Zendaya: From Disney star to fashion icon
A-LIST ATTIRE : 08 MAY : Written By AJ Janthapak
Zendaya wearing Balmain SS24 Olivier Rousteing
From watching Zendaya in the early 2000s, we all knew Zendaya has a passion for the craft and exudes undeniable star power. Her quirky and endearing acting skills, showcased on Disney Channel through popular shows like "Shake It Off" and "KC Undercover," captivated audiences and endeared her to fans worldwide. Zendaya's career has evolved significantly, cementing her status as a global phenomenon through notable appearances in acclaimed productions such as HBO's renowned TV show "Euphoria" and the well-received trilogy of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man films.
Fast forward to the present day, Zendaya has made significant strides in the fashion industry under the guidance of the esteemed American stylist, Law Roach. Roach has established himself as a prominent figure in the realm of fashion, most notably through his involvement in "Legendary," a widely recognized TV reality competition showcasing voguing teams from the underground ballroom community as they engage in fashion-related activities and dance challenges. Furthermore, Roach has garnered acclaim for his work in styling renowned personalities such as Celine Dion and Anya Taylor-Joy.
So when did her fashion become popular?
via Instagram @Zendaya
It was absolutely in the 2012 “Swag it out” instagram era, a monumental time in pop history. OKAY it wasn’t but that truly was a time we need to talk about in future blogs.
‘‘Fashion is a great thing.
It's a way to express who you are.’’
Zendaya first received acclaim for her fashion sense towards the end of 2015 and the beginning of 2016, particularly after her debut at the 2015 Met Gala. She made a striking impression in a bespoke Fausto Puglisi dress featuring a sun-motif design, combining a black bodice with a well-defined red skirt. Unlike many celebrities who transition from a youthful image to a complete opposite aesthetic, often associated with platforms like Disney Channel, Zendaya chose a sophisticated yet vibrant path.
At the 58th Annual Grammys, she captivated audiences with another iconic look that solidified her status as a fashion trailblazer. Her androgynous style, complete with a bold mullet and impeccably tailored suit, elicited a media frenzy, sparking discussions and admiration for her fearless approach to fashion.
AJ’S TOP FAVOURITE LOOKS
Zendaya has brought numerous jaw-dropping outfits to the forefront of mainstream media, making it quite a challenge to narrow down her top 5 best looks. Her unparalleled sense of style and impeccable fashion choices continuously captivate audiences around the world. Let’s get into my top fave looks by this icon.
Dune 2 Premiere Vintage Mugler 1995 ‘Cirque d’hiver’ 20th-anniversary :I vividly recall the moment I learned of Zendaya donning the ICONIC vintage Mugler chrome suit. The internet came to a standstill as the ensemble made waves. Comprising intricately positioned chrome elements paired with a translucent bra, embellished with silver-like adornments.
The Met Gala 2018 Heavenly Bodies ‘ Versace : Zendaya's outfit at the Met Gala 2018, portraying Joan of Arc in a Versace gown, embodied the theme exceptionally. The actress donned a custom chainmail gown paired with an armored neck and shoulder piece, showcasing a striking interpretation of the iconic historical figure. When I think of Zendaya, I think of this ensemble.
Spiderman No Way Home ‘Roberto Cavalli’ : The press tour begun for Spiderman! Zendaya loves a reference.As a Marvel/Spiderman fan, The "Doc Oc" inspired back piece left me in awe. When paired with a classic little black dress, The outfit showed class and style.
The Met Gala 2019 Camp Notes of Fashion ‘Tommy Hilfiger’ : Zendaya made a striking impression at the Met Gala 2019 with a mesmerizing "Cinderella" lit-up dress styled by Law Roach. The dress not only stood out on its own but also captivated the media as it lit up and changed colors in response to the cameras flashing frenziedly.
Dune 1 Premiere ‘Balmain’ : The Balmain dress exudes sophistication and artistry, meticulously crafted from luxurious leather. Inspired by the deserts depicted in the movie "Dune," this dress captures a sense of elegance and power that is truly exceptional.
Zendaya is undeniably carving out a path to solidify her status as the IT-girl of the 2000s, capturing the hearts of many with her exceptional talent and distinctive style. Witnessing her continuous growth is a source of immense delight for her admirers, eagerly anticipating the unveiling of countless more iconic ensembles and moments that will undoubtedly leave a mark in fashion history.