When one talks about modern-day fashion icons, Zendaya’s name is impossible to miss. She is a force that has transcended the confines of both fashion and Hollywood, breaking boundaries and making waves wherever she goes. A multi-hyphenate talent—actor, singer, producer—Zendaya has managed to establish herself as an undeniable presence in the fashion world. Her ability to seamlessly shift from high fashion on the red carpet to edgy streetwear during casual outings has made her a household name and a trendsetter.
But Zendaya’s influence isn’t just about looking fabulous. She has redefined what it means to be fashionable in the 21st century, using her platform to challenge industry norms, support diversity, and push for inclusivity. Zendaya doesn’t just wear clothes; she tells stories through her choices, embodying both the art and the statement behind fashion.
In this extensive look into Zendaya’s fashion journey, we will explore how she transitioned from a teenage Disney star into a fashion powerhouse, her most iconic red carpet moments, her groundbreaking collaborations with designers, her street style, and, of course, her latest fashion triumphs in September 2024. We’ll also delve into how Zendaya uses fashion to reflect her cultural identity, and the legacy she’s building in the world of style.
Zendaya’s Early Days: From Disney Channel to Fashion Darling
Before Zendaya became the fashion icon we know today, she was just a young actress growing up in the limelight. Starring in Disney Channel’s Shake It Up, Zendaya gained early fame alongside co-star Bella Thorne. At that time, her style was what you’d expect from a teen star: fun, youthful, and trend-driven. She was not yet the high-fashion darling but showed early signs of someone who wasn’t afraid to take risks.
Zendaya’s early red carpet appearances were filled with youthful energy. She played with bright colors, bold accessories, and whimsical outfits that matched her playful spirit. While these early looks may not have made her a staple of best-dressed lists, they set the stage for the fearless fashion experimentation that would soon define her public persona. It was clear, even then, that Zendaya wasn’t going to settle for conventional fashion choices. She was in the process of discovering her style voice—one that would eventually take over Hollywood.
Partnering with Law Roach: The Turning Point
The real shift in Zendaya’s fashion journey came when she partnered with stylist Law Roach. Their collaboration began in her early twenties and has since become one of the most celebrated partnerships in fashion. With Law Roach, Zendaya’s style evolved from teenage fun to sophisticated, high-fashion excellence. Roach, who describes himself as an “image architect,” played a key role in shaping Zendaya’s now-iconic looks, helping her take bold fashion risks while always keeping her appearance polished and refined.
This partnership has been a masterclass in celebrity styling. Together, Zendaya and Roach have created some of the most talked-about fashion moments in recent history. Zendaya’s looks began to move beyond mere outfits—they became statements. Whether she was channeling Old Hollywood glamour, embracing her heritage, or pushing the envelope with avant-garde ensembles, Zendaya was making a name for herself as someone who wasn’t just wearing clothes, but making art with them.
The Cultural Milestone: 2015 Oscars and Beyond
One of Zendaya’s first major fashion moments came at the 2015 Oscars, where she wore a white Vivienne Westwood gown paired with long locs. While the outfit was a stunning display of elegance, the focus quickly shifted when a TV host made derogatory comments about her hair. What could have been a painful moment turned into a powerful one when Zendaya responded with grace and eloquence, defending her choice to wear locs as a celebration of her Black heritage.
This incident marked a turning point not just for Zendaya, but for how fashion can be used as a platform for cultural advocacy. Zendaya took a personal attack and turned it into a statement on the importance of cultural pride and representation. The moment resonated deeply with people, especially young women of color who saw in Zendaya someone who wasn’t just beautiful but also proud of her roots. From that point on, it became clear that Zendaya wasn’t just going to be a passive participant in the fashion world—she was going to lead it.
Defining Collaborations: Tommy Hilfiger and Valentino
Zendaya’s collaborations with major designers have further cemented her status as a fashion icon. While she has worked with numerous top designers, two partnerships stand out in particular: Tommy Hilfiger and Valentino.
Tommy x Zendaya: Empowering Fashion for All
In 2019, Zendaya collaborated with Tommy Hilfiger to create a collection that celebrated diversity and empowerment. The collection, which was presented during Paris Fashion Week, was a celebration of ‘70s-inspired fashion, complete with bell-bottoms, statement blazers, and retro prints. But beyond the aesthetic appeal, the Tommy x Zendaya collection made waves for its inclusivity. Zendaya insisted on having models of all ages, sizes, and ethnicities walk the runway, making the show one of the most inclusive in recent fashion history.
What made this collaboration so groundbreaking wasn’t just the clothes—it was the message behind them. Zendaya was sending a clear message to the fashion industry: beauty comes in all forms, and fashion should reflect that. By using her platform to push for inclusivity, Zendaya demonstrated that she wasn’t just a trendsetter—she was a changemaker.
Valentino: A Marriage of Elegance and Modernity
Zendaya’s ongoing collaboration with Valentino has produced some of her most iconic red carpet looks. As the face of Valentino, Zendaya has worn the brand’s couture gowns to major events, consistently topping best-dressed lists. One of the most memorable moments came in 2022 when she attended the Valentino fashion show in Paris, wearing an all-fuchsia suit paired with platform heels. The monochromatic look was bold, modern, and sophisticated, perfectly encapsulating Zendaya’s ability to blend high fashion with a contemporary edge.
Her partnership with Valentino is a testament to her versatility as a fashion icon. Whether she’s wearing a flowing gown or a tailored suit, Zendaya brings an air of confidence and ease to everything she wears. Valentino Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli has often praised Zendaya for her ability to embody the brand’s ethos of combining elegance with modernity. Together, they’ve created some of the most memorable fashion moments in recent history.
Red Carpet Royalty: Zendaya’s Iconic Fashion Moments
If there’s one place where Zendaya consistently steals the show, it’s the red carpet. Over the years, she has delivered look after look, each one more stunning and innovative than the last. Zendaya’s red carpet moments aren’t just about looking good—they’re about making a statement. Each outfit tells a story, and Zendaya has become a master at using fashion to communicate her identity, her values, and her creativity.
2019 Met Gala: Channeling Cinderella
One of Zendaya’s most iconic red carpet appearances came at the 2019 Met Gala, themed “Camp: Notes on Fashion.” For the event, Zendaya transformed into a modern-day Cinderella, complete with a glowing gown designed by Tommy Hilfiger. The look wasn’t just a dress—it was a performance. Styled by Law Roach, who played the role of her fairy godmother, Zendaya’s gown lit up as she made her way up the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, turning the red carpet into her own magical kingdom.
The Cinderella look was a perfect blend of high fashion and theatricality, a true embodiment of the Met Gala’s “Camp” theme. But beyond the spectacle, the look also represented Zendaya’s journey from Disney princess to Hollywood royalty. It was a nod to her past while also showcasing her ability to command attention and take risks in her fashion choices.
2021 Oscars: The Neon Valentino Gown
Another unforgettable red carpet moment came at the 2021 Oscars when Zendaya stunned in a vibrant yellow Valentino gown. The bright, sunny color was a bold choice, but it worked perfectly on Zendaya, who paired the gown with flowing hair and Bulgari jewelry. The gown’s sleek silhouette and flowing fabric made Zendaya look like a modern-day goddess, and the look quickly became one of the most talked-about outfits of the night.
What made this look so iconic was its simplicity. While many stars opt for intricate designs and heavy embellishments on the Oscars red carpet, Zendaya kept things streamlined and elegant. The bold color did all the talking, proving once again that Zendaya knows how to make a statement without overdoing it.
2022 Venice Film Festival: Wet-Look Balmain
At the 2022 Venice Film Festival, Zendaya once again left audiences speechless when she appeared in a custom Balmain gown designed to look wet. The nude, skin-tight dress clung to her body as though it had been molded directly onto her skin, creating the illusion that she had just emerged from the water. The effect was stunning, and the look quickly went viral.
The wet-look Balmain gown was a perfect example of Zendaya’s ability to push boundaries while still maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication. It was a risky choice, but one that paid off, further cementing her reputation as a fashion icon who isn’t afraid to take chances.
Zendaya’s Street Style: Effortless Cool
While Zendaya’s red carpet looks often steal the spotlight, her street style is equally impressive. Off the red carpet, Zendaya manages to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style, effortlessly blending high fashion with casual cool. Whether she’s stepping out in oversized blazers, graphic tees, or tailored trousers, Zendaya’s street style is always on point.
One of the key elements of Zendaya’s street style is her ability to mix high-end designer pieces with more affordable, accessible brands. She’s just as likely to wear a pair of Nikes as she is to rock a pair of Louboutins, and this blend of high and low fashion has made her a relatable style icon for fans around the world.
Zendaya’s street style often reflects her mood and current projects. For instance, when promoting her role in Euphoria, she was frequently seen in grunge-inspired outfits that echoed the edgy, emotional themes of the show. Conversely, when promoting her collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger, her street style took on a more retro, ‘70s-inspired vibe, complete with flared jeans, printed blouses, and oversized sunglasses.
Zendaya’s Latest Looks
zendaya serving two looks in new york last night. pic.twitter.com/8I08j6430u
— pop culture gal (@allurequinn) September 22, 2024
Zendaya had already solidified her place as a fashion icon. Yet, she continued to surprise and delight her fans with bold, innovative looks that pushed the boundaries of modern fashion. Her September 2024 appearances showcased her versatility, blending high fashion with cultural references, and her ability to remain effortlessly chic in any setting.
At a September 2024 Venice Film Festival appearance, Zendaya wore a custom Valentino gown that combined classic elegance with avant-garde design elements. The gown, which featured a flowing silhouette paired with dramatic, structured shoulders, was a visual masterpiece, demonstrating Zendaya’s ability to walk the line between traditional and experimental fashion.
Later in the month, Zendaya made waves again at a New York Fashion Week event, where she stepped out in a futuristic metallic jumpsuit designed by Balmain. The sleek, reflective fabric of the jumpsuit caught the light perfectly, making Zendaya appear almost ethereal as she walked through the event. Paired with minimalist makeup and a slicked-back ponytail, the look was a nod to futuristic fashion while still maintaining a timeless appeal.
Zendaya’s September 2024 looks further solidified her reputation as one of the most versatile fashion icons of her generation. Whether she’s attending a film festival, fashion week, or simply stepping out for a casual event, Zendaya’s style choices always make a statement.
Zendaya’s Enduring Legacy in Fashion
Looking forward, it’s clear that Zendaya will continue to be a force in the fashion world. With each new red carpet appearance, magazine cover, or fashion campaign, she further solidifies her place as one of the most influential fashion icons of our time. Her ability to mix high fashion with accessible style, her dedication to inclusivity, and her fearless approach to experimenting with her looks have set her apart from her peers.
Zendaya’s legacy in fashion is not just about the stunning clothes she wears, but about the stories she tells through those clothes. Whether she’s channeling a retro vibe, stepping out in a futuristic ensemble, or making a cultural statement, Zendaya’s fashion choices always reflect her creativity, intelligence, and passion for using style as a tool for self-expression.
As we look to the future, Zendaya’s influence in the fashion world will only continue to grow. She is not just a muse for designers; she is a visionary whose impact on the fashion world will be felt for generations to come.
In conclusion, Zendaya’s fashion evolution from Disney star to global icon is a story of empowerment, creativity, and breaking boundaries. With her September 2024 looks, she once again demonstrated why she’s one of the most celebrated figures in fashion. Whether she’s walking a red carpet or casually stepping out for coffee, Zendaya’s fashion choices are always a reflection of her confidence, intelligence, and commitment to using style as a form of self-expression.
