Let’s be clear: when we talk about Black excellence, we’re talking about a multifaceted operation. It’s not just about being the best in one lane; it’s about owning the entire highway. And sitting comfortably in the driver’s seat of her own destiny is Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields. We all know the resume: two Olympic golds, undisputed in multiple weight classes, the baddest to ever do it in that ring. But a key part of the excellence playbook is the strategic pivot, the expansion of the brand. So, when the VMAs came calling, Shields didn’t just show up—she executed a full-scale takeover, and she brought a squad of Black artistic geniuses with her.
FashionBombDaily got the exclusive insider access to the operation, pulling back the curtain on the meticulous preparation that goes into transforming an athletic powerhouse into a red-carpet visionary. This wasn’t just a “get ready with me”; this was a masterclass in collaborative Black genius.
The architect behind this strategic style assault was none other than celebrity stylist @theplugsdaughter. The assignment was precise: craft a look for a champion’s body—a physique built on power and discipline—that screams high fashion, not athletic wear. The mission was accomplished with a show-stopping, sky blue feathered and sequined gown by Valdrin Sahiti. This wasn’t just a dress; it was a statement piece, blending ethereal beauty with undeniable presence.
But the genius was in the details—the curation that separates a good look from a great one. She paired the gown with a sculptural feather-accented purse from Cult Gaia, a choice that showed a next-level understanding of texture and theme. The jewelry, elegant and refined, was provided by Sonrisa Jewels, adding just the right amount of sparkle to complement the dress’s sequins without overwhelming it. And on her feet, the sleek strapped sandals by Jessica Rich offered a modern, sexy edge that grounded the entire heavenly ensemble.
But the foundation of any great look is the canvas and the framing. Enter the elite glam team. On the hair, the incredible @teaondemand_ was applying that architectural precision, building a style that was both flawless and functional, complementing the vibe without competing with it. And on the face, the artist @aluxxe__ was doing that melanin magic. This ain’t just about makeup; it’s about enhancement, about highlighting the natural beauty of Black features under those harsh lights. It’s a skill, a science, and an art form that our community has mastered.
This move by Shields is a calculated power play in the legacy game. She’s been building towards this, consistently using her platform to demonstrate that the same discipline required to become a world champion can be applied to conquering the fashion world. It’s about owning your narrative and understanding that your identity isn’t monolithic. You can be the most feared competitor in the sport and also be a muse for high fashion. That duality is a core tenet of our modern expression.
By partnering with FashionBombDaily and showcasing this squad of Black women—a stylist, a hairstylist, and a MUA—at the top of their respective games, Shields did more than just prep for an award show. She showcased Black commerce. She highlighted Black collaboration. She put the world on notice that the same way she builds a team for a fight camp, she builds a team for a red carpet. And that team is comprised of the best in the game.
Claressa Shields is redefining what it means to be a champion. The belts are secured; now it’s time to secure the bag and influence the culture on a whole other level. And with the visionary assistance of @theplugsdaughter, @teaondemand_, and @aluxxe__, that’s exactly what she’s doing. The G.W.O.A.T. isn’t just winning rounds; she’s winning seasons.
