Zendaya Channels Athena in Angel Wings Dress at The Odyssey NYC Premiere

Published: July 15, 2026 Last Updated 1 hour ago by Esther Ejoh

Zendaya demonstrated her influence as a style icon at the New York City premiere of The Odyssey, wearing an angel-inspired white gown with large, feathered wings.

Styled by her longtime collaborator Law Roach, the ensemble from emerging French couture house Matières Fécales reflected the film’s mythical themes and highlighted Zendaya’s distinctive combination of drama and elegance. This appearance was the result of a two-year collaboration, thoughtfully merging high fashion with cinematic storytelling.

Portraying Athena in the film, Zendaya wore a striking white Matières Fécales gown featuring dramatic, floor-length feather wings to the Odyssey NYC premiere. While the look quickly went viral, its creation was the result of patience, vision, and a partnership that exemplifies red carpet excellence.

The “Ange Arc” gown featured an asymmetrical strapless neckline, intricate feather-inspired draping, and a flowing train that moved elegantly as Zendaya walked. The most striking element, the large realistic angel wings, extended from her back and created a memorable silhouette that captured the attention of photographers and fans.

Zendaya completed the look with Chopard diamond earrings, a soft fishtail braid, and sculptural white heels that added an architectural touch.

This moment was further distinguished by the careful planning behind it. Law Roach shared that he and Zendaya selected the Matières Fécales gown two years in advance, reserving it for a significant occasion.

Such long-term planning is uncommon in red carpet fashion and reflects the thoughtful, intentional approach that defines Zendaya’s style. Wearing angel wings for a film in which she portrays the goddess Athena was a thematically strong choice, seamlessly linking her on-screen role to her red carpet appearance.

The Matières Fécales gown demonstrated exceptional couture craftsmanship. The wings were integral to the design and required precise construction to balance visual impact with wearability.

Feather-like textures were created using layered, lightweight materials that allowed movement while maintaining their dramatic form. The gown’s draping and structure reflected a sophisticated understanding of how fabric can sculpt and enhance the body.

This look underscored Zendaya’s commitment to supporting emerging and independent designers. By selecting Matières Fécales for a high-profile event, she brought attention to new talent while presenting an appearance that aligned with her personal aesthetic.

While the rest of the cast, including Anne Hathaway, made notable appearances at AMC Lincoln Square, Zendaya’s ensemble surpassed typical premiere attire. Her look was not only fashion-forward but also a direct representation of her character and a strong example of method dressing.

The scale of the gown, with its wings, train, and ethereal white, evoked the presence of a Greek goddess on the red carpet.

Zendaya’s style is the result of a longstanding collaboration with her stylist, Law Roach. During the E! red carpet livestream, Zendaya shared, “Law put this on hold a long time ago. Like, two years ago,” she told Justin Sylvester.

This two-year preparation highlights their meticulous attention to detail and strategic planning, which consistently elevates Zendaya’s public appearances.

Their shared vision is central to their success. “We’re usually on the same page,” Zendaya explained. “We have gone back and forth a few times. It’s family, so that’s how we do it.” The Matières Fécales gown featured a strapless design, plunging neckline, thigh-high slit, and sculptural winged embellishments extending past her shoulders.

The look was both ethereal and powerful, reflecting the mythological inspiration. Accessories included white sculptural wedge heels, Chopard diamond chandelier earrings, and understated makeup that allowed the gown to stand out.

Zendaya also presented a second look during the New York Odyssey Premiere, further highlighting her attention to detail. While not a traditional outfit change as seen at the London premiere, she showcased another aspect of her Athena-inspired style by wearing brown goddess-inspired Alberta Ferretti dress with gladiator-inspired Sophia Webster heels.

This transition from angelic white and wings to a gilded warrior aesthetic reflected Athena’s duality as both the goddess of wisdom and warfare. The brown details and gladiator sandals highlighted the character’s strength, complementing the ethereal quality of the premiere gown.

Zendaya has established “method dressing” as her signature, using fashion to reflect her characters.

For The Odyssey, she demonstrated this approach with discipline and artistry. At the London world premiere, she wore a Schiaparelli gown resembling a marble statue, featuring a sculpted bodice with defined abs and ribs.

In New York, the winged gown referenced a deity of wisdom and warfare. For press events, gold details and gladiator elements reinforced the portrayal of Athena as a warrior goddess.

Preparation for the New York winged look included detailed styling. Coree Moreno styled Zendaya’s hair with waist-length extensions and a halo of frizz to create an organic, timeless effect.

Her makeup was soft and understated, featuring body glitter, rouged cheeks, contour highlighter, darkened brows, light mascara, glossy pink lips, and a dewy base, ensuring the gown remained the focal point.

The result was more than a film premiere; it became a cultural moment that generated significant social media attention. As one fan commented, “How do you keep Slaying every single time?”

Zendaya credited her team’s patient and thoughtful approach. The winged dress was carefully planned over two years, resulting in a modern-day Odyssey that met high expectations.

Photo: Getty Images