Zendaya Channels Whitney Houston and Carrie Bradshaw in Iconic Dress

Bassyonni

Published: March 13, 2026 5:12 PM ET

Zendaya has made a stunning return to the red carpet, showcasing her new haircut at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards. Accompanied by stylist Law Roach, she donned a remarkable vintage dress that carries a rich fashion history.

Zendaya Channels Whitney Houston and Carrie Bradshaw in Iconic Dress

The standout piece Zendaya wore is a vintage Cachè dress, which is a re-creation of a classic design by Eugene Alexander from the 1980s. This dress is particularly memorable as it was famously worn by Carrie Bradshaw, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, in the opening scene of the “Sex and the City” movie.

A Dress with a Legacy

The dress not only has ties to Hollywood but also to music legend Whitney Houston. In 1987, Houston wore the original version of this iconic dress for a promotional photo shoot. Following her passing in 2012, the image appeared on the cover of Life magazine, further cementing its place in pop culture.

Zendaya’s Look: Vintage Cachè dress inspired by Eugene Alexander
Connections: Worn by Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City”
Historical Significance: Original worn by Whitney Houston in 1987

Law Roach, Zendaya’s stylist, referred to the dress as one of the “most iconic dresses in movie history” on his Instagram. While some may debate the most iconic look from the film, Zendaya’s recreation definitely pays homage to both Houston and Bradshaw.

Future Fashion Inspirations

This homage to Carrie Bradshaw opens the door for exciting fashion possibilities. Fans are left wondering what Zendaya might showcase next, particularly as she promotes upcoming projects like “The Drama” and “Dune: Part Three.” With her flair for the dramatic, creative outfits like a whimsical tutu or oversized gingham hat could be on the horizon.

As Zendaya continues to shine on the red carpet, her choice of attire reflects her unique blend of style and homage to fashion icons. Stay updated for more on the latest trends and styles in the entertainment world.