Game, set, match. For the UK premiere of Challengers, our May cover star Zendaya continued her unrelenting red carpet winning streak with a high-slung plaited ponytail that played off her thematic Thom Browne.
Her country club glam began with combed-back blonde, the pony’s slicked crown giving way to a taut braid that fell between shoulder blades and finished just past the waist. A white ribbon offered a romantic addition, lending well to the Zendaya’s play on preppy. A velvety red lip and ample brush of blush ensured the moment skewed more glamorous than than twee, a beauty combination dramatic enough for her sort red carpet wear.
The actor is proving to be a (the) master of method dressing, working with stylist Law Roach to conceptualize looks that tell an entire visual story. Her sequined halter gown—featuring referential detailing, from polo collar to racket motif to mesh pleated panels—was an all-out ode to tennis, one furthered by her exaggerated take on the court-ready pony. The braid was just the latest in a parade of press looks that prove promotional styling is a full-on art. As with her character Tashi, when Zendaya’s playing the game, it can be hard to keep up.
