Editor’s Pick: Law Roach on Vintage Fashion & Styling
One of the most dazzling image makers in Hollywood, Law Roach continuously pushes fashion boundaries with fantastically inspired outfits that exude fun, drama, and pure glamour. Known for crafting iconic red carpet moments for Zendaya, Céline Dion, Kerry Washington, and Anne Hathaway, Roach made history in 2017 as the first African American stylist to appear on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter's Stylist Issue.
"I've done pretty much everything that I set out to do as a stylist. So, my next step, I have to be able to help other people. I've struggled with the question, is it talent or is it opportunity? Why don't we see more black stylists working with A-list Hollywood actresses or being included in the conversation? That’s really important — to use my career as an example, to let people who don't include us in that conversation or in that narrative. I'm able to change that perception. I came from nothing. I came from South Side Chicago, very poor. I want to use my career as an example to show people to take a chance, and to give somebody a chance. Stop hiring people who look just like you, stop giving your internships and your assistant jobs to people who look just like you.”
Quick Fire Q&A with Law Roach
What was your very first fashion encounter?
Going to church with my grandmother. I was always in awe of her style.
What is your most memorable styling moment and why?
It’s difficult to choose just one… but I’ll say Celine Dion at the Billboard Awards. The moment she put on the Stephane Rolland gown, I knew it would be monumental.
Who is your ultimate vintage fashion muse?
Lola Falana.
What is your most treasured vintage find?
At the moment, that would be my Dior black pony hair Saddle Bag by John Galliano.
Is there a vintage piece you will never part with?
I would never part with ANY of my vintage pieces.
I have an affinity a love and a deep passion for the way things were. Vintage always seemed a bit more glamorous than contemporary clothes. The past weighs heavily on my decisions and my aesthetic."
I don't set out to make everybody happy with my work. I think fashion should be polarized, there should be as many people who hate it as there are people who love it. And if not, it's just boring...
