Aly Raisman, Olympic legend and advocate for athlete empowerment, made a bold statement at Prabal Gurung’s Spring 2025 show—not just with fashion, but with fierce honesty.
From Insecurity to Empowerment
Clad in a dazzling black minidress adorned with crystals, Raisman stood tall beneath the grand limestone arch near City Hall Park in Manhattan. Though she’s long been admired for her gymnastics achievements, Raisman admitted that body image struggles lingered well beyond her Olympic career.
“I used to avoid anything sleeveless because I was teased for being ‘too muscular’ growing up,” she revealed. “But recently I decided—especially after turning 30—that I’m done hiding. I’m wearing what makes me feel powerful.”
Her confidence was undeniable as she flaunted her sculpted arms, a symbolic moment for someone once self-conscious about them. “It’s wild how bullying from childhood can stick with you,” she added. “But I’m letting go of all that.”
Rallying for Justice in Gymnastics
Beyond the fashion, Raisman used the moment to call attention to the controversy surrounding her teammate Jordan Chiles, whose Olympic bronze medal was revoked due to a scoring dispute.
Initially placing fifth in the floor exercise, Chiles was bumped to third following a coach’s inquiry about scoring difficulty. However, the medal was later stripped when the Romanian team contested that the inquiry wasn’t submitted within the required 60-second window.
New evidence from Team USA showed that the challenge was filed in just 47 seconds, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport refused to reconsider. Now, the matter is heading to Switzerland’s highest court.
“I think what’s happening is just wrong,” Raisman said passionately. “Jordan deserves her medal. I’m going to do everything I can to support her.”
She also questioned the inconsistency in officiating. “Someone accepted that inquiry, which means it met the time requirement. Then they admitted a scoring error. Why not fix it?”
Fashion with a Purpose
As models floated down Gurung’s cobblestone runway in flowing skirts and bold silhouettes, Raisman appreciated the artistry while also advocating for fairness. She praised the show’s sleeveless designs as a celebration of strength and femininity.
“The IOC has awarded duplicate medals before—why not now? We need transparency and accountability,” she urged.
Raisman’s voice added depth to a show known for beauty and spectacle. Her presence reminded everyone that strength—emotional, physical, and moral—is always in style.