Law Roach and Zendaya are a dynamic duo in the fashion world. The celebrity stylist and the actress have been working together for 13 years, creating iconic looks that showcase Zendaya’s versatility and personality. For the press tour of Dune: Part Two, the sci-fi epic in which Zendaya plays a mysterious warrior named Chani, they decided to take their collaboration to the next level and create a fashion fantasy inspired by the film’s futuristic and dystopian aesthetic. Here’s how they did it.
The Inspiration
Roach and Zendaya are both fans of the Dune franchise, based on the novels by Frank Herbert. They were excited to be part of the film adaptation, directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, and Jason Momoa. They wanted to pay homage to the film’s vision and themes, while also expressing Zendaya’s individuality and style.
Roach told Vogue that he and Zendaya approached the press tour as a form of method dressing, meaning that they tried to channel Zendaya’s character and the film’s mood through their fashion choices. They also wanted to have fun and experiment with different looks, from vintage to couture, from edgy to elegant. They drew inspiration from various sources, such as the film’s costumes, the original books, the previous adaptations, and the artworks of Moebius and H.R. Giger.
The Process
Roach and Zendaya have a close and trusting relationship, which allows them to communicate and collaborate effectively. They usually start by discussing the concept and mood of each look, then Roach researches and sources the pieces, and Zendaya tries them on and gives her feedback. They also consult with the film’s team and the designers to make sure that their looks are aligned with the film’s branding and vision.
Roach said that he and Zendaya like to challenge themselves and push the boundaries of fashion. They are not afraid to take risks and experiment with different silhouettes, colors, textures, and details. They also like to mix and match different eras and styles, creating a unique and eclectic vibe. They are especially fond of vintage and archival pieces, which they buy rather than borrow, to support small businesses and promote sustainability.
The Looks
Roach and Zendaya created a series of stunning looks for each premiere and event of the Dune: Part Two press tour, each one reflecting a different aspect of the film and Zendaya’s character. Here are some of the highlights:
For the Venice Film Festival, Zendaya wore a custom-made leather gown by Balmain, featuring a corseted bodice, a high slit, and a long train. The look was inspired by the film’s leather costumes and the desert landscape of Arrakis, the planet where the film is set. Zendaya accessorized the look with a pair of diamond earrings by Bulgari and a sleek ponytail.
For the Paris premiere, Zendaya wore a vintage dress by Alaïa, from the designer’s Fall 1996 collection. The dress was a sheer black mesh with a halter neck and a flared skirt, embellished with silver beads and crystals. The look was inspired by the film’s futuristic and glamorous aesthetic, as well as Zendaya’s admiration for the late designer. Zendaya paired the dress with a pair of black pumps by Christian Louboutin and a simple bun.
For the London premiere, Zendaya wore a custom-made white gown by Maison Valentino, designed by Pierpaolo Piccioli. The gown was a strapless column with a feathered cape, creating a dramatic and ethereal effect. The look was inspired by the film’s mystical and spiritual elements, as well as Zendaya’s character’s connection to nature and dreams. Zendaya completed the look with a pair of diamond earrings by Bulgari and a sleek bob.
For the New York premiere, Zendaya wore a couture gown by Stephane Rolland, from the designer’s Spring 2024 collection. The gown was a cream-colored knit with a cut-out bodice and a sculptural hem, adorned with gold metal details. The look was inspired by the film’s futuristic and minimalist style, as well as Zendaya’s character’s strength and elegance. Zendaya accessorized the look with a pair of gold nails and rings by Bulgari and a wavy hairstyle.
Roach and Zendaya have proven once again that they are a power couple of fashion and film, and a power couple to watch. They have shown that they can create a sci-fi fashion fantasy that is both faithful to the film and expressive of their own creativity and personality. They have also shown that they can have fun and enjoy the process, while also making a statement and inspiring others.
