Zendaya divides internet with archival Givenchy look at ‘The Odyssey’ Paris photo call

Zendaya's latest appearance on the The Odyssey press tour has sparked a wave of online debate after the actor stepped out in one of the most historically significant couture looks of the year. While many social media users mocked the dramatic outfit and compared it to everything from armour to a costume, fashion enthusiasts were quick to point out that the ensemble carries extraordinary importance in fashion history.

The actor attended the Paris photocall for The Odyssey on July 7 wearing a white couture gown from Alexander McQueen's Spring 1997 Givenchy collection. The design formed part of McQueen's debut haute couture collection for the French fashion house, titled The Search for the Golden Fleece. The collection drew inspiration from Greek mythology, particularly the story of Jason and the Argonauts, making the archival selection especially fitting for a film centred on Homer's epic tale.

Originally modelled on the runway by Debra Shaw nearly three decades ago, the structured white gown featured dramatic padded shoulders, elongated sleeves, a sharply sculpted silhouette and a high neckline. Zendaya completed the look with the original gold Philip Treacy headpiece, recreating one of the collection's most recognisable runway moments.

At the same time, fashion writers and industry insiders praised the decision to revive one of McQueen's earliest couture creations. Many noted that archival pieces from his Givenchy era are rarely worn publicly because of their historical value and limited availability. Bringing the nearly 30 year old design back to life was widely viewed as another example of Zendaya and longtime stylist Law Roach using fashion history to tell a story rather than simply showcase luxury labels.

The look also tied directly into Zendaya's role in The Odyssey. The actor portrays Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare, who plays a central role throughout Homer's ancient poem by guiding and protecting Odysseus during his long journey home. Vogue described Zendaya's styling as creating a modern interpretation of Athena, blending mythology with one of fashion's most celebrated archival collections.

The Paris appearance followed another headline making fashion moment only a day earlier, when Zendaya wore a custom Schiaparelli couture gown fresh from the house's latest runway presentation during the London premiere of The Odyssey. Together, the two appearances demonstrated contrasting approaches to couture, pairing a brand new creation with an iconic archival masterpiece.