Indiana Fever star Lexie Hull has set social media ablaze with her unapologetic stance on personal styling, boldly declaring, “You have to pay,” as she refuses to hire a professional stylist. While many athletes rely on image consultants to curate their off-court looks, Hull has made it clear she’s not interested in outsourcing her fashion decisions, despite the increasing scrutiny placed on WNBA players’ style. Her stance has drawn both praise and criticism, with fans divided over whether athletes should invest in professional image management or embrace their individuality.
Hull, a Stanford alum and former first-round draft pick, has been steadily raising her fashion game on her own terms. Known for her fierce competitiveness on the court, she’s now making waves for her evolving off-court aesthetic. Some supporters argue that her decision is empowering, proving that athletes don’t need to rely on expensive stylists to make bold fashion statements. However, critics claim that her stance undermines the growing movement of WNBA players securing brand deals and redefining sports fashion through carefully curated looks.
The debate intensified when Hull doubled down on her stance, stating that personal style should remain just that—personal. In an era where many athletes collaborate with high-profile designers and stylists, her comments have sparked conversations about the financial priorities of WNBA players, many of whom earn significantly less than their NBA counterparts. While NBA stars often flaunt high-end designer outfits with the help of stylists, WNBA players must navigate a different economic landscape, making Hull’s refusal to pay for a stylist all the more controversial.
Fashion experts have weighed in on the debate, with some noting that Hull’s approach reflects a larger shift toward authenticity in sports fashion. “Not every player wants to be a fashion icon,” said one industry insider. “Hull is showing that confidence and style don’t always have to come with a designer label.” Meanwhile, others believe her stance could hinder potential endorsement opportunities, as brands often look for athletes who embrace a polished, marketable image.
Regardless of the backlash, Hull remains firm in her decision, letting her wardrobe—and her game—speak for itself. Whether she’s sparking a new trend of self-styled athletes or missing out on lucrative fashion deals, one thing is certain: Lexie Hull isn’t backing down. With the WNBA gaining more visibility, her stance could challenge the industry’s expectations of female athletes and their relationship with fashion, for better or worse.
