Tracee Ellis Ross: July 2025 SELF Cover, A Study in Bold Authenticity

Let’s talk about that red, shall we? A vision in vibrant crimson, Ross is seen in what can only be described as a sculptural, almost architectural, red ensemble. A cropped top, cinched and bowed at the back, paired with a matching, dramatically ruffled mini-skirt that creates an exaggerated, playful silhouette. And the tights! Monochromatic, seamless, extending the powerful line down to equally bold red pumps. It’s a daring, whimsical choice that very few could pull off without looking like a caricature, but Ross—ah, Ross makes it look like second nature. It’s the kind of audacious confidence that echoes the vibrant street style of Milan during fashion week; a look that says, “I am here, and I am fabulous.” The cut, the volume, the sheer redness of it all—it’s a celebration, a sartorial shout of unadulterated pleasure.

Then, a surprising shift. Ross dons a light, almost ethereal, pale blue crocheted dress. This isn’t your grandmother’s crochet, mind you. This is intricate, open-work craftsmanship, forming organic, petal-like cutouts that reveal just enough skin, creating a delicate interplay of shadow and light. It’s a mermaid’s dream, perhaps, or a whisper of a summer breeze. The tactile quality of the crochet, so often associated with bohemian sensibilities, is elevated here to something truly high fashion. It’s a reminder that true artistry lies not just in avant-garde designs, but also in the meticulous, almost meditative, work of traditional techniques. One can almost feel the texture through the image, can’t you?

And for the cover, a serene moment in sunshine yellow. Ross, perched with a radiant smile, wears a simple, yet utterly chic, lemon-hued slip dress. The fabric, soft and flowing, drapes effortlessly, a picture of relaxed elegance. But it’s the styling—the knee-high, ribbed socks in a matching pale yellow, paired with chic, square-toed mules—that adds an unexpected, almost quirky touch. It’s a playful subversion of expectations, taking a classic silhouette and infusing it with a dash of youthful irreverence. It’s the kind of detail that makes you pause, smile, and then copy. Very French girl chic, but with that quintessential American boldness. The cover declares “Tracee Ellis Ross Takes Care of Herself,” and looking at these images, it’s clear that self-care for Ross extends to a joyful, uninhibited embrace of fashion.