Zendaya: The Ultimate Gen Z Queen Lookbook

There’s no way anybody could dislike Zendaya, the multi-talented child prodigy. Although her career is mainly focused on acting, Zendaya is a triple threat indeed - excelling in modelling and singing as well. As her birthday fast approaches, I decided to dedicate to this Gen Z superstar our weekly celebrity lookbook to inspire you and celebrate her most gorgeous looks.

1. The Curly Shag

This is by far one of the most famous Zendaya hairstyles, as it’s been her signature look for quite a long time. The hair shag originates far before Zendaya was even born, however, it’s easy to say that she made it popular again for her generation. Zendaya’s hair is naturally curly, and the shag with its layers and wild bangs makes her corkscrew curls come to life. 10 out of 10!

2. The Copper Bob

Short hair has been disregarded for quite a long time during the early 00s, but throughout 2020 and 2021 (perhaps lockdown DIY fails contributed to the phenomenon?) We've seen a rise in popularity for bobs and lobs altogether. Zendaya picked a super-short textured bob, paired with choppy baby bangs. The colour choice was ahead of its time, however, copper shades are now particularly trendy.

3. The Sleek Middle Part

Nothing screams “baddie” like a sleek hairstyle parted in the middle. Zendaya’s stylists know this very well, and made sure she was channelling her powerful energy whilst having her covergirl moment. If your hair is not long and thick enough to achieve this hairstyle, you can always implement Remy hair extensions. Need to stock up? Get your clip-in hair extensions here.

4. The Retro Blowout

We’ve seen this look on countless influencers and tiktokers, and before that probably only on vintage photos and artsy music videos. Life imitates art, and as fashion and trends seem to repeat themselves in colourful cycles, the big bouncy blowouts of the 70s, 80s, and 90s are now back, stronger than ever. Other celebrities, such as Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyonce have rocked this look. To turn the volume up (quite literally), add a full-head of ultra-volume hair extensions to your hair for a bombshell effect.

5. The Heartthrob Haircut

If you’re a millennial like me, you’ll surely remember all the 90s and Y2K cheesy boy-bands that were coming and going throughout the years. Some of them are unforgettable and iconic (think of N-SYNC, Backstreet Boys, and Blue) whilst some others ended up disappearing from the scene. This haircut is inspired by those boy-bands' members, with their cheeky frosted tips and soft bangs. 

6. The Low Ponytail

Made famous by business mogul and TV personality Kim Kardashian, the sleek low ponytail is a classy, polished look. It’s a minimalistic, lowkey take on the sleek high ponytail, its fierce cousin. Often paired with a bejewelled hair-tie or a scrunchie, this hairstyle is the gift that keeps on giving. You can recreate this look by using a wrap-around clip-in ponytail.

7. The Hollywood Waves

This hairstyle has been seen on countless red carpets and fashion events. Do you think a superstar like Zendaya could miss out on this glamorous hairdo? Absolutely not. Hollywood waves have your hair crimped in glossy, soft waves. It’s a beautiful, timeless classic that has been trending in Hollywood and the celebrity showbiz for a long time - hence the name! Add human hair extensions to this look for a fuller, thicker finish.

8. The Blunt Bangs

Do you remember Zendaya in the "Versace On The Floor" music video? Because I sure do. There’s something incredibly intriguing in blunt bangs that brush on your eyes, with long, sleek tresses falling over your shoulders. This Cleopatra-like hairstyle has been worn by a lot of celebrities over time, and some actors have made this their signature style (think of Hannah Simone)! If you’re not ready to commit to a haircut, you can always use a clip-in fringe to switch things up whenever you feel like it.

9. The Messy Bun

Artsy, chic and seemingly effortless: these are only a few of the words that can be used to describe the gorgeous messy bun. Over the years, the popularity of this hairstyle has significantly increased - making it skyrocket the charts from “alternative Tumblr girl hairstyle” to a chic, popular option on and off carpet for celebrities and mere mortals alike. This was also the go-to hairstyle for Hailey Bieber on her big day.

10. The Soft Waves

This seems to be a softer, more glamorous take on the mermaid waves - a hairstyle that is characterised by crimpier, smaller waves for a beachy look. These soft waves instead give a glossy, classy finish. Perfect as an alternative to Hollywood waves, for a more youthful, playful effect. Don’t forget to apply some hair shine spray on your tresses when you’re done styling, to get the perfect glossy, glassy look. You can buy your hair shine spray here.

11. Conclusion:

With Dune: Part Two and Challengers coming on the big screen in 2023, I’m sure we’ll be delighted with new flawless performances. In the meantime, let’s wish Zendaya a successful, happy 26th birthday.