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Zendaya Honours Donyale Luna in Essence November 2020 Issue

Zendaya Pays Tribute to Iconic Black Supermodel Donyale Luna in Stunning Essence Cover

Wearing a sexy knit gown by GiGi Hunter.
Image Source: Essence / AB+DM

Zendaya knows how to own a cover, and her latest for Essence's November/December issue celebrating the magazine's 50th anniversary is equal parts sexy, glam, and totally classic. Inspired by Donyale Luna, known to many as the world's first Black supermodel, the Euphoria star paid homage to the '60s icon and re-created her most groundbreaking photos. In one standout look, Zendaya wore an incredible barely-there long sleeve knit dress that was simply made for the actress.

"A lot of what I do, specifically within fashion, is a tribute to fashion icons who came before me — many of whom are Black women."

It's no surprise Image Architect Law Roach had a hand in the styling and creative direction for the stunning shoot, as the duo has proven time and time again that they are the ultimate fashion dream team. The Emmy Award winner shared in the corresponding cover story that she was "very excited" to "do something a little bit different" with Law, and in fact, it was "one of [her] favourite cover shoots [she's] ever done." She continued, "A lot of what I do, specifically within fashion, is a tribute to fashion icons who came before me — many of whom are Black women. I love the way it turned out. I'm very proud of it."

Zendaya also explained that it's always been a priority for the two to support young Black designers and photographers in their work. "A lot of smaller brands and designers were the ones that supported me before I was being dressed by bigger brands," she said. "There's rarely a look, or anything that we do in fashion, that doesn't have a story. Everything is done with intention." This sentiment is reflected throughout the gorgeous black and white imagery of the shoot, where Zendaya is also seen wearing a mod metal shift dress and rocking spidery lashes reminiscent of the '60s. Take a closer look at the striking looks ahead, and check out Zendaya's full interview on Essence.

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