Tracee Ellis Ross Makes a Glamorous Return to the Runway After 30 Years

A Triumphant Comeback at Milan Fashion Week

Tracee Ellis Ross, the beloved actress from Black-ish, made a dazzling return to the runway after a hiatus of over three decades. On Wednesday, she strutted down the catwalk for Marni’s fall 2025 show at Milan Fashion Week. Clad in a vibrant yellow gown adorned with a black-and-white lightning bolt design and fur-trimmed cuffs, Ross exuded confidence and elegance. Her outfit, paired with strappy sandals in bold red, mint green, and metallic gold, turned heads and left a lasting impression.

Ross expressed her excitement about the opportunity, describing the gown as "yellow, elegant, fun, and made for me." Her enthusiasm was evident as she shared her experience on social media, captioning a post with "REPPIN FOR THE GROWN WOMEN at MARNI," highlighting her pride in representing women of all ages on the runway. Friends and fans flooded the comments with praise, calling her "fierce," "stunning," and "fabulous."

A Blast from the Past: Reflecting on Her Runway Journey

The night before the Marni show, Ross took a trip down memory lane on Instagram. She shared a video of her runway debut in 1991 for Mugler, alongside her mother, the legendary Diana Ross. "I don’t think I’ve been on a runway since!" she captioned the post, revealing her long hiatus from the catwalk. This nostalgic moment showcased her early beginnings in the fashion world and the significant role her mother played in her career.

In another post from 2020, Ross detailed how her mother, Diana Ross, had secured her first modeling opportunity. Diana received a call to walk in Mugler’s "Butterfly Show" and insisted that her daughter join her. Ross, then just shy of her 18th birthday, was thrilled to seized the chance to model. This heartwarming story highlights the strong bond between the mother-daughter duo and the pivotal moment that kickstarted her career.

A Heartfelt Connection with Marni’s Creative Director

Ross’s return to the runway was not just about the gown; it was also about her deep connection with Marni’s creative director, Francesco Risso. Speaking to Vogue, Ross described Risso as "full of so much love, creativity, and artistry," which resonates deeply with her own values. "His clothes and shows are always a beautiful expression of his work and virtuosity," she added, expressing her admiration for his craft. Her friendship and professional relationship with Risso made the experience even more special, as she felt the gown was crafted with her in mind.

This collaboration was more than just a fashion moment; it was a celebration of artistry, friendship, and mutual respect. Ross’s appreciation for Risso’s vision aligned perfectly with her own sense of style and confidence, making her a stunning ambassador for the brand’s fall 2025 collection.

The Significance of Her Return to the Runway

Tracee Ellis Ross’s return to the runway is more than just a comeback; it’s a statement. At 52, she is challenging age norms in the fashion industry, proving that beauty and elegance have no expiration date. Her presence on the runway was not just about the clothes; it was about confidence, self-assuredness, and redefining standards of beauty. Ross’s walk was more than just a step on the catwalk; it was a declaration of empowerment for women of all ages.

Her choice to wear such a bold, vibrant gown also speaks volumes about her personality—fun, fierce, and unapologetically herself. By stepping back into the spotlight after so many years, Ross inspired countless women to embrace their uniqueness and own their stage, no matter the age or circumstances.

A Lasting Legacy and a Glimpse into the Future

Tracee Ellis Ross’s return to the runway is a testament to her enduring appeal and the timeless nature of her talent. Whether she’s gracing the catwalk, starring in a hit TV show, or sharing heartfelt reflections on social media, Ross continues to captivate audiences with her charm, grace, and authenticity.

The daughter of a legend, Ross has carved out her own path in the entertainment and fashion worlds, blending humor, wit, and elegance in everything she does. As fans hope for another mother-daughter runway moment in the future, one thing is clear: Tracee Ellis Ross is here to stay, slaying runways and stealing hearts with every step.