By Naomi Osaka made a striking return to the US Open with a bold and unconventional walk-on outfit that challenges traditional tennis fashion. Designed by Yoon Ahn for Nike, Osaka’s ensemble features a puffy tulle skirt and oversized bows, inspired by the Japanese Lolita goth community. This style, typically associated with anime-inspired, lacey, and frilly clothing, represents a form of subversive armor for Osaka, who has faced challenges on and off the court, including her recent experience with motherhood.
Despite tennis fashion’s usual streamlined aesthetic, Osaka’s choice to embrace girlishness—embodied in bows, frills, and vibrant colors—reclaims youthful femininity as a symbol of strength rather than weakness. The outfit is not just about making a fashion statement but also reflects a deeper connection to the concept of transformation and empowerment, as Osaka aims to bring a sense of magic and fun to her on-court presence.
This look also aligns with a broader trend in fashion, where symbols of girlhood, like ribbons and tulle, are being embraced as powerful and expressive. As Yoon Ahn explains, the collection seeks to enhance women’s personal styles, allowing them to embody their character and own their femininity with pride. In a world where expectations and traditional dress codes are being challenged, Osaka’s outfit at the US Open stands as a testament to the evolving narrative of what it means to be powerful and feminine.
