Zendaya has a lot to look forward to in 2023. The Golden Globe–winning actor will star in two highly anticipated films this year, each helmed by celebrated directors. First: Challengers, a Luca Guadagnino–directed tennis drama releasing in August. Then, in October, the second installment of Denis Villeneuve’s ambitious adaptation of the sci-fi classic Dune. “I’m in really special hands,” Zendaya says of working with two modern auteurs. When we speak, the actor is enjoying a rare moment of downtime in London. “I’m taking a break right now,” Zendaya tells Vogue, speaking over the phone. “I have a full year ahead of me.”

Break is a relative term. Despite her busy schedule, Zendaya recently added another gig to her already impressive resume: Louis Vuitton ambassador. It makes sense that one of the most recognizable brands in the world would partner with an actor who has consistently bent red carpet fashion to her advantage. Over the years—often with longtime stylist Law Roach by her side—Zendaya has worn outfits that live well-beyond the next day’s fashion recaps. She’s donned a crown of dreadlocks to the Oscars; worn a hot-pink Tom Ford breastplate to the 2020 Critic’s Choice Awards; transformed into a Joan of Arc of sorts for the 2018 Met Gala. “I just enjoy clothes and playing with them and creating new characters,” Zendaya says of her approach to red carpet dressing. “That’s what I find fun about fashion, it’s transformative quality, it’s ability to be like storytelling.”