Venus Williams embraced the power of a slingback pump for the 2025 CFDA Awards in New York City on Monday, donning a shiny black pair to accompany a crystal-studded dress.

The tennis star opted for a pointed-toe slingback pump with a subtle black-on-black cap-toe design. The silhouette included a statement pointed toe and a traditional slingback strap leading to an ankle strap. A slender heel with a flared shape, meanwhile, elevated the set. The cap-toe aesthetic, popularized by Chanel, added an understated flair to the lustrous, satiny pair.

Williams paired the heels with a black velvet long-sleeve gown —the $678 Cosma Dress from Ronny Kobo, featuring pointed shoulders and a fitted silhouette —adorned with rows of small crystals that added a night-sky-like sparkle to her look. She also sported her recently debuted bangs hairstyle and a rosy makeup look for the occasion. Williams wore an ensemble with a similar classic-glamour aesthetic to the Swarovski Masters of Light celebration on Tuesday, modeling a black suit with silky white accents and silver metallic sandals.

Black slingback pumps have cemented their place as a wardrobe fixture, and celebrities have helped to prove their versatility, whether it’s Williams’ look at the CFDA Awards or Allison Williams wearing a glossy set from Gianvito Rossi to complete a monochrome ensemble.

The 2025 CFDA Fashion Awards honored excellence in American design with an intimate ceremony at the American Museum of Natural History in New York on Monday. Led by CFDA Chairman Thom Browne and CEO Steven Kolb, the event celebrated top talents across womenswear, menswear and accessories. Hosted by Teyana Taylor, the evening brought together leading designers, celebrities, and industry icons to recognize creativity and innovation in contemporary fashion.