Since Image Architect Law Roach [1] officially announced his retirement from styling [2] back in 2023, he's been busy. The fashion icon still works closely with Zendaya on her red carpet looks, of course, while also promoting his book, "How to Build a Fashion Icon [3]"; sharing his expertise on panels; partnering on "School [4]," an online educational platform for aspiring fashion stylists; and collaborating with New York City's The Dominick Hotel [5] on a specialty cocktail. And that's before you even get to his work for the 2025 Met Gala.
Ahead of this year's ball, themed around Black dandyism [6], Roach creative directed a groundbreaking photo shoot for Vogue Magazine's Met Gala issue [7] featuring such names as Spike Lee, Dapper Dan, Teyana Taylor, Tyson Beckford, and Janelle Monae. At a luncheon at the Mark Hotel celebrating the gala, Roach teased that he'll be dressing seven celebrities and relying on his tried-and-true styling hacks to create red carpet magic. The item he uses most costs just $8. "[Vaseline] is an essential in my kit," he says, "whether I'm using it to help clients slip into shoes or lathering it on legs to give that glow." He also names double-sided tape [8] as the product he always has on set when dressing Zendaya.
Given his busy schedule, it's no surprise that his biggest form of self-care [9] is sleeping. "I am always traveling, so when I finally get a day off, I use it to rest and reset," he says. He'll surely enjoy his time off once the Met Gala is in the rearview, but for now, he's moving full steam ahead pulling references, styling clients, and embodying the theme with ease and reverence as a modern Black dandy himself.
Below, he shares his five everyday must haves for Met Gala prep, self-care time, and more. From the under-$10 product he uses in 5 different ways to his go-to brand of sweatpants, keep scrolling for all Law Roach's essentials.
Law Roach's Affordable Must Have
Roach was first introduced to Vaseline Original Healing Jelly [10] ($8) by his mother. "Growing up in Chicago, Vaseline was a staple, my mom would cover me in it before school to protect my skin from the harsh winters," he says. "She used it in her own skincare routine too, so that iconic blue-and-yellow tub is so nostalgic for me." Today, Roach grabs the bestseller when he needs a makeup primer, a highlight, a brow sculptor, an under-eye moisturizer, and more.
Pro Tip: Roach says to mix Vaseline with colognes, perfumes, and even essential oils and then apply to your pulse points to make your favorite scent last all day long.
Law Roach's Loungewear Must Have
"People always ask me what my favorite thing to wear is and they expect me to say something extravagant, but my favorite off-duty look is actually just a pair of Hanes sweatpants," Roach reveals. Hanes EcoSmart Fleece Sweatpants [11] ($11, originally $21) are available in black, charcoal heather, light steel, navy, and slate heather, making for a range of neutrals that could easily round out anyone's casual athleisure wardrobe. Made from 50 percent cotton and 50 percent polyester, these sweats can be thrown in the machine often for an easy wash — especially since they're pill-resistant and durable.
Law Roach's Food Must Have
"I love caviar and Ruffles," Roach says. "It is the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends." You can shop Caviar Russe's Caspian Sea Classic Osetra Caviar [12] ($165) in all different sizes, depending on how big the party is that you're hosting (1.75 ounces is recommended for one to two people). The flavor boasts a full and nutty taste, and pairs well with everything from chips to mini pancakes. In a pinch? You can purchase it on the site for next-day delivery or pick it up if you're near one of the boutiques in New York or Miami.
Law Roach's Travel Must Have
Roach depends on the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer [13] ($24) when he's on the go. "I have been using this moisturizer so much recently. It really helps keep my skin hydrated when I am going from plane to plane," he explains. The cream is oil- and fragrance-free and recommended for all skin types. It contains ceramide and niacinamide and provides up to 48 hours of hydration according to the brand. Use it morning or night.
Law Roach's Cocktail Must Have
"Casamigos Reposado [14] ($48) is my go-to drink. Just throw in some ice," Roach says. For those who haven't enjoyed the simplicity of his cocktail of choice, Casamigos Reposado is described as smooth and clean with hints of caramel, chocolate, and spice, according to the brand. It's aged for seven months in American white oak casks that are reconditioned after originally being used for premium-aged whiskey.
Law Roach's Investment Must Have
"I don't think this one needs much of an explanation. Who doesn't need a Birkin?" Roach says. We recommend checking out the stock at Fashionphile, where you can pick up this Hermès Togo Birkin 25 Craie [15] ($26,995) in giftable condition, along with a number of pre-owned styles that are original in color and just as unique as the last.
All Fashionphile bags come with a certificate of authenticity, and you have the option to sell your purchase back for up to 12 months. This off-white leather iteration of the iconic designer handbag [16] features a strap closure with signature gold plated hardware, including a padlock and keys. It comes with a matching chevre leather interior.
— Additional reporting by Jessica C. Andrews [17]
Sarah Wasilak [18] (she/her) is the associate director of PS Shopping. With plenty of experience in the fashion industry and over 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle, health, and fitness categories. She is the host of the "Dinner For Shoes" podcast and has bylines at InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit.
Jessica C. Andrews [19] (she/her) is an award-winning editor and writer who works as the senior content director of PS Shopping. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She's appeared on "Good Morning America," NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.