At the 2018 Met Gala, the theme was “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” and Zendaya’s choice of attire was daring and unexpected. The former Disney Channel star wore a Versace dress inspired by Joan of Arc, a symbol of female strength and power. She paired the dress with a chic and slightly messy copper bob, and the entire look was a modern interpretation of medieval-armor fashion.

Advertisement

The star’s hairstylist Ursula Stephen explained to Marie Claire, “Zendaya’s look was inspired by the power of Joan of Arc and the opulence of Versace, who dressed her this evening. The gown references armor and chainmail, so we knew we needed a strong beauty look as well.” Pulling off Joan of Arc-inspired attire without looking like you’re part of a theater group isn’t easy, especially at an event as prestigious as the Met Gala. However, Zendaya managed to strike the perfect balance between high fashion and historical inspiration. However, a look like this didn’t come without consequences. “I was struggling,” Zendaya told Vogue. “I was like, ‘I need to sit down.’”