As a stylist, Law Roach has helped stars like Zendaya, Celine Dion, and Anya Taylor-Joy stand out on the red carpet, dressing them in his signature mix of haute couture and vintage finds from designers such as Bob Mackie. Roach is also the author of How to Build a Fashion Icon, a guide to developing personal style. After announcing his retirement from day-to-day styling on Instagram in 2023, he launched School of Style, an educational program intended to help new stylists build a portfolio and get a foothold in the industry.
What’s your best habit, and what’s your worst?
My best is getting lots of sleep. My worst is caving in to my cravings; when I find something I like, I want to eat it every day until I’m sick of it. Right now I’m obsessed with gochujang sauce.
What do you do when you’re creatively stuck?
I’ll just take a nap.
Is there a businessperson you admire?
There’s a photographer and stylist I admire named Wisdom Kaye.
Is there a buzzword you never want to hear again?
“Diversity and inclusion.” I wish we could get to a point where that’s not even a thing because everybody is treated fairly and everybody has the same amount of equality and equity.
What’s the best mistake you ever made?
Retiring. When I wrote a now-infamous Instagram post, it was a way for me to take a breath. It was the best thing I ever did for myself. It gave me a chance to become happy.
How do you unplug?
I delete all social media off my phone.
Is there a book you recommend to everyone?
My book, How to Build a Fashion Icon. It teaches you that confidence can carry anything.
Which advice are you glad you ignored?
My first job was at a mental health facility. I wanted to quit and start my career in fashion. My grandmother told me not to because the job had healthcare benefits. I’m happy I didn’t listen to her.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust yourself.
Did you have a career fork in the road?
Working with Celine Dion put my name on a global level.
Do you have a wardrobe staple?
An oversize white button-down shirt. I get the cheapest brand in the biggest size off Amazon. I love being swallowed up by it. It’s versatile—I could wear it with a belt or with jeans or wrap it around me. I let it drop off my shoulder when I want to feel demure.
Who is your style icon?
Grace Jones.
What’s always in your bag?
Floss, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast lip balm, and a travel-size fragrance. Right now I’m wearing Good Girl Gone Bad from Kilian.
Do you have a favorite object in your office?
A Kehinde Wiley portrait of a young Black girl.
How do you exercise?
Shopping. Especially in Soho.
What TV show are you mid-binge on?
Emily in Paris. I feel like I should be on that show.
Do you have a mantra?
“The universe always protects and provides.”
What is your go-to food for fast fuel?
Peanut butter M&M’s and a sip of Pepsi—just enough to get that carbonation in my tummy.
Is there a meal you still fantasize about?
Dovetale, in London, has a sweet corn ravioli that I can’t stop thinking about.
What do you send to congratulate someone?
White flowers. A white bouquet or a single white orchid is so chic to me.
Is there a meeting you never miss?
I never miss any meetings.
