A’ja Wilson Towers Over Jordan Chiles in All-White Jean Paul Gaultier Look and Maiernisi Jessi Sandals at 2025 Time Women of the Year Gala
WNBA star A’ja Wilson and gymnast Jordan Chiles embraced monochromatic dressing and their nearly foot-and-a-half height difference at the 2025 Time Women of the Year Gala in Los Angeles yesterday.
The Las Vegas Aces star center paired a white high-neck, short-sleeve gown from Jean Paul Gaultier with white heeled sandals by Maiernisi Jessi. The simple footwear featured a round toe, a single strap across the toes and an ankle strap, with a slim, black 5-inch heel. The shoe is currently available for $34 on Amazon. The size-inclusive brand also offers shoes up to a Size 16 in women’s.
The gold-medal-winning gymnast opted for a Selena-inspired red dress, complete with a curly high ponytail. Her shoes were not visible.
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Stiletto sandals are a bona fide red carpet and dressy classic, thanks to their versatility and understated elegance. Stiletto sandals are also a staple during warmer months, with many featuring a simple strap across the toes along with a slim ankle strap, creating a barely-there construction. The heel of a stiletto sandal is often 4 inches or above, adding some height for a flattering silhouette.
Wilson is as known for her agility on the court as for her high-fashion looks. When scoring basket after basket on the court, she opts for Nikes, often in bold colorways, such as the joyful primary-colored LeBron 21 Polka Dot PE she wore to play the Chicago Sky in July. Off the court, she regularly pairs her stylish ‘fits with strappy stilettos or fresh sneakers.
The gala took place at the West Hollywood EDITION hotel to celebrate Time Magazine‘s list of global women fighting for justice and equality. Nicole Kidman, Olivia Munn, Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot and Women in Liberation & Leadership CEO and Founder Fatou Baldeh were also honored and gave inspiring speeches at the event.
“One thing about me, I am not shy about speaking up for ourselves and for the next generation,” Wilson said with a laugh. “We have to do all we can to celebrate, elevate, and demand equity for women’s sports, and the voices and stories of athletes all around the world.”
The WNBA regular season begins on May 16 and runs until Sept. 11, after which playoffs begin. Women’s sports have been historically undercelebrated and underfunded in the U.S., but the WNBA received a welcome amount of buzz last season, with a record-number of viewership and attendance. Wilson, who was named the WNBA MVP for the third time, alongside 2024 star rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, helped bring the sport forward in the public eye.
