Zendaya Jaw-Dropping Dress Steals the Show at 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Ceremony! A Fashion Tribute That Left Fans Speechless
On October 19, 2024, the 39th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, became the stage for an unforgettable fashion moment. Zendaya, the multi-talented actress and style icon, turned heads in a stunning vintage Bob Mackie dress from 2001, channeling the sensual glamour of Cher’s iconic 1972 look.
This wasn’t just a red-carpet appearance; it was a heartfelt tribute to Cher, whom Zendaya inducted into the Hall of Fame. The sheer, crisscross design adorned with hand-applied bugle beads and gold-silver tassels left fans and fashion critics buzzing, with the event streaming live on Disney+ and later airing on ABC, drawing an impressive 1.2 million viewers according to Nielsen ratings.
The dress, part of Mackie’s “Foreign Intrigue” couture collection, featured a nude-illusion halter and a daring leg slit, perfectly echoing Cher’s bold aesthetic. Styled by Law Roach, Zendaya’s long-time collaborator, this archival piece underscored her mastery of “method dressing”—a trend where outfits align with the narrative of the event. The choice paid homage to Cher’s legacy as Mackie’s muse since her 1967 Carol Burnett Show appearance, blending past and present in a dazzling display of creativity.
The Cultural Impact of a Historic Night
The 2024 induction ceremony wasn’t just about music; it marked a cultural shift with its live streaming on Disney+, a first for the event, making it accessible to a global audience. Zendaya’s presence amplified this reach, as her tribute to Cher—both through her speech and wardrobe—resonated with fans worldwide.
The ceremony celebrated inductees who have shaped music over decades, and Zendaya’s involvement highlighted the intersection of entertainment and fashion. Social media erupted, showcasing her look, garnering thousands of likes and sparking debates about the dress’s audacity.
This event also reflected a broader trend in celebrity culture. According to the Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, archival dressing has surged in 2025, with vintage pieces like Zendaya’s Bob Mackie dress driving resale market values up by as much as 300%. This shift challenges the dominance of fast fashion, promoting sustainability and exclusivity. Stars like Ariana Grande and Anya Taylor-Joy have similarly embraced archival looks, but Zendaya’s choice stood out for its historical tie to Cher.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Fashion Statement
The Bob Mackie dress, meticulously curated by Roach, required weeks of preparation. Its hand-applied beads and intricate design demanded precision, reflecting the craftsmanship of early 2000s couture. Zendaya paired it with a flowing white cape, adding a modern twist to the vintage ensemble. This attention to detail didn’t go unnoticed—fashion analysts praised the outfit as a “museum-worthy exhibit,” aligning with the red carpet’s evolution into a showcase of rare archival pieces.
The ceremony itself featured live performances and moving tributes, but Zendaya’s red-carpet moment stole the spotlight. Her ability to merge her “Euphoria” edge with Cher’s timeless allure created a visual narrative that transcended the event, cementing her status as a fashion innovator. The X post’s images, though dated July 2025, reignited interest in the October 2024 event, proving the enduring impact of her style choices.
What This Means for Fashion and Fame
As of July 31, 2025, Zendaya’s look continues to inspire discussions on sustainability, exclusivity, and the power of vintage fashion. This moment at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame not only honored Cher but also set a new benchmark for celebrity influence. With the resale market thriving and fans eagerly awaiting her next move, Zendaya’s bold statement dress remains a topic of fascination—proof that fashion can be as revolutionary as the music it celebrates.
