Zac Efron’s dapper red carpet style has transformed as the decades have passed.
The actor, who’s become known for his dapper approach to dressing for premieres and formal occasions, was key in establishing the neutral-focused suiting and dress shoe codes of the late 2000’s and early 2010’s — notably as his career progressed with films including “17 Again,” “The Lucky One” and “The Paperboy.” As time went on, Efron expanded his wardrobe to more trendy prints and light colors — as well as an array of sharp leather boots and loafers.
Today, the star’s style has embraced his go-to tailoring with an array of current trends, including “quiet luxury” and retro-inspired, lighter suiting. Below, we’re looking back at his transformation on the red carpet over the years.
In 2009, Efron hit the red carpet for the premiere of “17 Again” in Hollywood. For the occasion, the 21-year-old actor laced into a classic pair of shiny black leather brogues, paired with a black suit, white collared shirt and skinny tie.
During the international 2012 press tour for romantic drama “The Lucky One,” Efron’s sharp suiting streak evolved with a more tailored look — and shoes to match. At the film’s Berlin premiere, the actor stepped out in glossy black dress shoes with a silky cranberry suit for a dapper take on jewel tones.
2016 found Efron on the press tour for the comedy “Mike And Dave Need Wedding Dates,” with a coordinating lineup of summer-worthy suiting and shoes. At the film’s premiere in Hollywood, the actor arrived in a set of dark brown suede Oxfords with a faintly cross-hatched tan suit. A white collared shirt and tri-toned tie completed his look with a complementary flair.
In 2023, Efron began promoting his newest film: the A24 wrestling drama “The Iron Claw.” At the film’s world premiere in Dallas, Texas, the actor wore deep red leather loafers topped with tassels in a nod to the sartorial shoe trends of the ’70s. The actor’s tonal shoes proved a sharp complement to his outfit for the occasion: a smooth cream suit by Reiss, nonchalantly layered atop a ribbed white shirt.
In December 2023, Efron stepped out in New York City while doing press for “The Iron Claw.” The actor embraced the neutral-focused “quiet luxury” aesthetic in a pair of versatile black leather boots, which elevated a multi-toned “groutfit”: a deep gray knit sweater and trousers, layered beneath a pale gray cashmere coat.
About the Author:
Aaron Royce is the Digital Editor for Footwear News, where he writes stories on trending news, celebrity style, collaborations and in-depth profile interviews. Prior to joining Footwear News, Aaron wrote for publications including PAPER, Grazia and the Daily Front Row. He currently holds a B.S. in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University.
