Serena's Power Moves: Milan Fashion, Nike Debate, and Backing Bold Ideas

Serena Williams BioSnap a weekly updated Biography. Serena Williams has been at the epicenter of both style and social entrepreneurship this week, making headlines at Milan Fashion Week where she upstaged even the runway with a custom black Gucci gown for the brand’s Spring 2026 debut. According to BET, Serena’s look embodied old Hollywood glamour—a semi-sheer feather-trimmed drama piece woven with Gucci’s iconic monogram—making her the unofficial star of Demna Gvasalia's surprise show and short film, ‘The Tiger.’ Serena’s presence was hailed as pure “it girl energy,” shifting the spotlight from sport to couture, confirming her as an enduring force in global fashion. Hot off the Milan limelight, Serena jumped back into business and activism in New York, where she attended Kim Kardashian’s NikeSKIMS launch. Times of India notes that the campaign, which featured 50 female athletes including Serena, sparked fierce debate online after tennis influencer Kaya described the ad’s message and camera work as “objectifying.” Serena herself posted glamorous launch party photos with Kim and Khloé on Instagram, writing, “Back with my girls for one epic night! Over 20 years of friendship and we still laugh like no one else is in the room.” Serena further applauded the NikeSKIMS team, calling the partnership “a moment.” A fresh controversy brewed after Serena posted a video to her Instagram story expressing visible discomfort at cotton stalks displayed in her New York hotel, as reported by Marca. She paused at a vase with raw cotton, commenting, “How do we feel about cotton as decoration? Personally, for me, it doesn’t feel great.” Reactions varied, with some accusing Serena of being overly sensitive, while others commended her for highlighting the historical weight of cotton displays referencing America’s legacy of slavery. Lavocedinewyork describes this incident as another example of her ongoing social consciousness, meeting criticism head-on while keeping discourse alive. From fashion runways to social commentary, Serena’s business activities surged ahead. AOL Finance and Reckitt’s press releases confirm Serena just became the first-ever entrepreneur-in-residence for Reckitt, the British health giant behind Lysol and Durex. She’s mentoring and helping scale underfunded startups—especially those focused on hygiene and maternal care—through Reckitt Catalyst, a £10 million initiative aiming to reach five million underserved people globally by 2030. Serena said, “When we back bold ideas and founders with genuine support—funding, mentorship, and belief—we unlock powerful solutions for the communities that need them most.” Also making waves, Serena Ventures is supporting an open pitch contest this month, giving one founder the chance to win $15,000 and a day with Serena’s team in New York. Her venture portfolio now includes over 14 unicorn startups, many led by women and people of color—a track record few athletes can match. On the personal front, Serena rema This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.