The Zendaya-approved way to wear white without looking like a bride


Wearing white doesn't have to mean wedding bells – here's how to wear the hue while steering clear of the aisle


The star has worn a string of white looks this past week© Getty Images
Tania Leslau
Tania LeslauFashion Features Editor
1 hour ago
Share this:

It may be wedding season, but that doesn't mean all white ensembles need to be bridal. Take it from Zendaya. The actress has been doling out the dreamy white looks courtesy of The Odyssey press tour. With a helping hand from her long-standing stylist Law Roach, the Hollywood muse has delivered a masterclass in wedding-agnostic white dressing.

Which begs the question - how does one execute the perfect white look without looking destined for the altar? 

There are several answers to this predicament. Firstly, the issue of silhouette. Thankfully, the spring/summer 2026 runways were an hautebed (couldn't resist, apologies) of white creations. Toga delivered preppy, sports-inspired minis, while Cecilie Bahnsen tapped into the designer’s signature ballooning designs with a utilitarian twist. Zimmermann made a case for Stevie Nicks style, funnelling long-sleeved, boho-chic maxis down the catwalk, while Yuhan Wang championed Midsommar-inspired frocks and ditsy florals. 

A photo of Zendaya wearing a white dress © GC Images
Zendaya's wearing Jacquemus Spring 2027 during the press tour

Next up? Material. Silks and satins are a go-to for wedding dresses, meaning less fluid fibres - think cotton, linen and tulle - are a safe bet. Beachy styles such as kaftans, wrap dresses and shapeless throw-ons never fail to radiate off-duty elegance, while feminine fabrics like broderie anglaise remain an evergreen classic. 

Calvin Klein SS26© Imaxtree
Calvin Klein SS26
Zimmermann SS26© Imaxtree
Zimmermann SS26
Cecilie Bahnsen SS26© Imaxtree
Cecilie Bahnsen SS26
Toga SS26© Imaxtree
Toga SS26

Finally, as Ms Zendaya demonstrates, the best way to avoid looking bridal is attitude. Cut-out panels, string accents, extravagant sleeves, T-shirt silhouettes and statement accessories all help to set the bold dresser apart from the bride. A lick of blue eyeshadow and black manicure never hurt either. 

zendaya at the met gala 2025© Variety via Getty Images
The star has worn a string of white looks in the past, including this Louis Vuitton by Pharrell Williams suit at the 2025 Met Gala

Take a leaf out of Zendaya’s style guide and read on for some style inspo to help you steer away from bridal territory below.

How to wear white this season:

Zendaya and stylist Law Roach are seen on July 13, 2026 in New York City.  © GC Images

T-Shirt Style

The actress stepped out in New York alongside her stylist Law Roach earlier this week, sporting a striking number hailing from Jacquemus' 2027 spring collection. The avant-garde dress featured a T-shirt silhouette and cut-out panels, making for a modern take on all-white dressing. 

Zendaya attends the world premiere of "The Odyssey" at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on July 06, 2026© WireImage

Naked Dressing

Dazzling in Daniel Roseberry's Schiaparelli (fall 2026 couture to be precise), Zendaya showcased a meticulously beaded look complete with a silicone-molded bodice and a high neckline. Equal parts daring and elegant, the beautifully-crafted number turned heads.

zendaya in grecian set© GC Images

Grecian Glamour

Chanelling her character Athena, the star hit the streets in a fluidly draped set from Khaite's 2027 resort collection. A plunging neckline, a cinched waistband and black belted detailing made for a stunning sartorial ode to Grecian glamour. 

Zendaya attends the "The Odyssey" Paris Premiere on July 08, 2026 in Paris, France. © Getty Images

XL Ruffles

Zendaya took to the floor in one of her most sensational looks to date - a custom Louis Vuitton gown complete with contemporary cut-outs across the stomach, whispers of sensual lace and a sweetheart bustier. A dramatically ruffled bolero made for a stunning final touch to the must-see look.

 Zendaya attends "The Odyssey" Photocall at the IET Building: Savoy Place on July 05, 2026© Getty Images

Major Accessories

Another custom moment courtesy of Jacquemus, Zendaya nailed luxurious summer style in a backless, draped white number by the French house. She completed the ethereal ensemble with a chic headscarf and large gold earrings that glimmered in the London sunshine. 

zendaya in fringed mini dress

Noughties Nostalgia

The Hollywood It-girl stepped out in London during her stay, making a case for archival dress codes. She slipped into an Alberta Ferretti spring/summer 2008 mini dress that once again paid homage to the actress' onscreen character. The fringed, V-neck dress was teamed with mesmerising gladiator sandal-heels by Sophia Webster.