Zendaya has spent the Spider-Man: Brand New Day press tour serving one on-theme fashion moment after another, but her beauty look at the film’s Rome premiere feels like a nod to a completely different often-animated fictional character: Betty Boop.
The hairstyle is what immediately sells the similarity between this look and the famous Jazz Age cartoon flapper. Shaped in impeccably molded finger waves, Zendaya’s bixie hugs her head with soft curves and swoops that frame her face from every angle. The deep side part and polished finish evoke the glamorous flapper-inspired styles that defined early Hollywood beauty—and Betty Boop’s flippy, short style. It’s giving vintage without feeling costume-y.
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And that’s partly because of her makeup, which strikes a balance between retro and contemporary. Her long, fluttery lashes feel very retro and doll-like, while her softly defined eyes, luminous skin, and a satin nude lip are very 2026. And her liquid-leather manicure is decidedly more today than a century ago, but she’s Zendaya, so of course it all works together.
While her dress may not look exactly like something Betty Boop would wear, it definitely deserves praise for its flapper vibes. It is, in fact, vintage, though not quite as old as the silhouette may suggest; it’s actually an Armani design from 1990. And yes, it’s on theme for the movie with its intricate spiderweb beading.
Photo: Getty Images