Fashion is more than just fabric stitched together—it’s a statement, a cultural bridge between the past and the present. Few moments captured this better than Zendaya’s appearance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, where she revived Cher’s legendary 1970s cut-out dress.
This daring, shimmering, cut-out masterpiece, first made famous by Cher at the 1974 Academy Awards, has long been etched into fashion history. Known for its bold silhouette and unapologetic allure, the dress symbolized Cher’s fearless approach to style. But Zendaya, with her modern elegance and undeniable presence, breathed new life into this iconic piece, sparking an electrifying debate in the fashion world:
Who wore it better—Cher or Zendaya?

Cher: The Original Fashion Trailblazer
In the 1970s, Cher was more than a music and television icon—she was a fashion revolutionary. With the help of legendary designer Bob Mackie, she redefined red-carpet fashion with looks that were bold, theatrical, and often ahead of their time.
Her 1974 Academy Awards dress was no exception. The dramatic cut-outs, sheer fabric, and daring silhouette stunned the world at a time when such bold choices were rare. Cher wasn’t just wearing a dress—she was making a statement.
- She challenged traditional beauty standards, proving that confidence was the ultimate accessory.
- She influenced generations of designers and artists, showing that fashion could be a form of rebellion.
- She embraced individuality, solidifying herself as a style icon who never played by the rules.
Cher’s ability to turn heads and spark conversation was unmatched. She made that dress legendary—not just because of its design, but because of the attitude and charisma she brought to it.
Video: Who wore it better—Cher or Zendaya?
Zendaya: The Modern Fashion Powerhouse
Fast forward to 2024, and Zendaya has become one of the most talked-about fashion figures of her generation. Whether she’s gracing the Met Gala, a movie premiere, or an awards ceremony, she consistently pushes boundaries, embraces risk, and redefines modern glamour.
When she stepped onto the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony red carpet in Cher’s iconic dress, she wasn’t just reviving an old look—she was making it fresh, relevant, and uniquely her own.
- Her take was slightly modernized, with a refined silhouette and updated styling, proving that classic designs can evolve.
- She brought effortless confidence, wearing the dress as if it had been made just for her.
- She honored Cher’s legacy while still staying true to her own aesthetic, bridging the past with the present.
Zendaya’s fashion choices consistently celebrate history while embracing the future, and this look was no exception.
Who Wore It Better? The Ultimate Fashion Debate

Let’s be honest—comparing Cher and Zendaya is like comparing two different eras of cultural influence. They both dominate their respective generations, using fashion as a tool of empowerment and self-expression.
Instead of asking who wore it better, the real question should be:
What does this dress represent in both eras?

For Cher, the dress symbolized rebellion, breaking societal norms, and setting a new standard for red-carpet fashion. It was a declaration that women could wear whatever they wanted—without apology.
For Zendaya, the dress serves as a testament to how fashion’s impact can transcend decades. It’s a nod to the icons who paved the way while proving that style can be reimagined without losing its original magic.
Both women own the moment in their own unique ways.
The Power of Fashion: More Than Just Clothes
Video: Zendaya Stuns in a Timeless Masterpiece
This moment is a reminder that fashion is more than just fabric and trends—it’s a powerful language of self-expression.
- It connects generations, proving that style is timeless.
- It tells a story, reflecting personal identity, confidence, and cultural influence.
- It celebrates individuality, showing that true style isn’t about copying—it’s about owning the look in your own way.
Zendaya and Cher, decades apart, prove that fashion isn’t just about wearing clothes—it’s about wearing confidence, history, and self-expression.
Final Thoughts: A Fashion Legacy That Lives On

Instead of debating who wore it better, let’s appreciate how each woman brought something unique to the dress. Cher made it legendary; Zendaya revived it with fresh energy. Together, they prove that some fashion moments are so iconic, they never fade—they just evolve.