Stylist Law Roach talks Chicago, style vs. fashion, and Zendaya
- Law Roach, a Chicago native, rose to fame in the fashion industry through his unique 'method dressing' approach, earning the title of 'image architect' for his meticulous, archive-driven styling.
- His long-standing collaboration with Zendaya, where they tackled challenges together and consistently produced groundbreaking looks, played a significant role in cementing both their places in the fashion world.
- Roach not only reshaped celebrity styling but also broke barriers for Black stylists, earning prestigious recognition and inspiring a new generation through his resilience, creativity, and philosophy that personal style transcends fashion trends.
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The Unstoppable Law Roach: How a Chicago Native Became the Fashion Industry's Most Sought-After Stylist
Anyone with even a soupçon of knowledge about the fashion industry has probably heard Law Roach's name. The Chicago native has worked with celebrities such as Zendaya, Céline Dion, and Megan Thee Stallion, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion. His journey from the streets of South Side Chicago to the red carpets of Hollywood is nothing short of remarkable. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Law Roach, exploring his background, his approach to style, and his long-standing collaboration with the talented Zendaya.
Early Beginnings: Thrifting and Vintage Fashion
Law Roach's love for fashion began early. Growing up in South Side Chicago, he developed a penchant for thrifting during his teen years. This passion eventually led him to create his own vintage boutique, Deliciously Vintage, in Chicago and New York City. The store became a favorite among celebrities, including Kanye West, who visited the store to buy a gift for his then-girlfriend, Amber Rose.
The Birth of an Image Architect
Roach's journey into celebrity styling began in 2008 when he watched the reality series "The Rachel Zoe Project." He was inspired by Rachel Zoe's work with high-profile clients like Cameron Diaz and Lindsay Lohan, but he noticed that there were no Black stylists in the same league. This realization sparked something within him, and he dedicated himself to becoming the first Black stylist to achieve such heights.
Roach's distinctive approach to styling, which he calls "method dressing," involves scouring designers' archives for unique pieces and meticulously crafting each look. He has been described by Vogue writer André Wheeler as someone who excels at finding "insane pulls" from fashion archives. This methodical approach has earned him the nickname "image architect," a term he has trademarked to describe his process.
Collaborating with Zendaya: A Partnership Born in Creative Fire
Law Roach’s most enduring collaboration is with actress and singer Zendaya. The two met in Los Angeles when Zendaya was just starting her career. Despite facing numerous challenges, including designer brands hesitant to work with then-unknown talent, Roach saw potential in Zendaya and was determined to help her become a fashion icon.
Their first major collaboration was at the 2015 Met Gala, where Zendaya debuted in a Fausto Puglisi look styled by Roach. This moment cemented their status among fashion’s elite and marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership that would push boundaries and redefine fashion norms.
Roach’s approach to styling Zendaya was unique. He envisioned her as a “polyglot” who could speak any language fluently in the world of fashion. Each look was designed to reflect Zendaya’s personality and versatility, making her one of the most exciting figures on the red carpet.
Crafting Iconic Looks: From Sci-Fi to Chic
Roach’s creativity knows no bounds. For the Seoul premiere of "Dune: Part Two," he conceptualized a gray skirt designed by Alexander McQueen in 1999, featuring red accents that resembled a computer motherboard. The challenge was modifying the skirt since the red detail contained a liquid that glowed in the dark. Fortunately, the tailor Naf Tosh had previously worked with McQueen and knew exactly how to handle it.
This level of detail and dedication is what sets Roach apart. He has an "insane mental catalog" of everything he’s seen, which he maintains by browsing vintage store pages on Instagram late into the night. His ability to transform scraps into masterpieces is a testament to his skill and creativity.
Beyond the Runway: Impact and Legacy
Law Roach’s influence extends far beyond the fashion world. He has been a trailblazer for Black stylists, paving the way for others to follow in his footsteps. His success has also inspired a new generation of young designers and stylists to pursue their dreams.
In 2022, Roach earned a Council of Fashion Designers of America award, the first ever for a stylist. This accolade recognized his contributions to the industry and cemented his status as a leading figure in fashion.
Roach’s journey also highlights his resilience and determination. Growing up, he faced financial struggles, but he never let that hinder his passion for fashion. Instead, he channeled it into his career, teaching him invaluable lessons about survival and hustle that he applied to his career.
Style vs. Fashion: Roach’s Philosophy
For Law Roach, the distinction between style and fashion is crucial. While fashion is often about following trends and adhering to industry standards, style is about creating a personal narrative through clothing. Roach sees himself as an image architect rather than just a stylist; he constructs blueprints for his clients’ looks, ensuring that every detail contributes to a cohesive vision.
This approach is evident in how he works with his clients. Before each project, Roach surveys the land—examining every red carpet look the client has ever worn and tuning in to how those outfits made them feel. This meticulous research helps him craft looks that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Law Roach
Law Roach’s story is one of perseverance and creativity. From his humble beginnings in South Side Chicago to his current status as the most sought-after stylist in Hollywood, Roach has proven that with determination and passion, anything is possible.
His collaboration with Zendaya has been a defining part of his career, pushing both of them to new heights in the fashion world. As he continues to inspire and influence the next generation of stylists, Roach’s legacy will only continue to grow.
In the words of Roach himself, “The best way to think about it is that nos are to protect you from things that weren't supposed to be for you in the first place.” This philosophy encapsulates his journey—from the early days of thrifting to the current pinnacle of success—and serves as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of fashion.
References: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/09/23/law-roach-profile-stylist-zendaya https://time.com/7023090/law-roach-book-interview/ https://www.elle.com/culture/books/a62263898/law-roach-how-to-build-a-fashion-icon-book-interview-2024/
