If you’re anything like me, you watched the Oscars red carpet like a hawk, waiting for Zendaya to arrive, only to be sorely disappointed that she was a no-show. However, over three hours into the ceremony, Zendaya surprised everyone and strolled onto the stage to present Paul Thomas Anderson with the top directing award.

Accompanied by Robert Pattinson, her co-star in The Drama, Zendaya wore a striking brown one-shouldered custom Louis Vuitton dress. It was a more low-key look than we’re used to seeing on the fashion star, but it made total sense considering she was there as a presenter, not as a nominee. Elegant and classic, the draped dress immediately shot to the top of my best-dressed list. (Elle Fanning and Kylie Jenner also made my personal best-of roundup.) Oh, and did you notice Zendaya’s diamond Rolex watch? Scroll down to see what Zendaya wore on stage at the 2026 Academy Awards after skipping the red carpet.

On Zendaya: Louis Vuitton dress; Rolex watch; Cindy Chao The Art Jewel White Label Collection Diamond Branch Earrings and Ring