Law Roach

SUMMARY

Celebrity stylist Law Roach is credited with Celine Dion’s triumphant fashion transformation and has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, including Zendaya, And Anya Taylor-Joy. Often referred to as an “image architect,” Roach has defined celebrity styling with his bold, narrative-driven looks that challenge conventional fashion norms. His journey from the  now-defunct Deliciously Vintage boutique in Chicago Pilsen to a world-renowned image architect is testimony to his dedication to authenticity, inclusivity, and empowerment.

BIOGRAPHY

Born on July 20, 1978, in Chicago, Illinois, Law Roach grew up in the South Side, where he developed an early passion for fashion. After completing a degree in psychology at Chicago State University, Roach opened a vintage clothing store named Deliciously Vintage in the Pilsen neighbourhood. His keen eye for unique pieces quickly garnered attention, laying the foundation for his future in styling.

Roach’s transition from boutique owner to stylist began when he moved to Los Angeles and started working with young actress Zendaya in 2011. Their collaboration marked a turning point, with Roach styling Zendaya in distinctive, often vintage-inspired ensembles that set her apart on red carpets. This partnership not only elevated Zendaya’s fashion profile but also established Roach as a sought-after stylist in Hollywood.

Beyond Zendaya, Roach has styled a diverse roster of celebrities, including Céline Dion, Kerry Washington, Bella Hadid, Megan Thee Stallion, and Tom Holland. His work with Dion, in particular, is notable for reinventing the singer’s image, transforming her into a fashion-forward icon with a penchant for avant-garde couture. Roach’s ability to blend personal narratives with fashion has made his styling synonymous with storytelling.

Roach’s influence extends into television, where he served as a judge on the reality competition series Legendary (2020–2022), which celebrated ballroom culture. He also appeared as a judge on America’s Next Top Model (2016–2018) and has been a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race and Project Runway. These platforms allowed Roach to showcase his expertise and further solidify his status in the fashion industry.

In March 2023, Roach announced his retirement from celebrity styling, with the exception of his star client ZendayA. The stylist shared a retirement note on Instagram in March 2023, writing, “If this business was just about the clothes I would do it for the rest of my life but unfortunately it’s not! The politics , the lies and false narratives finally got me! You win … I’m out.” In April 2025, Roach made a public return to styling at the Fashion Trust Awards in Los Angeles, debuting his new muse, actress and singer Ryan Destiny.

Roach’s influence has expanded into literature and education. In 2024, he released his first book, How to Build a Fashion Icon, offering insights into personal style and the fashion industry. Additionally, he launched “School of Style,” an online platform aimed at mentoring aspiring stylists and providing resources for those entering the fashion industry.

VISION

Law Roach views fashion as a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment. He believes that clothing should not only reflect personal style but also tell a story and convey confidence. This philosophy is evident in his work, where he often draws inspiration from historical figures and cultural icons to craft looks that resonate on a deeper level. A staunch advocate for diversity in the fashion industry, Roach has used his platform to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote inclusivity. He actively works to ensure that underrepresented voices, particularly Black creatives, have a presence in fashion, both on and off the runway. Recognising the importance of nurturing future talent, Roach is committed to mentoring aspiring stylists. Through initiatives like “School of Style,” he provides guidance and resources to help the next generation of fashion professionals succeed.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

In 2022, Roach received the inaugural Stylist Award at the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards presented by actress Kerry Washington.  Roach made history by becoming the first Black stylist to appear on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter‘s “Most Powerful Stylists” issue in 2017. He further strengthened his influence by topping the publication’s list of Hollywood’s Most Powerful Stylists in 2021. In 2021, Roach was honoured with the Gem Award for Jewelry Style, recognising his innovative approach to accessorising and his ability to elevate his clients’ looks with distinctive jewellery choices.

REFERENCES

• “Law Roach Names ‘Big Five’ Designers Who Refused to Dress Zendaya: “If You Say No, It’ll Be a No Forever””. The Hollywood Reporter.
• Project Runway: Christian Siriano to Serve as Mentor in Tim Gunn’s Absence — Who Else Is Returning?
• “Law Roach is part of the BoF 500”. The Business of Fashion. .
• “Image Architect Law Roach Styled a Whopping 10 Celebrities for the Met Gala”. 
• “Law Roach: the stylist who transformed Céline Dion and Zendaya”. The Guardian.
• “He found fashion fame with Zendaya. Now, stylist Law Roach makes a name for himself”. Los Angeles Times. 
• “How Céline Dion Became a Fashion Icon at 49”. Vanity Fair. 
• “10 Years of Zendaya and Law Roach Magic”. Women’s Wear Daily. 
• “Law Roach thrilled to watch Tom Holland’s style evolve”. Yahoo News. 
• “Law Roach’s Best Styling Moments: From Zendaya to Céline Dion”. People. 
• “He found fashion fame with Zendaya.His longest-running association, with the actress Zendaya, resulted in a clothing line with Tommy Hilfiger”. Los Angeles Times. 
• “Law Roach on Ariana Grande’s Singular Style Evolution”. Vogue. 
• “Law Roach is part of the BoF 500”. The Business of Fashion.
• “Stylist Law Roach to Receive 2021 Gem Award for Jewelry Style”. National Jeweler. 
• “Law Roach, This Year’s CFDA Stylist Honoree”. Vogue. 
• “Law Roach on Retirement, Rage and Why He Hasn’t Driven a Car in Nearly a Decade”. The Hollywood Reporter. 
• “Stylist Law Roach working on his health post-retirement”. ABC News.
• “Law Roach on Why He Retired from Celebrity Fashion Styling”. 
• “Law Roach’s Nephew, 3, Dies After Falling Out of a 17-Story Window in Chicago”. People.