On September 1, 2025, Rachel Zegler turned heads in London with a bold and sophisticated fashion statement that solidified her status as a style icon. The 24-year-old actress, celebrated for her roles in West Side Story and Disney’s live-action Snow White, attended a record-signing event at Rough Trade in Notting Hill, where she captivated fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. Dressed in a daring, braless power suit, Zegler redefined red-carpet fashion with a look that was both commanding and elegant, sparking widespread conversation across social media and fashion circles.
The event, held to promote the vinyl release of Don’t Cry for Me Argentina from her critically acclaimed performance as Eva Perón in the West End revival of Evita, was more than just a promotional appearance—it was a moment of sartorial brilliance. Zegler’s choice of attire, a tailored ensemble from designer Alex Perry, embodied a perfect balance of strength and sensuality, aligning with the evolving trends of gender-neutral and minimalist fashion. Her appearance not only highlighted her growing influence in the entertainment industry but also underscored her ability to push boundaries with confidence and grace.
A Bold Fashion Choice
Zegler’s outfit was a masterclass in modern power dressing. The centerpiece was a double-breasted blazer in a muted ash-grey tone, featuring sharp shoulders and a structured silhouette that exuded authority. The blazer’s plunging neckline added a daring twist, as Zegler opted to forgo a blouse or bra, making the suit itself the focal point of the ensemble. Paired with high-waisted, tailored trousers that accentuated her sleek frame, the look was both polished and provocative. The absence of traditional undergarments was a deliberate choice, reflecting a growing trend among celebrities who use minimal layering to maximize the impact of tailored pieces.
The suit, designed by Alex Perry, was a testament to the designer’s signature aesthetic—clean lines, bold cuts, and a nod to classic tailoring with a contemporary edge. The ash-grey hue, neither too dark nor too light, provided a versatile canvas that allowed Zegler’s confidence to shine through. Black pointed-toe heels from Jimmy Choo added a sleek, elongating effect, while a $1,316 Jimmy Choo Diamond Crossbody Bag with gold embellishments brought a touch of glamour to the otherwise understated look. Zegler kept accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver rings and earrings from designers Jessica McCormack and Lucy Quartermaine, ensuring the suit remained the star of the show.
Her makeup was equally restrained, with a no-makeup look that emphasized her natural beauty. Her dark hair, parted to the side and left loose, framed her face effortlessly, completing the ensemble with a sense of ease and sophistication. The overall effect was one of poised rebellion—a look that challenged conventional red-carpet expectations while maintaining an air of elegance.
A Statement in Modern Fashion
Zegler’s braless power suit is part of a broader movement in fashion where celebrities are redefining traditional dress codes. The trend, which has gained momentum on runways and red carpets alike, sees stars embracing gender-neutral and tailored looks that prioritize individuality over conformity. By choosing to go shirtless under her blazer, Zegler tapped into a style that has historical roots in the 1970s, when designers began experimenting with androgynous silhouettes, and was later reimagined in the 1990s by photographers like Helmut Newton and designers like Saint Laurent. In 2025, Zegler’s interpretation feels both timeless and forward-thinking, blending masculine authority with feminine allure.
Fashion observers have noted that Zegler’s look strikes a delicate balance between strength and elegance, making it suitable for both formal and modern occasions. The oversized blazer, with its sharp tailoring and black button details, served as a form of armor, while the plunging neckline and lack of a blouse added a layer of vulnerability and confidence. This juxtaposition is what made the outfit so compelling—it was a statement of empowerment, signaling that Zegler is unafraid to take risks and redefine what it means to dress powerfully.
The look also aligns with a growing trend among young Hollywood stars who are using fashion to challenge societal norms. Celebrities like Zendaya, Harry Styles, and Timothée Chalamet have similarly embraced gender-fluid and minimalist styles, pushing the boundaries of what constitutes red-carpet attire. Zegler’s ensemble, however, stands out for its theatricality—a nod, perhaps, to her role as Eva Perón, a figure known for her commanding presence and bold persona. By bringing this energy to a record-signing event, Zegler transformed a routine appearance into a cultural moment.
The Context of the Event
The record-signing event at Rough Trade was a celebration of Zegler’s star turn in Evita, directed by Jamie Lloyd at the London Palladium. Since April 2025, Zegler has been living in London, immersing herself in the role of Eva Perón, a performance that has earned her widespread praise. Critics have lauded her ability to capture the complexity of the historical figure, with Variety describing her performance as delivering “goosebumps.” The vinyl release of Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, a signature song from the musical, marked a milestone in her West End debut, and the signing event drew a crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to meet the rising star.
Zegler’s appearance at the event was not just a promotional stop but a continuation of her ability to merge her on-stage charisma with her off-stage persona. Her choice of attire reflected the same boldness and authenticity that she brings to her performances, creating a seamless connection between her art and her public image. Fans took to social media to express their admiration, with one post on X stating, “Rachel Zegler today in London 😍 #fashionicon,” accompanied by a photo of her in the striking suit.
A Rising Star in Fashion and Theatre
Zegler’s fashion choices have consistently made headlines, from her vibrant Swarovski event look in New York City to her method-dressing for Snow White promotions, where she incorporated subtle nods to the Disney princess with accessories like a golden apple clutch. Her collaboration with stylist Sarah Slutsky Tooley has been instrumental in crafting these memorable moments, blending high fashion with personal storytelling. The London record-signing look, however, stands out as one of her most daring yet, cementing her as a trendsetter who is unafraid to take risks.
Beyond her fashion influence, Zegler’s career continues to soar. Her role in Evita has solidified her as a powerhouse in musical theatre, following her breakout performance in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and her starring role in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. She has also been busy off-stage, recently announcing her first solo concert at the London Palladium, which sold out twice in one afternoon. Her ability to juggle a demanding theatre schedule with high-profile public appearances speaks to her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Personal Life in the Spotlight
Adding to the buzz around Zegler’s London appearance was her personal life, which has also garnered attention. She has been spotted around the city with her new boyfriend, Nathan Louis-Fernand, a backing dancer she met during Evita rehearsals. The couple’s chemistry was evident during a recent dog walk in Primrose Hill, where Zegler was photographed beaming alongside Louis-Fernand. Their relationship, which she playfully referred to on Instagram as involving “the darling man,” has added a layer of relatability to her public persona, endearing her to fans who appreciate her authenticity.
The Impact of Zegler’s Style Moment
Zegler’s braless power suit is more than just a fashion choice—it’s a reflection of her ability to command attention and challenge expectations. In an era where celebrity style is often meticulously curated for social media, her look felt raw and intentional, a reminder that true style is about confidence and individuality. The ensemble has already inspired discussions among fashion enthusiasts, with some suggesting affordable alternatives from brands like The Frankie Shop and Zara for those looking to recreate the look.
As Zegler continues to navigate her rising stardom, her ability to blend bold fashion with powerful performances ensures she remains a figure to watch. Her London appearance was a testament to her growing influence, not just as an actress and singer but as a cultural force who is redefining what it means to be a modern icon. Whether on the stage or the red carpet, Rachel Zegler is proving that she is here to stay, one daring look at a time.
