Zendaya on the red carpet wearing a white Jacquemus dress and 3,000-year-old gold medallion earrings.
Red Carpet Controversy
Zendaya’s latest red carpet look has ignited a fierce debate over the ethical use of historical artifacts in modern fashion.
While promoting Christopher Nolan’s Hollywood adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey at a London photo call, the 29-year-old actress wore a pair of 3,000-year-old earrings. Styled by Law Roach, Zendaya paired the ancient jewelry with a white, backless Jacquemus dress featuring draped detailing.
The Iranian 18-karat yellow gold medallion discs date back to the first millennium B.C. According to CNN, the pieces are linked to the Ziwiye hoard and were originally unearthed nearly a century ago in the 1940s. The high-profile appearance comes shortly after the actress officially wrapped production on Euphoria.
Archeologists and Fans Push Back
The decision to wear millennia-old jewelry quickly drew intense criticism from historians and the public.
Critics flooded social media, arguing that historical artifacts belong behind glass, not on celebrities. “As an archeology student. I HATE THIS. They should be in a museum,” one user wrote.
Others raised serious concerns over cultural ownership and the origins of the pieces. An Iranian commentator noted the medallions should remain under the protection of their home country, stating, “Love Zendaya, but wearing artifacts that were likely looted is not a good look.”
Representatives for Zendaya have not responded to requests for comment.
The Jeweler’s Defense
London-based jeweler Glenn Spiro designed the earrings by bordering the ancient discs with modern diamonds. The controversial pieces were later acquired by Barron London.
The company aggressively pushed back against the backlash, explaining that the artifacts are secured in a “simple, noninvasive claw setting” that prevents any alteration or damage to the original gold objects.
The jeweler also framed the design as a cultural tribute. “At a time when Iran is frequently viewed through the lens of contemporary events, we hope these earrings can serve as a reminder of the country’s enduring artistic, cultural, and historical legacy,” the brand told CNN.
A History of Risky Fashion
The artifact dispute heavily mirrors the controversy surrounding Kim Kardashian at the 2022 Met Gala. Kardashian famously wore Marilyn Monroe’s 1962 “Happy Birthday” dress, sparking immediate outrage from textile preservationists.
Kardashian later admitted the severe limitations required to protect the delicate garment. “I can’t sit in a car, I can’t risk it. It’s so fragile, you guys,” she said at the time.
She ultimately wore the original dress for only a few minutes before changing into a replica, noting the extreme risk of body oils damaging the fabric.
Expanding the Cinematic Universe
Despite the jewelry backlash, Zendaya has received widespread praise for her futuristic and thematic fashion choices throughout the press tour.
She stars as the goddess Athena in The Odyssey, which hits theaters on July 17. Early reactions have already dubbed Nolan’s ambitious epic a “god-tier” masterpiece.
Zendaya shares the screen with Tom Holland, who portrays Telemachus. The real-life couple will reunite on screen shortly after, starring together in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, scheduled for a July 30 release.
