Zendaya’s Latest Look is Pure Homage to Venus and Serena Williams

Published: April 19, 2024 Last Updated 6 months ago by FPN SEO

Another day, another fabulous look from Zendaya’s Challengers press tour. But this time, the American actress paid homage to the Williams sisters with her tennis-inspired wardrobe.

Her stylist Law Roach shared a photo of Zendaya in a magnificent black and white ball gown that pays homage to a 1998 photo shoot of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams by Annie Leibovitz.

The dress, meticulously crafted by Carolina Herrera creative director Wes Gordon, features wide vertical strips of black and white that elegantly sculpt the piece’s waist-snatching bodice and voluminous skirt. The gown perfectly replicates the champion-worthy aesthetic of the original photo shoot, showcasing Zendaya’s stunning elegance and style.

Not only did Zendaya nail the fashion aspect of the look, but she also paid attention to the details. She styled her hair in shoulder-length white beads, reminiscent of the signature style worn by the Williams sisters on the tennis court in the ’90s and early ’00s.

The wig was expertly crafted by hairstylists Kim Kimble and Ursula Stephen, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the homage.

Throughout the Challengers press tour, Zendaya has consistently delivered one tennis-core look after another, with each ensemble capturing the essence of her character Tashi Duncan, a fictional tennis superstar.

The actress’s dedication to showcasing the sport’s aesthetic and heritage in her wardrobe choices has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the support she received from Venus Williams herself at the film’s Los Angeles premiere.

Venus Williams, who attended the premiere in a stunning textured gray corseted minidress by Vivienne Westwood Couture, demonstrated her approval of Zendaya’s portrayal of tennis in the film with her presence. 

“I heard that she came and I was like, ‘No way! This is the coolest thing,’ ” Zendaya said to Entertainment Tonight while acknowledging the presence of Venus at the premiere. “I know Serena’s seen the movie, but I’m very nervous about [Venus] seeing my tennis. Like, ooh, girl … I apologize in advance.”