Simone Biles Shocks Fans with $23,000 Red Carpet Glam Bills

Published: April 30, 2026 Last Updated 5 hours ago by FPN

Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in Olympic history, recently shared the high cost of preparing for a red carpet event.

In a TikTok video posted on April 27, 2026, the seven-time Olympic gold medalist revealed she spent $23,000 on styling, hair, and makeup for a single event. Biles expressed surprise at the expense, questioning if this is now standard for public figures, and stated she has “been kind of spiralling since then” and will “sit my a** right here where it’s free.”

Her candid remarks have resonated widely, drawing attention to the often-overlooked financial pressures associated with fame, red carpet events, and the celebrity beauty industry.

In the video, Biles addresses fellow athletes, influencers, and celebrities, asking, “I just need to know if this is normal. I know going outside is expensive as f*** these days, but is it this expensive?” She clarified that the total included a stylist fee and a full hair and makeup team. Biles added, “If that’s the new norm, y’all can have it. Y’all will never see me at another event. I’m going to sit my a** right here where it’s free.”

She later stated in the caption and comments that she is “staying inside for the foreseeable future,” and observed that prices can double or triple due to her name, highlighting what many refer to as a celebrity tax in the beauty industry.

This disclosure coincides with her recent appearance at the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, Spain, on April 20.

At the event, Biles served as an ambassador, presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Nadia Comaneci, and wore an $11,000 gold taffeta one-shoulder mini dress with feathered fringing by designer Cong Tri. She has received the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year award four times, including for her return at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Why Red Carpet Styling Costs So Much

Red carpet glamour doesn’t come cheap. For high-profile events, the process typically involves:

• Professional stylists: They curate looks, coordinate with designers, and ensure the outfit aligns with the individual’s image and brand partnerships. Fees can reach five or six figures when logistics, fittings, and exclusivity are included.
• Hair and makeup teams: Leading artists bring their own products, assistants, and tools. For individuals of Biles’ stature, expectations for flawless presentation are extremely high.
• Dress and accessories: Even when a gown is borrowed or returned, as Biles indicated, costs for alterations, insurance, and coordination accumulate. She also managed a last-minute wardrobe malfunction that required immediate sewing backstage.

 

Biles returned the dress after the event, so the $23,000 expense was primarily for services rather than the garment. While many celebrities receive complimentary designer loans and sponsored styling in exchange for exposure, not every appearance qualifies, particularly for athletes who are not regular Hollywood attendees.

This is not the first time public figures have raised concerns about the hidden costs of fame. Inflation, increased demand for elite talent after the pandemic, and the expectation for flawless, camera-ready appearances have contributed to rising prices throughout the industry.

Simone Biles has consistently spoken about mental health, body image, and the scrutiny athletes experience. During her trip to Spain, she posted on Instagram requesting that fans respect her privacy at the hotel, balancing appreciation for her supporters with the anxiety that ongoing attention can cause.

Her TikTok resonated because it offered insight into a frequently glamorised industry. Reactions were mixed, with some empathising with the “celebrity tax” and the demands of maintaining a public image, while others noted the disconnect given current economic challenges. Comments ranged from sarcastic critiques such as “This isn’t tone-deaf at all” to support for her authenticity and grounded approach.

Biles has consistently demonstrated that she values substance over spectacle. From her achievements in gymnastics to her advocacy for mental health and athletes’ rights, she prioritises what is most important. Her decision to “stay inside” rather than attend every red carpet event reflects her commitment to setting boundaries when emotional or financial costs become excessive.

Will We See Simone Biles on the Red Carpet Again?

Biles has established a life beyond competition, including her marriage to NFL player Jonathan Owens and ongoing business ventures. She may continue to make selective appearances for causes she supports, such as the Laureus Foundation’s work in sport for social good, while choosing not to attend events that require significant financial or emotional investment.

Her message is clear: fame should not require undue stress over appearance-related expenses. At times, choosing to stay home is the most valuable option.

In a culture focused on curated perfection, Simone Biles’ authenticity continues to resonate. Whether excelling in gymnastics or addressing industry challenges, she acts with power, grace, and honesty.

Do you consider $23,000 for a single red carpet appearance excessive, or is it a standard cost at the highest levels of public life? Please share your perspective.

Photo: Getty Images