After more than three decades away from the spotlight of high fashion, Tracee Ellis Ross made a triumphant return to the runway during Milan Fashion Week. At 52, the renowned actress, known for her role in “Black-ish,” captivated the audience as she graced the Marni Fall 2025 show. Ross wore a breathtaking yellow gown that paired bold style with nostalgic elegance, embodying the essence of creativity and flair that Marni is known for.
The gown’s striking yellow hue, complemented by its unique black-and-white lightning bolt design and fur-trimmed cuffs, accentuated Ross’s vibrant personality. This playful yet sophisticated piece was expertly styled with eye-catching strappy sandals in a striking palette of red, mint green, and metallic gold. Ross’s choice of attire not only reflects her sophisticated taste but also showcases the innovative vision of Marni’s creative director, Francesco Risso.
The Spirit of Collaboration
In her collaboration with Marni, Ross expressed her admiration for Risso, remarking on his artistic brilliance and the warmth he brings to the fashion world. “Francesco is full of so much love, creativity and artistry,” she told Vogue, highlighting the deep connection that exists between the actress and the designer. This bond resulted in a collection that is not just a display of fashion but an exhibition of artistry, where each piece tells a distinct story—one that resonates with both Ross and the audience watching.
“It’s yellow, elegant, fun, and made for me,” Ross said, articulating the personal significance of the garment she wore on that momentous occasion. Her evocative description painted a picture of confidence and joy as she strutted down the runway, embodying the self-assured essence of modern femininity.
Reflecting on her fashion journey, Ross shared her sentiments on Instagram, celebrating the milestone and connecting with her roots in the industry. A poignant video from her runway debut in 1991 illustrates Ross’s evolution, capturing a moment in which she walked for the iconic Mugler brand in the presence of her mother, legendary singer Diana Ross. “I don’t think I’ve been on a runway since!” she nostalgically recalled, looking back on a significant chapter of her life.
In her posts, Ross invited her fans and followers to join her on this reflective journey, emphasizing the bond shared between mother and daughter in the world of modeling. The powerful influence of Diana Ross not only shaped her daughter’s aspirations but also solidified a legacy within the fashion sphere. When her mother was presented with an opportunity to walk for Mugler, she instinctively knew that Tracee would seize the chance. “I desperately wanted to be a model,” she recalled, vividly bringing to life the excitement of that early career moment.
Tracee Ellis Ross’s return to the runway is a testament to her enduring presence in the fashion world and a shoutout to the empowerment of “grown women” everywhere. Notably, her friends and fellow celebrities responded with overwhelming support, describing her as “fierce” and “stunning,” a reflection of her impact on both the industry and her audience. As she stepped back into the world of high fashion, she not only rekindled her own aspirations but also inspired many to embrace their journey, regardless of age.
Ross’s enchanting reappearance at Milan Fashion Week serves as both a celebration of her personal history in fashion and a declaration that style knows no bounds. With grace and confidence, she continues to redefine what it means to be a woman in the spotlight today.