Brooks Nader made a show-stopping entrance at the 2025 ESPY Awards, proving that sometimes taking a fashion risk pays off in the most glamorous way possible.
The Sports Illustrated model commanded attention on Wednesday night’s red carpet at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, delivering one of the evening’s most memorable fashion moments. The 28-year-old model and “Dancing With the Stars” alum chose a daring yet elegant approach for the star-studded sports awards ceremony.
Her ensemble choice represented a perfect blend of classic Hollywood glamour and contemporary edge. Nader selected a white silk slip dress by Saint Laurent, sourced by stylist Janet Mandell. The gown featured a dramatically deep plunging neckline with delicate spaghetti straps that created a striking halter-style silhouette.
The bias-cut construction of the gown allowed the luxurious fabric to drape naturally against her figure. It created a sleek column silhouette that extended gracefully to floor length. This styling choice perfectly embodied the current trend of ’90s-inspired slip dresses. This movement has dominated recent red carpet appearances, emphasizing clean lines and sophisticated minimalism.
Nader’s beauty look complemented the gown’s understated elegance. She styled her signature blonde hair in loose, cascading waves that fell effortlessly over one shoulder. Her makeup artist created a bronzed, sculpted appearance with nude-toned lips. She also had expertly defined eyes that enhanced her natural features without competing with the dress’s dramatic neckline.
Strategic Brand Partnership with a Humorous Twist
The model cleverly used her ESPY Awards appearance to highlight her partnership with feminine hygiene brand U by Kotex. She posted on Instagram before the event, writing: “The last time I wore all white, I had a mishap and it made headlines🩸. This time, I’m not taking any chances and brought backup.”
Nader continued her message by thanking the brand, explaining: “Thanks for the assist, U by Kotex.” This reference connected back to her recent experience at Wimbledon. She had openly shared about experiencing an unexpected period while wearing a white skirt during her attendance at the tennis tournament.
Earlier in July, Nader had posted a candid TikTok video from London, writing, “Tries to be chic.” She spun to show her polka-dotted top and an unfortunately stained white skirt, adding, “Starts 🩸 at Wimbledon.” Her honest approach to the situation earned widespread praise from followers who appreciated her authenticity and relatability.
She received a positive response to her Wimbledon post, with comments flooding in with support, and users writing messages like “You’re so real for this” and “Happens to us all.”
Rising Reality TV Star with Family Focus
Beyond her modeling career and red carpet appearances, Nader is preparing to share more of her personal life through an upcoming reality television venture. She and her three sisters—Sarah Jane, Grace Ann, and Mary Holland Nader—are launching a new reality series titled “Love Thy Nader.” The show premieres on August 26.
It promises an intimate look at the sisters’ lives as they navigate their twenties in New York City. In a joint statement to People, the siblings shared their excitement about the project. “Born and raised in Louisiana, the four of us always dreamed of moving to New York to chase big-city dreams. It felt a world away. And yet — here we are. Four sisters, all in our 20s, living together in NYC. Working, dating, laughing, learning, and building a life we never could’ve imagined… side by side!”
They added: “We’re so excited (and a little nervous!) to invite you into our world. Buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride!” The series features Jimmy Kimmel as an executive producer.
The show’s official synopsis sets high expectations for drama and relatability: “Set against the backdrop of Soho lofts, fashion campaigns and skyscraper dreams, Love Thy Nader explores the ultimate question of what it really means to ‘make it.’ In a city where one can burn bright or go up in flames, sometimes the only thing truly needed is a sister who has your back.”
Nader’s recent public appearances have garnered considerable media attention, including her attendance at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s wedding in Venice in June, where she reportedly encountered her rumored ex, Tom Brady. Her European summer continued with appearances at Paris Fashion Week. She made headlines there for wearing a completely sheer black halter top while attending exclusive dinner parties.
The 2025 ESPY Awards, hosted by comedian Shane Gillis, and where Nader served as a presenter, celebrated the year’s most memorable sports achievements and moments. The ceremony aired live on ABC at 8 p.m. EST and streamed on ESPN+, bringing together elite athletes, celebrities, and sports fans for the annual celebration presented by ESPN.
