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fashion twist

Tom Brady wears velvet heels to Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's starry pre-wedding party

The NFL legend turned heads this week not just for attending one of the year's most high-profile wedding celebrations but for doing it in style


Senior Writer
JUNE 27, 2025 2:59 PM EDT

Tom Brady knows how to command a room and, apparently, a boat ride in Venice without even throwing a football. The NFL legend turned heads this week not just for attending one of the year's most high-profile wedding celebrations but for doing it in style with an unexpected (and kind of fabulous) fashion twist.

The seven-time Super Bowl champ, 47, was among the A-listers who descended on Venice for the lavish wedding festivities of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and media powerhouse Lauren Sánchez. And while the event boasted a guest list packed with Hollywood royalty, billionaires, and style icons, Brady's quirky footwear had everyone doing a double-take.

US football player Tom Brady gets on a taxi boat at the Gritti Palace Hotel ahead of the wedding of Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos with Lauren Sanchez in Venice on June 26, 2025. © AFP via Getty Images
US football player Tom Brady gets on a taxi boat at the Gritti Palace Hotel ahead of the wedding of Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos with Lauren Sanchez in Venice on June 26, 2025.

A Velvet Power Move

Tom showed up for Thursday's pre-wedding bash looking like the definition of sleek, but with a wink. He rocked a smart tan blazer, black trousers, and a partially unbuttoned crisp white shirt that oozed relaxed European cool. But the true MVP moment of his ensemble was the black velvet opera shoes, accented with dark teal bows on top.

The heeled loafers are believed to be a luxe pair from Stubbs & Wootton, retailing for around $650. As fashion risks go, this one worked. Brady's bold yet polished choice felt playful, subtly rebellious, and unmistakably confident. 

Venice Vibes, Star-Studded Company

Tom Brady also seemed to be fully enjoying his role as the smooth, unattached VIP soaking in the Venetian romance. He was spotted leaving the luxe Graffiti Palace Hotel with newly single actor Orlando Bloom (who just split from Katy Perry) before hopping aboard a boat to the historic Madonna dell'Orto.

© GC Images
Former NFL Quarterback Tom Brady arrives at Venice Marco Polo airport ahead of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Wedding on June 26, 2025 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Mazzola/GC Images)

Also in tow were power players Alex Spiro and Corey Gamble, forming a casually stylish boy band. Before heading to the festivities, the group grabbed lunch on a shaded veranda, blending in with the glitterati as they cruised canals and made conversation.

Brady was also seen deep in chat with Wendi Deng, Rupert Murdoch's ex-wife and a style maven in her own right. Both were believed to be single, and the duo looked comfortable and animated as they walked together to the evening's events. Deng stunned in a ruffled sleeveless designer gown and heels, keeping pace with Brady's relaxed swagger.

© Backgrid/The Grosby Group
Guests get into a boat and head to Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's pre-wedding celebration in Venice. In this photo: Tom Brady.

Since his split from Gisele Bündchen in 2022 after 13 years of marriage and two kids (Benjamin, 15, and Vivian, 12), Brady's romantic life has made headlines. He briefly dated model Irina Shayk in 2023, and there were rumors of a possible fling with Kim Kardashian in early 2024. But as of now, Brady seems to be enjoying his bachelor chapter.

Meanwhile, Gisele has fully moved on with Jiu-Jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente, welcoming a baby with him earlier this year. Still, Brady looks far from heartbroken, especially when surrounded by Europe's dreamiest canals and the world's most glamorous crowd.

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