Zendaya turned heads at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards in Los Angeles on March 12. The actor and singer appeared in a historic white dress that once belonged to two iconic figures: Whitney Houston and Carrie Bradshaw, the fictional fashion icon from Sex and the City.
The gown, designed by Eugene Stutzman, features a flowing white silhouette with gold detailing. Its most striking feature is a dramatic fabric flower that rises from the shoulder. Zendaya confidently posed for photographers and laughed with the crowd while showcasing the vintage design on the red carpet.
Her longtime stylist Law Roach highlighted the significance of the look on social media. On X, he described the dress as “an iconic piece of fashion history.” He also shared his excitement on Instagram, writing that he had finally found the legendary design.
The dress carries a unique place in pop culture history. Whitney Houston famously wore the piece in 1987. Years later, a photo of Houston in the dress appeared on the cover of Life magazine after her death in 2012. The gown gained another chapter in its legacy when Sarah Jessica Parker, as Carrie Bradshaw, wore it in the opening sequence of Sex and the City: The Movie in 2008.
Zendaya’s appearance in the historic design connects multiple generations of fashion and entertainment icons. The look blends nostalgia with modern red-carpet confidence, continuing her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most influential style figures.
The moment also comes during a busy year for the star. Zendaya will soon appear alongside Robert Pattinson in the upcoming film The Drama. She will also return as Rue Bennett in the third and final season of HBO’s Euphoria, which is expected to premiere in April.
Meanwhile, Euphoria recently sparked conversation online after composer Labrinth, who worked closely with Zendaya on the show’s soundtrack, posted a critical message about the industry on social media.
Despite the surrounding headlines, Zendaya’s vintage fashion tribute stood out as one of the most talked-about moments of the evening. By wearing the historic dress, she paid homage to two powerful cultural icons while adding her own chapter to the garment’s legacy.
