Naturally, everyone is talking about how Zendaya, styled by Law Roach, rocked a replica of Whitney Houston’s iconic 1987 flower dress at the 19th annual ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards yesterday.
By now, we all know that Zendaya—who stepped out, yet again, in bridal white—and Law Roach know a thing or two about referencing fashion history. This time, the duo nodded to both the iconic Sex and the City moment and Houston’s dazzling moment on the cover of Life Magazine.
Naturally, it’s making us reflect on the undeniable talent, beauty, style, and grace that was Miss Whitney Houston. Every woman’s muse. Sorely missed, but we are grateful for the gifts and inspiration she’s left us with—fashion included!
Looking back, every era of Whitney Houston’s career came with its own vibe and her style always matched the moment. In the beginning, she kept it simple and classic, with fresh-faced beauty, easy denim looks, and a smile that lit up every room. As her voice took over the world, her fashion followed suit. She didn’t just wear clothes, she wore confidence, grace, and a little bit of sparkle wherever she went.
From glitzy stage dresses that shimmered under the lights to sharp, tailored suits that gave elegance without trying too hard, Whitney knew how to make a look feel powerful. She could do over-the-top glamour one night and effortless cool the next. Her style wasn’t about chasing trends. It was about showing up exactly as she was, and letting the clothes tell the story.
In the ’80s, she gave us bouncy curls, bold colors, and shoulder pads for days. A perfect match for her bubbly, unstoppable energy. Think varsity jackets, high-waisted jeans, and outfits that felt equal parts pop star and best friend. You saw her and thought, “She gets it.” Then, just like that, she leveled up.
By the ’90s and early 2000s, Whitney was fully in her icon era. She was draped in fur, dripping in rhinestones, and stepping out in custom gowns that turned red carpets into runways. Even on casual days, she made sweats and sunglasses look like a statement. Whitney’s style wasn’t always loud, but it was always sure of itself. Decades later, she’s still the blueprint for what it looks like when talent, beauty, and style all show up in one woman.
Below, take a look at Whitney Houston’s style evolution.
The 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event will be available to stream on ESSENCE’s YouTube starting Saturday, March 14: Watch Here.
