TommyXZendaya Fall 2019: A Bold Celebration of Diversity, Inclusion, and American Style at the Apollo Theater

The Fall 2019 Tommy Hilfiger and Zendaya collaborative collection, unveiled with an electrifying show at Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater, transcended the typical fashion presentation. Far more than just a showcase of stunning apparel, the “TommyXZendaya” collection made a profound statement about the true essence of America – a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of all its people. This groundbreaking partnership delivered a joyful celebration of diversity and inclusion, presented through an irresistible lens of 1970s-inspired glamour, offering a thrilling counterpoint to the prevailing divisiveness of the era.

For decades, Tommy Hilfiger has built his iconic brand around the celebration of classic American ideals and aesthetics. His vision has consistently centered on the aspirational spirit of the nation, making him a fitting figure to spearhead a movement towards unity through fashion. In collaborating with the immensely talented 23-year-old artist and activist, Zendaya, Hilfiger found a partner who not only shared this vision but amplified it with her contemporary relevance and empowering voice. Together, they forged a collection that was not merely clothing, but a powerful cultural dialogue, meticulously designed to resonate deeply with a broad, diverse audience.

The synergy between Hilfiger’s established American classicism and Zendaya’s fresh, inclusive perspective was palpable throughout the entire “TommyXZendaya” collection. The design duo successfully created modern, empowering clothing that looked absolutely fabulous on women of every conceivable size, shape, age, and ethnicity. This commitment to genuine inclusivity was vividly brought to life on the runway. The models, each radiating with big, bright smiles, represented a truly diverse spectrum, spanning generations from vibrant teens to ageless icons. Every single model looked equally beautiful and confident, embodying the collection’s core message of universal appeal and effortless style.

The garments themselves were a masterful homage to the sophisticated and free-spirited fashion of the 1970s, reimagined for the contemporary woman. Fitted velvet blazers, tailored to perfection, were paired with elegantly flared trousers, creating elongated silhouettes that exuded confidence. High-slit gauzy skirts and dresses flowed gracefully, offering both allure and freedom of movement. Slinky front-slit jumpsuits provided a modern, chic alternative for evening wear, blending comfort with undeniable sex appeal. The collection also featured striking accessories, including sexy black leather and snakeskin boots that added an edgy touch, alongside classic herringbone coats that brought a touch of timeless elegance. Playful elements like polka dot bowtie blouses, dramatic neckties, and shimmering silver lamé evening dresses and blouses completed the eclectic yet cohesive aesthetic, ensuring there was a piece for every occasion and every personality.

The choice of Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater as the venue for this spectacular show was a stroke of pure genius, a decision attributed to Zendaya’s insightful vision. The Apollo, an emblem of African American artistic excellence and a crucible of American popular culture, served as the quintessential backdrop for a collection so deeply rooted in celebrating diverse contributions. For decades, the Apollo has been a stage where countless groundbreaking artists have honed their craft and left an indelible mark on music, comedy, and performance art. It is a place that intrinsically honors the vibrant contributions of Americans from all backgrounds to art, culture, music, language, and, unequivocally, style – contributions that, historically, have often been underrepresented or insufficiently acknowledged by the country’s dominant narratives and power elite. Staging the show here was not just a logistical decision; it was a profound act of reverence and recognition.

Further underscoring the show’s powerful message was the pivotal role of music, specifically Aretha Franklin‘s timeless anthem, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T.” As the iconic song filled the theater, both the models on the runway and the audience in their seats erupted in dance, creating an atmosphere of shared joy and liberation. This infectious energy perfectly encapsulated the collection’s central theme: respect. It was a call for respect for the inherent strength, beauty, and individuality of women of all ages and walks of life. It celebrated respect for the fundamental American ideals of equality and inclusion for all citizens. And critically, it paid homage to the groundbreaking musical and style innovations pioneered by African Americans and other minority communities, innovations that have profoundly shaped global culture but often gone uncredited in mainstream fashion and historical discourse.

To fully immerse attendees in this celebratory narrative, Tommy Hilfiger and Zendaya meticulously recreated a full “Harlem” set within the Apollo. This elaborate stage design, complete with live singers, dynamic dancers, and exceptionally talented musicians, transformed the fashion show into a vibrant, multi-sensory spectacle. Every performer was styled head-to-toe in pieces from the new TommyXZendaya collection, demonstrating the wearability and versatility of the garments in a high-energy, performance-driven context. Throughout the show, the musicians played rousing melodies, the singers belted out powerful tunes, and the dancers moved with captivating rhythm, elevating the entire experience beyond a static runway presentation. By the show’s exhilarating conclusion, the collective energy was so overwhelming that everyone – models, performers, and audience alike – erupted in a unified, joyous dance, solidifying the communal spirit of the event.

In a nation that, for several years, had been grappling with deep divisions and polarizing rhetoric from the highest echelons of power, the TommyXZendaya show emerged as a beacon of hope and a testament to courage. It delivered an unequivocal statement that true national strength is not found in uniformity or exclusion, but rather in the beauty and power of unity, acceptance, and coming together. The show actively championed the notion that our collective identity, enriched by diverse perspectives and experiences, is what truly makes us resilient and vibrant. It was a poignant reminder that fashion, when wielded thoughtfully, can serve as a potent platform for social commentary and positive reinforcement, advocating for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Adding to its revolutionary approach, the entire TommyXZendaya Fall 2019 collection was made immediately available for purchase through a “see now, buy now” model, allowing eager consumers to acquire their favorite looks directly from the collection’s dedicated site right after the show. This immediate accessibility further cemented the collection’s modern and inclusive ethos, ensuring that the message of empowerment and diversity was not just for the runway, but readily available to everyone. The collaboration between Tommy Hilfiger and Zendaya created not just a successful fashion line, but a memorable cultural event that underscored the importance of celebrating every facet of what makes America truly great.