Isla Gordon's Power Suits: Kate Hudson's Fashion in Running Point

Isla Gordon is a character who commands attention from the very start of Running Point. Played by Kate Hudson, she exudes confidence in meticulously tailored suits that reflect her authority. As the newly appointed president of the fictional basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves, Isla must navigate the pressures of leadership while standing out in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Designing the Look

"We wanted Isla to look powerful while embracing her femininity," explains costume designer Salvador Pérez. "Rather than opting for traditional corporate styles, we chose pieces that blended strength with sophistication." Designers like Gabriela Hearst and Favorite Daughter played a key role in shaping Isla’s wardrobe, ensuring that each outfit struck the perfect balance between structure and style.

Real-World Inspiration

The character of Isla takes inspiration from figures like Lakers president Jeanie Buss, who transitioned into a leadership role within her family’s business. Pérez recalls visiting the Lakers’ offices and noting Buss’s casual yet authoritative style. "She often wears jeans and blazers, which shows that leadership comes in many forms," he notes. Isla’s wardrobe, however, elevates this idea into a polished, high-fashion approach suitable for television.

Defining the Power Suit

Stepping into a role previously dominated by her older brothers, Isla uses fashion as a tool to establish credibility. "A woman standing tall in a room full of men has a unique energy," says Hudson. Every outfit worn by Isla was carefully curated and approved by Pérez, Hudson, and her longtime stylist Sophie Lopez. Even co-star Brenda Song, who plays Isla’s best friend Ali, was captivated by the styling. "Every day, I was excited to see what Kate would wear next," she shares.

Key Moments & Standout Looks

Curious about where Isla’s most striking ensembles came from? Here’s a closer look at some of her defining fashion moments:

Setting the Tone

In the opening sequence of Running Point, Isla is seen in a sleek Gabriela Hearst suit. Pérez reveals that this look was chosen later in production when the scene was added. "I had been holding onto that suit, and when they needed something for the introduction, I knew it was perfect. The dark, structured silhouette adds an air of mystery and authority."

A Statement in Pink

For Isla’s first game as team president, she wears a bold pink Seroya suit. "We debated whether it felt too much like Barbie," Pérez admits. "But it was exactly the right choice for her character’s transition into leadership." Since Isla starts off as someone who enjoyed a social, party-filled lifestyle, the pink suit represents a mix of her past and her new role. As the season progresses, her wardrobe evolves, reflecting her growing confidence and adaptation to the high-stakes sports industry.

The Final Touch

By the end of the season, Isla appears in a refined blush pink Sasuphi suit, paired with an elegant organza blouse. "This was one of our absolute favorites," says Pérez. "It encapsulates power, elegance, and success." Each episode’s styling choices were reviewed meticulously to align with Isla’s development, ensuring a seamless visual narrative.

A Nostalgic Callback

One particularly memorable outfit features Isla in a butter-yellow Sandro suit, a subtle nod to a well-known moment in Hudson’s career. "The shade is reminiscent of the dress from How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," Pérez notes. "At first, Kate wasn’t sure about it, but we knew it was a standout look." To complete the outfit, Isla pairs it with a matching Jacquemus top and blue heels, carrying a designer bag that, fun fact, was borrowed from Mindy Kaling’s personal collection.

Fashion as a Storytelling Tool

Every aspect of Isla Gordon’s wardrobe in Running Point was designed with intention. "Costumes are a silent narrator," says Pérez. "They reflect the journey of a character without saying a word." Isla’s outfits not only establish her as a force to be reckoned with but also highlight her evolution throughout the series. Whether in bold colors or classic tailoring, her wardrobe is a testament to the power of style in storytelling.

For fans inspired by Isla’s looks, exploring structured blazers, statement pieces, and polished yet playful designs is a great way to channel the confidence and charisma she brings to the screen.