Stars like Kerry Washington, Megan Thee Stallion and Zendaya are known for their show-stopping looks, and they have one man to thank for helping them flex their fashion muscles: star stylist Law Roach. Known throughout the industry for always pushing the envelope, his talent and creativity are undeniable.
On October 1, the celebrity stylist known to fans as an “image architect” is out with his new book, “How to Build a Fashion Icon,” sharing the story of how his confidence and determination helped him reach the top of his game and become one of the most sought-after stylists in the game.
“Confidence is the belief in oneself and in one’s abilities. It comes from understanding that self-worth isn’t measured by achievements, failures, or the opinions of others. Confidence is not necessarily determined by the people around you — don’t wait for people to validate you. Building self-confidence can be a multistep process, but don’t let it discourage you,” he writes.
In honor of his new book, we’re looking back at Law Roach’s meteoric rise to fashion fame. This is the evolution of Law Roach.
From Student to Stylist
Stylist Law Roach grew up on Chicago’s South Side. Raised with his four siblings by a single mother, he initially went to Chicago State University to study psychology. But once there, he knew the universe had other plans for him in the fashion industry. He started out opening his own vintage shop in Chicago, Deliciously Vintage, in 2009 with partner Siobhan Strong.
Game-Changing Visit From a High-Profile Guest
Everything changed for Law Roach in 2009 when he got an unexpected visit from rapper/producer Kanye West who stopped by Deliciously Vintage to shop. West’s visit got the attention of paparazzi and thrust Roach into the spotlight.
Here Comes the Judge
Roach brought his sense of style and knowledge of the fashion industry to television as a judge on the reality competition show “America’s Next Top Model” for Seasons 23 and 24. He’s also appeared as a guest judge on Season 20 of “Project Runway.”
Industry Recognition
In 2022, Roach received the first Stylist Award from the CFDA for his innovative work in the industry. When asked to identify the secrets to his success, Roach said, “Work hard, believe in yourself, and treat others the way you want to be treated.” He cites his drive and determination for helping him reach the top of his game.
“I didn’t really have any mentors. I just basically said, “this is what I want to do and I’ll figure it out.” And I did,” he said.
Celine Dion
Singer Celine Dion is another of Roach’s high-profile clients. The pair have worked together since 2016 to create stunning red carpet moments.
She surprised everyone at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards when she appeared on stage at the ceremony to present the Album of the Year Award to Taylor Swift wearing Valentino Couture look, including a soft dress with a plunging neckline underneath a pumpkin-colored coat.
In a 2022 Instagram post, Roach dedicated a 2022 Instagram post to their long-time friendship, writing: “She changed my life….. I will forever be grateful! Love you.”
Naomi Campbell
Don’t call him a stylist! Law Roach prefers to be known as an “image architect,” using his clients as a canvas to create his unique vision for their style. He helped supermodel Naomi Campbell transform her look in 2024.
“My vision of Naomi is different from what other people’s vision of Naomi will be. And when you find someone who is a living supermodel canvas, you do take advantage,” he told British Vogue in a June 2024 interview.
Kerry Washington
“Scandal” star Kerry Washington is just one of the A-listers who has called on Roach to help her look her best. In a 2023 interview with E! News, the actress said her style has improved and become more a reflection of herself since working with Roach.
“I’m having fun. I’m enjoying life,” she said about their time together.
Zendaya
Law Roach first met actress Zendaya when she was just 14. At the time, designers wouldn’t lend clothes to the relatively unknown star, so Roach dressed her in looks from a vintage clothing store he ran in Chicago.
Since then, the two have created a style partnership made in heaven, with movie premiere and award show looks that leave everyone talking. Zendaya, who has become one of the hottest stars on the red carpet, calls Roach her “fashion soulmate, historian and constant inspiration.”
Zendaya
Roach and Zendaya kept us gagging at every stop on the press tour for her February 2024 film, “Dune: Part Two.” From gorgeous gowns to cute crop tops, the lewks just kept coming. But it was this archive Mugler robot suit for a stop at the London premiere of the film that took everyone out.
Megan Thee Stallion
One of the things that makes Law Roach a genius is his ability to bring out his client’s inner glam, something he’s done time and again for rapper Megan Thee Stallion. This picture taken at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in 2023 is a stunning example of how he found the perfect gown to show off her curves. “And just like that she’s back….. call her no waist Meg. ❤️❤️❤️ #fLAWless.” he captioned the post.
Lewis Hamilton
Roach doesn’t just style women, his celebrity client roster includes none other than Formula 1 racing champ Lewis Hamilton, who is just as well known for his style as his speed on the track.
In a 2021 conversation they had for Interview, the pair talked about seeing themselves as kindred spirits, both advocating for more diversity in their fields.
Retirement?
In March 2023, Roach shocked the fashion world when he announced his retirement. In an interview with Vogue, he said he made the decision to get out of the game in order to have more time to pursue other interests instead of “being in service and at service of other people.” But a post on his Instagram account only left fans with more questions.
“My Cup is empty….. thank you to everyone who’ve supported me and my career over the years. Every person that trusted me with their image, I’m so grateful for you all. 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,” he captioned his now-deleted Instagram post.
Luckily, Roach’s retirement didn’t last long as he continues to bless us with more great looks.
“How to Build a Fashion Icon”
On October 1, 2024, Roach released the story of his amazing journey in the book “How to Build a Fashion Icon: Notes on Confidence From the World’s Only Image Architect.” In this powerful memoir, Roach shares the story of his rise to fashion fame and his best advice for being your best and most confident self.
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