If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.
Simone Biles attended Kate Spade New York’s Third Annual Global Summit on women’s mental health held yesterday in New York. The Olympian channeled her wilder side, sporting the brand’s Maritza leopard-printed pumps.
The athlete’s footwear choice, priced at $258 at Nordstrom, featured animal-printed uppers in tan and black, accompanied by striking pointed toes and 2 to 3-inch stiletto heels. The silhouette was high-impact, offering the gymnast’s look a playful touch that contrasted the more subdued hues throughout her look.
Kate Spade features an array of leopard-printed footwear styles to choose from, and Biles chose the leopard print version that also features an adjustable slingback strap with buckle closure. The four-foot-eight gymnast has been open about it being difficult to find shoes her size, since her feet are smaller than average, wearing a size 5 in shoes — which isn’t always available. The Kate Spade Maritza pump is available from sizes 5 to 11.
Watch on FN
Christian Louboutin, Saint Laurent, Gianvito Rossi, DKNY, Dolce & Gabbana and Nine West all feature similar styles to Biles’ own in a range of prices and sizes. Whether zebra and cheetah, leopard or snakeskin, animal-printed footwear has taken off within the past few years, rising in popularity likely thanks to the resurgence of the Y2K movement where animal print reigned supreme.
Biles kept things casual on the outfit front, opting for a black Fall Garden Midi Dress in black. The garment was made of a textural ruched black fabric and included a plunging neckline and a drop waist. The hemline was flared out, offering dimension. Biles also toted a Fall/Holiday 2024 Grace Convertible Shoulder Bag in black, rather simple black leather shoulder bag with gold hardware, also from Kate Spade. She wore a Double Knot Pendant necklace and Double Knot Huggies from the brand.
The event featured panels, presentations, and networking opportunities, including a fireside chat with Simone Biles and CEO of Tapestry Joanne Crevoiserat.The brand also premiered their latest short film starring Taraji P. Henson, Nicola Coughlan, and Marsai Martin, who were recently announced as stars of the Kate Spade New York Fall 2024 brand campaign. The film also launched the brand’s Global Fund for Women’s Mental Health, a topic Biles has been outspoken about during her career.
The star athlete has been seen in numerous pairs of sneakers by Nike during her last partnership with the athletic brand, and was recently spotted wearing APL’s TechLoom Bliss.
For formal occasions, she can be seen in strappy sandals, sky-high platforms, and peep-toe pumps by Christian Louboutin, Saint Laurent, Schutz and Badgley Mischka. Biles also holds a long-term partnership with Athleta, where she debuted her own line of performance wear. She is also a partner for the brand’s active and athleisure apparel.
