How to Get Zendaya’s Red Carpet Look on a Budget

Zendaya is known for her impeccable style, especially when it comes to red carpet appearances. Whether she’s at the Oscars, Met Gala, or any other high-profile event, Zendaya always manages to turn heads with her bold choices, fashion-forward silhouettes, and attention to detail. But what if you don’t have a celebrity budget? Don’t worry—getting a Zendaya-inspired red carpet look on a budget is absolutely possible with some creativity, strategic shopping, and smart styling.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to channel Zendaya’s red carpet style while keeping your wallet happy.

1. Embrace Bold Silhouettes and Tailoring

Zendaya’s red carpet looks often feature strong, defined silhouettes. She loves to wear fashion-forward dresses with structured cuts or sleek tailoring that accentuate her figure. From dramatic ball gowns to figure-hugging numbers, Zendaya doesn’t shy away from bold fashion choices.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Focus on Fit: Instead of buying an expensive designer gown, consider purchasing a well-tailored, affordable dress and taking it to a seamstress for some custom tailoring. A dress that fits perfectly will elevate your entire look, making it look far more expensive than it actually is.
• Shop Fast Fashion with Tailoring Potential: Stores like Zara, H&M, and ASOS often carry pieces with strong cuts and structured silhouettes that resemble what Zendaya wears on the red carpet. Look for dresses that can be altered to fit your exact measurements.

Style Tip: Go for clean lines, cinched waists, and strategic tailoring to mimic Zendaya’s elegant yet powerful aesthetic.

2. Metallic and Statement Fabrics

Zendaya loves to experiment with statement fabrics like metallics, sequins, and velvet, giving her outfits a glamorous touch. She often chooses these fabrics to stand out on the red carpet, adding drama and shine to her overall look.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Affordable Metallics: Look for metallic dresses or tops from stores like Revolve, Forever 21, or Boohoo. These retailers often have budget-friendly pieces with the same striking, reflective qualities as high-end designers. Choose a bold metallic fabric for a dramatic red carpet effect.
• DIY Sparkle: If you’re into DIY fashion, try adding sequins, rhinestones, or beads to a simple dress or jumpsuit. This can be an inexpensive way to elevate your outfit and add some Zendaya-inspired glam.

Style Tip: When opting for metallics or shiny fabrics, keep the rest of your accessories simple to avoid overdoing the look. Let the fabric be the star of the show.

3. Minimalist Accessories with a Statement Edge

Zendaya often pairs her red carpet outfits with minimalist accessories, but the key is that each accessory feels intentional and refined. Whether it’s a simple clutch, subtle jewelry, or understated shoes, she knows how to make minimalism feel chic.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Look for Statement Jewelry: You don’t need to spend a fortune on diamonds to recreate Zendaya’s jewelry looks. Opt for statement pieces from stores like ASOS, Etsy, or even second-hand shops. Bold earrings, oversized rings, and chunky necklaces can mimic Zendaya’s high-fashion look without the designer price tag.
• Simple Shoes: Look for elegant heels or strappy sandals that have a modern and sleek design. You can often find these at affordable stores like Target, Nordstrom Rack, or DSW.
• Clutches and Bags: Instead of designer bags, shop for sleek, minimalist clutches from stores like Zara, Mango, or Topshop. Look for metallic or jewel-toned options to mimic Zendaya’s chic yet subtle approach to accessories.

Style Tip: Go for one statement piece, like a pair of bold earrings or a metallic clutch, and keep the rest of your accessories simple. This balance is key to creating a Zendaya-inspired look.

4. Play with Color and Bold Prints

Zendaya is no stranger to wearing bold colors and prints, whether it’s a striking yellow gown or a pattern-rich ensemble. She isn’t afraid of wearing vivid hues or eye-catching designs that make her stand out on the red carpet.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Affordable Color Choices: Many affordable brands offer dresses in bold colors like red, royal blue, emerald green, and yellow, all of which Zendaya has worn. Try shopping at stores like Shein, PrettyLittleThing, or H&M, where you can find a variety of colorful dresses at budget-friendly prices.
• Bold Prints: Look for floral, geometric, or animal print dresses that make a statement. Brands like Mango and Zara offer affordable printed dresses that can mimic Zendaya’s daring patterns.

Style Tip: If you choose a bold color or print, keep the rest of the outfit minimal. Avoid heavy accessories that could compete with the statement piece.

5. The Power of a Tailored Jumpsuit

Zendaya has rocked more than one powerful red carpet jumpsuit, often opting for sleek, modern pieces with clean lines. A jumpsuit is a fantastic alternative to a gown and can look just as high-fashion with the right styling.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Affordable Jumpsuits: Look for well-tailored jumpsuits at stores like Boohoo, Nasty Gal, or Nordstrom Rack. A tailored black jumpsuit or one with sleek lines and interesting details can channel Zendaya’s red carpet vibe.
• Layering and Styling: Pair your jumpsuit with a statement belt to cinch the waist or add a tailored blazer for a more elevated look. Simple accessories like a metallic clutch or strappy heels can complement the outfit.

Style Tip: Opt for a jumpsuit with a unique twist, such as a one-shoulder style, cut-out details, or a plunging neckline, to mimic Zendaya’s bold yet sophisticated jumpsuit looks.

6. Mastering Zendaya’s Hair and Makeup

Zendaya’s red carpet beauty looks are always on point, from her sleek, polished updos to her bold, statement-making makeup. Achieving Zendaya’s signature glam doesn’t have to be expensive, and you can recreate her looks with a little bit of practice and the right products.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Hair: Zendaya frequently rocks sleek buns, voluminous waves, or textured curls. You can recreate these looks with a little styling effort and some affordable hair products. Use a flat iron or curling wand to create waves, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
• Makeup: Zendaya’s makeup is often glowing and radiant, with defined brows, a bold lip, or a smoky eye. Opt for drugstore brands like Maybelline, L’Oréal, and NYX to recreate Zendaya’s flawless makeup looks at a fraction of the price.

Style Tip: Focus on one feature—either bold lips, dramatic eyes, or a flawless complexion—and let that take center stage. Zendaya often keeps her beauty looks balanced by emphasizing one area while keeping the rest subtle.

7. Confidence is Key

Zendaya’s red carpet looks are always enhanced by her incredible confidence. One of the best ways to get her red carpet look on a budget is to wear your outfit with pride and poise.

How to Achieve This Look on a Budget:

• Own Your Look: Confidence is the most important accessory when channeling Zendaya’s red carpet style. No matter what you’re wearing, if you wear it with confidence, you’ll look like a star.
• Smile and Stand Tall: Pay attention to your posture and facial expressions. Zendaya exudes confidence on the red carpet, and that’s a huge part of what makes her style so striking.

Final Thoughts

While Zendaya’s red carpet looks are often designed by some of the most renowned fashion houses in the world, you don’t need a celebrity budget to channel her style. With a mix of smart shopping, creative styling, and a dash of confidence, you can achieve a Zendaya-inspired look without breaking the bank.

By focusing on tailored silhouettes, bold fabrics, statement accessories, and a confident attitude, you can create a glamorous red carpet-worthy outfit that will turn heads—no matter the budget.