Tracee Ellis Ross’s return to the runway after a decades-long hiatus marks a significant moment in the fashion world. The acclaimed actress and producer, known for her leading role in the hit series “Black-ish,” graced the catwalk during the Marni Fall 2025 show at Milan Fashion Week. At 52 years old, Ross brought an electrifying presence that captivated audiences, a testament to her enduring charm and influence in the industry.
Walking the runway draped in a stunning yellow gown adorned with a bold black-and-white lightning bolt motif, Ross exemplified the intersection of artistry and elegance. The gown featured fur-trimmed cuffs that added an aura of sophistication while maintaining a playful edge. Complementing her outfit, she wore strappy sandals in a vibrant palette, consisting of shades like red, mint green, and metallic gold, enhancing the ensemble’s overall impact.
The Power of Friendship and Creativity
Discussing her collaboration with Marni’s creative director, Francesco Risso, Ross expressed deep appreciation for his artistic vision. “Francesco is full of so much love, creativity and artistry — it’s why he and I are friends,” she noted in an interview with Vogue. This statement underscores the importance of personal relationships within the fashion community and how they foster collaborative efforts that inspire new designs. Ross’s enthusiasm for Risso’s work highlights a mutual respect that is evident in the intricacies of the garment she wore: “It’s yellow, elegant, fun, and made for me — so I loved it,” she shared, capturing the essence of her joyful spirit as she took to the runway.
The actress took to Instagram to reflect on this monumental occasion, branding it as “REPPIN FOR THE GROWN WOMEN at MARNI.” This phrase resonated powerfully, signifying not just her personal triumph but also representing a broader celebration of mature women reclaiming their space in fashion. Responses from friends and peers flooded in, commending her for being fierce, stunning, and fabulous, reinforcing her status as a fashion icon.
Nostalgia and Homecoming
Prior to her highly-anticipated comeback, Ross shared a nostalgic glimpse into her past by posting a throwback video from her runway debut in 1991. Accompanied by her mother, the legendary Diana Ross, at the Mugler show, this moment served as both a personal reflection and a reminder of the cyclical nature of fashion. Ross reminisced, “I don’t think I’ve been on a runway since!” showcasing her return as a long-overdue celebration of her roots in the modeling world.
The connection to her mother plays a crucial role in Ross’s journey. In earlier discussions, she revealed that her mother had a hand in facilitating her first experience on the runway. This familial bond and shared passion for performance highlight the lineage of creativity that runs through the Ross family, illustrating how legacy and aspiration can intertwine to pave the way for iconic moments.
Tracee Ellis Ross’s appearance at Milan Fashion Week is not merely a singular event, but a significant chapter in her ongoing narrative as an artist and style icon. Through her glamorous return to the runway, she not only reaffirmed her status but also inspired a new generation of women who aspire to shine in their unique ways. As she continues to break barriers and redefine elegance, Ross remains a formidable force in the fashion realm, proving that age is no hindrance to brilliance on the catwalk.