The recent opening of the sci-fi movie “Dune” brought together for the first time two of fashion’s youngest icons — Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya. As a pandemic-postponed release that required plenty of patience from fans, the long-awaited film follows protagonist Paul Atreides, played by Chalamet, in his quest to protect the future of his family and people. Eventually, the plot introduces Chani, played by Zendaya, whom many hoped would have a larger role in the film. Regardless, at just 25 years old, the duo continues to stun audiences with their talents in the realms of both film and fashion.
Though a film press tour featuring Chalamet and Zendaya would invoke exhilarating anticipation at any time, the nature of “Dune”’s release this year certainly heightened this excitement, as fans longed for the pre-pandemic thrill of red carpet events. Along with postponing its original release, executives made the decision to spread out the release of “Dune” according to different countries, with release times spanning from its premiere in Italy on Sept. 3 to its final date in Australia on Nov. 2. Though initially frustrating for many, the location-based release times could be viewed in a positive light, as they certainly gave fans more opportunities to encounter red carpet looks from Chalamet and Zendaya.
The film’s premiere took place on Sept. 3 at the Venice Film Festival in Italy, and the cast’s looks were certainly some of the most memorable ones of the 11-day event. Chalamet set the scene with a two-piece matching look by designer Haider Ackermann, accessorizing his black beaded sweater and trousers with black sunglasses to complete the movie-star look. Complementing Chalamet, Zendaya astonished fans in a custom beige Balmain Haute Couture dress that draped over her in an almost liquifying way. In an exclusive interview with Womenswear Daily, Zendaya’s stylist Law Roach noted, “The color was reminiscent of the sand from sand dunes, so when we started this, we came to the conclusion that we wanted everything to feel like it could have been a costume in the movie.”
On Sept. 6, Zendaya rocked the Paris premiere of “Dune”, wearing a two-piece fitted maroon look by Alaïa, which consisted of a cropped long-sleeve top and fit-to-flare feather-bottomed skirt. Chalamet did not disappoint in the country of his heritage, as the French-American made bold statements in an electrifying, cobalt-blue Tom Ford tuxedo.
During their most recent red carpet event for the film, the duo shattered expectations with their glamorous looks at the London premiere of “Dune” on Oct. 18. Continuing to parallel her dress with the warrior elements in the film, Zendaya wore a structured Rick Owens cream-colored gown. With her look, Zendaya effectively channeled aspects of sci-fi modernity in balance with old-Hollywood elegance. Chalamet accompanied Zendaya in a jaw-dropping Alexander McQueen single-breasted black suit, embellished with silver zippered detailing. The look was fitting for Chalamet, who, like the creations of the House of Alexander McQueen, embodies the intersections between street style and high fashion.
In an overwhelming response to the film, fans can’t wait to see the duo again in the heavily anticipated sequel, which is scheduled to release on Oct. 20, 2023. Hopefully the next film will bring about just as many — if not more — red carpet appearances from these fashion icons.
The duo’s fashion achievements are certainly not limited to recent “Dune” press tour events. In 2020, GQ awarded Chalamet with the title of “Best Dressed Man in the World.” Additionally, the Council for Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) recently named Zendaya as the 2021 Fashion Icon, and they will crown her as the youngest-ever recipient of this award on Nov. 10. With their influence, both stars continue to impress and inspire their audiences, as they make strides in the film industry, all while challenging the boundaries of fashion and style.
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