Zendaya’s stylist, Law Roach, recently shared some shocking information about the early struggles they faced in getting Zendaya dressed by major fashion houses. He revealed that the five major fashion houses, Saint Laurent, Dior, Valentino, Chanel, and Gucci, initially refused to dress Zendaya at the onset of her career. Despite Roach’s efforts in reaching out to these renowned brands, they consistently turned them down, citing reasons such as Zendaya being “too green” or not being on their calendar.
Roach emphasized that even as Zendaya’s career soared, she and him continued to evade the traditional fashion elites, with Zendaya never wearing any designs from these five major fashion houses on red carpets or public appearances. While Zendaya did showcase pieces from these designers in editorial shoots, they made a conscious choice to steer clear of them for high-profile events. The first time Zendaya wore Valentino in public was when she had a contract, highlighting their determination to break away from the norms of the fashion industry.
It is evident that breaking into the traditional fashion scene was not an easy feat for Zendaya and Roach. The rejection faced from the big five fashion houses sheds light on the challenges and biases prevalent in the industry. Law Roach himself expressed his frustration with the politics and lies within the fashion world, which led him to announce his retirement in 2023. The industry pressures and false narratives ultimately pushed him to step back from fashion temporarily.
Despite the setbacks and challenges faced, Law Roach made a comeback in February, styling Celine Dion for her return to the 2024 Grammys stage. His return was marked by styling Zendaya for the 2024 Met Gala, where she served as a co-chair. Zendaya stunned in two glamorous gowns, proving that her fashion choices transcend the boundaries set by the traditional elite fashion houses. This triumphant return showcased their resilience and ability to make a mark in the fashion world on their terms.
Zendaya’s journey to becoming a fashion icon was not without its hurdles. The rejection from major fashion houses only fueled her and Law Roach’s determination to carve their own path in the industry. By defying traditional standards and choosing authenticity over conformity, Zendaya has solidified her status as a trendsetter and style influencer. The story of Zendaya and Law Roach serves as a reminder that success in the fashion world is not solely determined by the approval of prestigious brands, but rather by one’s unique style, resilience, and unwavering self-belief.