As much as we love it when Zendaya pulls out all the stops for a major red carpet moment, the instances when she wears something completely classic and timeless are just as inspiring. The actress — who is currently in Rome doing press for her new film The Drama alongside Robert Pattinson — recently debuted a masterclass in perennial dressing.
There is a reason certain pieces of clothing are considered foundational. While the fashion cycle spins through micro-trends at an exhausting pace, true style often lies in the quiet confidence of a perfectly executed classic. Zendaya, a woman who knows exactly how to deliver a high-drama red carpet moment, just reminded us of this fact while off-duty in Rome.
While she was in the Italian capital for the press tour of her upcoming film The Drama, the actress was photographed at the Piazza del Campidoglio in a look that felt entirely perennial. Wearing a beautifully tailored black suit by Milanese label Francesco Murano, she paired the sharp tailoring with a crisp, sculptural white shirt. But it was her choice of footwear that truly anchored the outfit: a pair of razor-sharp, 100mm Christian Louboutin So Kate stilettos.
Over the past few seasons, the default styling for a relaxed black trouser has shifted heavily toward the casual. We have seen them pooled over chunky sneakers, paired with delicate ballet flats, and grounded by minimalist sandals. It is a look that feels very “now.” But Zendaya’s decision to bypass the casual footwear entirely in favour of a classic, sky-high pump was a masterclass in elevated dressing.
The stiletto does something that a flat simply cannot do. It changes the posture, elongates the leg, and brings an undeniable sense of power to a tailored suit. It is not about following a trend — it is about understanding proportion and the enduring appeal of a sharp silhouette.
While navigating cobblestones in 100mm heels might not be on everyone’s daily agenda, the essence of Zendaya’s Rome look is incredibly easy to translate into your own wardrobe. It relies on three non-negotiable elements: a blazer with a slightly relaxed fit, a trouser that falls cleanly to the floor, and a pointed-toe pump that means business.
Here is exactly how to build the look for yourself.

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The Foundation — Black Tailored Trousers

VERONICA BEARD

Tonelli Wide-Leg Pant

A$895

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KHAITE

Borden Pant

A$1,570

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ANINE BING

Trent Trouser

A$400

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CAMILLA AND MARC

Floret Tailored Pant

A$550

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EVERLANE

The Organic Wide-Leg Pant

A$45

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FAVORITE DAUGHTER

The Favorite Pant

A$218

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ODD MUSE

Wide Leg Trousers

A$186

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The Contrast — Sculptural White Shirts

ANINE BING

Essie Shirt

A$250

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WHITE AND WARREN

Superfine Merino Wool Shirt

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ROHE

Shaped Tuxedo Silk Shirt in Cream

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ANNA QUAN

Brooklyn Shirt

A$360

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The Structure — Black Tailored Blazers

CAMILLA AND MARC

Mackinley Blazer

A$750

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EVERLANE

The Oversized Blazer in Buttersmooth

A$390

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SHONA JOY

Irena Hourglass Single Breasted Blazer

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SNDYS

Ryan Blazer

A$149

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The Footwear — Pointed-Toe Stiletto Heels

TONY BIANCO

Anja Black Patent

A$199.95

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ALOHAS

Joelle Black Patent Leather Pumps

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FERRAGAMO

Maily 95 Stiletto Pump

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