences with her flamboyant and meaningful outfits. FloJo’s fashion statements were not merely aesthetic; they carried deeper messages that resonated with fans and empowered female athletes. Athletes today, including Thomas and Richardson, continue to admire and draw inspiration from FloJo’s ability to blend style and athleticism seamlessly.
Sha’Carri Richardson’s Fashion Influence
Sha’Carri Richardson has also embraced the role of a trendsetter in track and field. Known for her striking hairstyles, vibrant makeup, and colorful nails, Richardson has consistently turned heads both on and off the track. Her unique fashion sense has sparked comparisons to FloJo, although Richardson insists on being recognized for her individuality.
Richardson credits much of her confidence and style to her grandmother, Betty Harp, whom she lovingly calls “Big Momma.” In an interview, Richardson explained, “When you look your best, you feel your best. And just like with everything else, if I’m going to do it, I’m going to give 100 percent. That’s something my Big Momma taught me.” This familial influence has motivated Richardson to consistently present herself with confidence and flair, blending performance and style into a winning formula.
A Friendly Rivalry in Fashion
While both Thomas and Richardson are teammates on Team USA, their shared interest in fashion has sparked discussions about who might best carry on FloJo’s legacy. Fans have debated whether Thomas’s emerging sense of style or Richardson’s established reputation will leave a more lasting impression on the track and field fashion world.
Regardless of the outcome, both athletes are contributing to a growing trend in the sport, where fashion is recognized as an integral part of an athlete’s public image and personal empowerment. For Gabby Thomas, the journey into fashion is just beginning, but her determination and creativity suggest that she will continue to make strides both on and off the track.