The Dynamic Duo: Jenna Ortega and Enrique Melendez
Jenna Ortega, the rising star known for her captivating performances, has made waves not only in the film industry but also on the fashion scene. Since teaming up with stylist Enrique Melendez at just 14 years old, their partnership has blossomed into a formidable force in red carpet fashion. As they approach their 10-year anniversary in 2025, Ortega and Melendez have solidified their status as a duo to watch, consistently delivering looks that balance unconventional silhouettes with pieces of fashion history.
A Collaborative Approach to Fashion
Ortega and Melendez pride themselves on their collaborative approach to styling. “She’s not a doll,” Melendez emphasizes, highlighting the importance of conversation in their fittings. This dialogue allows them to explore various styles without the pressure to shock the masses. Instead, they focus on what excites them, a mindset that continues to guide their creative process as they prepare for upcoming projects in 2026.
Red Carpet Highlights of 2025
As Ortega gears up for a busy year with films like The Gallerist and Ghostwriter, Melendez reflects on some of her standout looks from 2025. Each appearance has been a testament to their evolving style and the stories behind the garments they choose.
The 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars Party
Ortega’s year kicked off with her first invitation to the Vanity Fair Oscars Party, where she donned a vintage Donna Karan gown from 2004. Melendez had access to Karan’s extensive archive and selected a delicately draped gown that featured airy ruffles and a sheer train. To modernize the look, he adjusted the tulle straps, allowing one to drape off Ortega’s shoulder, creating a youthful and fresh interpretation of the original design.
The 2025 Met Gala
At the 2025 Met Gala, themed "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," Ortega turned heads in a custom Balmain gown. Melendez envisioned this collaboration the moment he learned of the theme, believing it was a perfect fit for Ortega. The gown, crafted from manipulated metal rulers, was a literal interpretation of the dress code. Despite initial confusion from fashion critics, Melendez remained confident in their artistic choice, believing that true art often requires deeper inspection.
The Hurry Up Tomorrow Premiere
Following the Met Gala, Ortega made a bold statement at the Hurry Up Tomorrow premiere in a historic Dior dress originally worn by Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City. Securing this iconic piece was no small feat, as Melendez faced initial rejection. However, with persistence and the backing of HBO and Lionsgate, he obtained the dress just moments before the event. The backless midi dress fit Ortega perfectly, showcasing her understanding of fashion history and her stylist’s passion for the craft.
The Wednesday Press Tour
As the promotional circuit for Wednesday Season 2 began, Melendez sought to break away from the gothic aesthetic that defined the first season. Inspired by 90s fashion, he curated looks that reflected Ortega’s evolving style. One standout piece was a gown from Ashi Studio’s Fall 2025 collection, which featured a snake-scaled skirt and a corseted design. This choice marked a departure from the previous season’s dark themes, showcasing Ortega’s versatility and Melendez’s ability to adapt to her vision.
The 2025 Emmy Awards
The Emmy Awards presented another opportunity for Ortega to shine, as Melendez selected a stunning Givenchy top adorned with mismatched gemstones. Initially designed to be paired with low-rise trousers, Ortega suggested a skirt for a more elegant look. This collaboration resulted in a breathtaking ensemble that perfectly captured the essence of the awards show.
The Academy Museum Gala
In October 2025, Ortega attended the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Gala, where she continued the statement top trend. Melendez selected a futuristic look from Grace Ling’s Spring 2026 collection, which almost didn’t make the cut due to concerns about similarity to her Emmy look. However, the unique design ultimately proved to be a successful choice, further solidifying Ortega’s status as a fashion icon.
The Future of Fashion with Jenna Ortega
As Jenna Ortega and Enrique Melendez continue their journey in the fashion world, their partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and creativity. With each red carpet appearance, they not only showcase stunning designs but also tell stories that resonate with audiences. As they prepare for another year of exciting projects, fans can eagerly anticipate the innovative looks that will undoubtedly emerge from this dynamic duo.
