Zendaya'S Jaw-Dropping Fashion Moment: Borrowing Cate Blanchett'S Iconic Gown

Zendaya's Unforgettable Fashion Choice

In a move that has the fashion world buzzing, Zendaya took a page from Cate Blanchett's style book for the Rome premiere of 'The Drama' on March 26. Stepping onto the red carpet, she turned heads not in traditional bridal white, but in a stunning black Armani Privé dress that originally graced the figure of Blanchett.

The Dress That Keeps Giving

To quote my text chain with senior fashion news editor Halie LeSavage, "I'm actually gagged that they did this"—referring to the bold decision of borrowing such a recognizable piece from another red carpet icon. Stylist Law Roach extended his gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Cate Blanchett," for lending the plunge Armani Privé gown. Blanchett herself has worn it twice, proving its timeless allure.

“I'm actually gagged that they did this.”

Just like Blanchett, the gown fit Zendaya flawlessly. The sleeveless skintight bodice, gravity-defying hip panel, and elongated column train were all complemented by asymmetrical red almost-black gemstones, marking it unmistakably as Blanchett's iconic look.

Bling and Beauty: The Finishing Touches

Blanchett's generosity didn't stop at the dress. Zendaya also dazzled in Blanchett's Louis Vuitton jewelry. She adorned her ears with diamond-encrusted, fan-shaped Optimisme Earrings and swapped her usual engagement ring for the oversized Perception Ring from Louis Vuitton. Her makeup was equally striking, with sultry burgundy smoky eyeshadow that drew inspiration from her Paris premiere look.

Blanchett's Beloved Red Carpet Moment

Zendaya's daring choice to wear Blanchett's beloved gown is notable because the Oscar winner herself adored it enough to wear it twice. Blanchett gave the Armani Privé dress its red carpet debut at the 2022 SAG-AFTRA Awards, accessorizing it with Pomellato rings. Fast forward to the 2025 Venice Film Festival, and she donned it again, this time with the very same Louis Vuitton earrings Zendaya borrowed.

The Bond Between Fashion Icons

Why did Zendaya choose Blanchett's gown, you ask? While the two haven't shared the screen, they've certainly shared the spotlight at various A-list events, including the 2017 InStyle Awards and Louis Vuitton's Spring 2025 fashion show. Both are brand ambassadors for the Nicolas Ghesquière-led atelier, sparking speculation of a possible LV ambassador-only group chat that might have paved the way for this fashion moment.

Throughout 'The Drama's' press tour, Zendaya and Law Roach have been playing with the traditional wedding rhyme for their fashion choices. Starting with "something old" from Vivienne Westwood in Los Angeles, followed by "something new" from Louis Vuitton in Paris, fans are now left wondering: What will be Zendaya's "something blue"?