Of course, we can’t all slay the red carpet like Zendaya, but thanks to a new book from her stylist Law Roach, we can now at least give it a try.
Roach’s new book, How to Create a Fashion Icon: Confidence Notes from the World’s Only Image Stylist, shares the secrets behind his unique red carpet look. Loach’s A-list clients include Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Celine Dion, Megan Thee Stallion, and countless others. Through his book, Qi gives a behind-the-scenes look at how he crafts a wardrobe that works for her. “Throughout this long and winding journey, you have faithfully stood by me,” Roach said of Zendaya. “I hope you don’t mind as I reveal some of our secrets to the world in the next few pages.”
Ahead of the launch, Askum read up on how to become a fashion icon and compiled 8 key fashion tips to follow. Follow them and maybe–just maybe–you too will start dressing like an A-lister.
The key is confidence
Loach’s number one rule for looking flawless on the red carpet is to show strength and confidence – make sure you’re wearing the right clothes that you shouldn’t be wearing; “This is why people fell in love with the video of Megan Thee Stallion wearing a vintage 1997 Paco Rabanne two-piece,” Roach wrote. “What people really appreciated was that they could feel that she felt like she was ‘that girl.'”
Roach says confidence is a muscle that can be trained. You can hone it with practice. “People will tell you that confidence is something innate or natural, but that’s not always true… Building confidence is a gradual process that involves self-awareness, practice, and self-acceptance.
Develop your identity
Roach suggests thinking of clothing as a way to communicate identity. “Think of your style as your visual personality. It’s how you show up in the world,” he writes. “Before you start thinking about what clothes to wear that will make you a fashion icon, it’s important to understand that clothing is just a form of communication. You can speak to the world without opening your mouth.
He says the pieces in your wardrobe should reflect your inner passions, values and goals, For example, if you’re pursuing an important job promotion, choose clothes that are stylish and professional — your fashion should reflect the vision of where you want to go; where you want to go. “Style is a way of presenting yourself to the world and it helps you remind yourself of something,” he says.
Adopt storytelling
Roach says a killer red carpet look always tells a bigger story. “I don’t just create looks. I create moments,” he wrote. “Ultimately, I’m a storyteller. When I work with someone — whether it’s an editorial, an event, or the red carpet — I first have to know what I want. Before I even approach a wardrobe, I express it through my clothes.
Dress according to your mood, not according to the trend
While many stylists look to favorite seasonal trends or designers for inspiration, Roach says he prefers an emotional response rather than a put-together look. He adds that this is an important tip for anyone because it will help find a more unique end result. “When I try things on with clients, my concern is often not which dress is the prettiest or which pair of pants will look best,” he writes. “The important thing is which pieces bring out a certain emotion in them. I look for that breathless moment — but it doesn’t always come from the clothes you expect.
Give clothes a better life
While you might think that being a style icon like Zendaya means never wearing the same thing twice, Loach encourages the opposite. “Being a fashion icon means having the courage to bring your clothes to life,” he wrote. “If you find something you love, you shouldn’t just wear it once… There’s a lot of power in owning a piece of clothing, knowing how it fits on your body, knowing how you feel when you wear it.
Review Archives
Even if you’re looking to buy new wardrobe pieces, Roach recommends revisiting your wardrobe pieces to help inspire future fashion ideas. “Try everything you have — and yes, I really do mean everything,” he wrote. Trying on old clothes and asking yourself key questions can help you find the look or item you should invest in now. “How do you react to each piece? Do you remember why you just bought it? How do you feel? Why haven’t you worn it yet? Should you replace it?
Combine main components and power components
Roach said he has a particular look mix he loves among his clients: combining staples with power pieces. He says staple pieces are invaluable basics that you can mix and match at any time. “When there’s so much going on in your life and all this outside noise, owning something that you know you’ll never have to second-guess or rethink can be extremely beneficial,” he says. “If you can, buy a few so they’re always ready for use (especially if it’s multifunctional). You’ll thank yourself later.”
Meanwhile, power pieces are those bolder, more attention-grabbing pieces that can create a wow factor in your outfit. “Your power is the thing that inspires strong emotions within you,” he writes. “For me, I feel empowered when I wear something long that touches the floor. The length is elegant and majestic and makes me stand tall. Even the way I walk changes.”
Entering the Renaissance
What is Roach’s ultimate secret to becoming a fashion icon? Let go of your fears and don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself – even if it means completely changing your style. He equates style evolution with personal growth – a necessity. “Evolution is the way forward. Life is about constant progress and development, allowing you to become the best version of yourself,” he wrote. “Life is about reflection and reinvention. Don’t stand still. Don’t lose that spark. Keep evolving and pushing yourself.”
