Red Carpet Ready: Steal Zendaya’s Edgy Backless Look for Your Next Gala

Let’s be real. When we are looking for formal wear inspo, we aren't looking at random mannequins in a department store. We are looking at our feeds. We are looking at the red carpet. And right now, there is one person who completely owns it every single time she steps out of her ride: Zendaya.

She is the ultimate modern fashion icon. She knows exactly how to serve viral celebrity fashion looks that people obsess over for months. While she can totally rock a massive ballgown or a snatched suit, there is one specific silhouette that has become her ultimate secret weapon. It is the edgy, backless evening gown.

You have seen the paparazzi shots. From the front, the dress looks sleek, covered up, and highly sophisticated. But when she turns around for the cameras? Boom. It is completely open, dramatic, and highkey unexpected.

If you have a massive event coming up and you want to bring that exact same main character energy to the room, the backless gown is the way to go. Here is your complete guide to stealing Zendaya’s iconic look, mastering Hollywood glam formal dresses, and being the absolute best-dressed person at your next gala.

How to Pull It Off: The Undergarment Secret

Okay, let’s spill the tea on the elephant in the room. The number one reason girls avoid backless dresses is that they literally have no idea what to do about a bra. We are so used to standard undergarments that an open back feels a little terrifying. But do not stress, the fashion industry has totally solved this problem.

For Smaller Busts: If you do not need a ton of lift, silicone nipple covers (pasties) are your best friend. They give you a flawless finish under thin fabrics without any sticky bands ruining the look.

For Larger Busts: Look into body tape (aka boob tape). This is a strong, skin-safe athletic tape that you can cut and apply to lift and snatch your chest exactly how you want it, completely hiding the tape under the front of the dress. It takes a little practice, but it is an absolute game-changer for celebrity style formal wear.

The Dress Outlet Hack: A ton of the high-quality dresses we carry, especially from designers like Nox Anabel, come with crazy supportive, built-in padded cups. The dress literally does the lifting for you!

Steal the Look at The Dress Outlet

You might look at viral celebrity fashion looks and think you need to drop $10,000 on a custom designer gown to look that fire. That is simply not true. At The Dress Outlet, we believe you can get that exact same jaw-dropping red-carpet energy on a realistic budget.

We have stocked our 2026 collection with the most insane backless gowns on the market. If you want that sleek, minimalist Zendaya look, check out our smooth, heavy satin gowns that drape perfectly over the body. If you want something a bit more extra, we have gorgeous backless dresses fully drenched in liquid sequins or rich velvet.

We carry amazing brands that actually understand how to cut a backless dress so it stays secure and showcases your natural curves. Whether you need a sleek black gown for a winter gala or a bright, bold jewel-toned dress for a bougie formal wedding, we have hundreds of options.

We also know that confidence comes from a flawless fit, which is why our collections are available in inclusive sizing. You can easily score these high-fashion, red-carpet-ready looks for well under $200.

This year, don't just blend in with the crowd. Channel your inner fashion icon, show a little skin in the most elevated way possible, and get ready to break necks the second you walk away.