Tonight, the 2024 Gotham Awards celebrate some of the buzziest films and television shows of the year. So, it was only natural that Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers be in the mix. Starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Fast, the tennis-themed project was one of the most-discussed movies of 2024. So much so that, this evening, Zendaya was honored for her performance, with the special Spotlight Tribute award. Naturally, given it was such a special night for the star, she had to bring out a stellar look for the occasion.

Stylist Law Roach worked with Zendaya to bring a sleek, modern design to life. The duo landed on a custom Louis Vuitton double satin off-white dress with an open back, designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. “We love collaborating with Nicolas,” Roach tells Vogue, adding that he wanted a more streamlined look for Zendaya tonight. “He approaches design with a certain intelligence that we really love. It’s really pretty—simple, sexy, and very modern.” Zendaya completed the ensemble with tasteful Bvlgari jewels and sleek heels. “She didn’t wear a lot of jewelry tonight,” says Roach. “It was really about a beautiful girl and a beautiful dress.”

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While Zendaya and Roach could have easily leaned back into the Challengers method dressing they pulled off last year (see all of the thematic looks here), the stylist says the pair wanted to nod back to the film in a more subtle way this time. “It feels in the same vein as this character we created for Tashi Duncan, but it’s not as character-driven as the press tour,” says Roach. Instead, they wanted to capture the subtle ease and glamour of Tashi. “It’s a little carry-over—maybe it’s Tashi a few years later,” says Roach. “But it’s mostly Zendaya, and where she is right now.”

Still, the impact of Roach’s styling throughout the Challengers tour remains impactful almost a year later; Virtually every Hollywood star is now doing method dressing in some way. As a pioneer of the movement, Roach says he still loves seeing the approach on the red carpet. “I think it’s great—it gives people things to talk about and starts conversations,” says Roach. “The best part about it is that the fans are entertained, because that’s what brings me joy. Because we’re so in fashion, sometime we forget how powerful it is, and how it can cheer people up and make them have a better day. It has the power to do that.”

Photo: Getty Images

Given tonight’s Gotham Awards serve as an unofficial kickoff to the 2025 awards season, those who follow red carpets closely are likely wondering if tonight’s look hints at what’s to come. For his part, Roach is taking each red carpet moment day by day. “Where I am in my career and where our relationship is, there’s no pressure,” says Roach. “I don’t want to go into awards season in a place where I need be stressed about it.” Still, we simply know this won’t be the last red carpet that Zendaya and Roach shut down this year. Plus, there are likely more awards for Zendaya to come. “I’m proud of her. Everybody knows that she’s like my little sister at this point,” says Roach. “Hopefully there’s more awards to come for her. And maybe for me, too!”