US actress Gabrielle Union (2L) and her husband former professional basketball player Dwayne Wade pose with daughters Zaya Wade (L) and Kaavia James Union Wade (2R) as they arrive for the "Cheaper by the Dozen" Disney premiere at the El Capitan theatre in Hollywood, California, March 16, 2022. (Photo by Chris Delmas / AFP) (Photo by CHRIS DELMAS/AFP via Getty Images)
Zaya Wade recently experienced a major high school moment: winter formal. And father, Dwyane Wade, and stepmother, Gabrielle Union, made the send-off a family affair backed by public support.
In a joint post on Instagram, the married couple wrote:
“Winter formal. Supporting each other for life’s big moments is key. All the nerves, all the anxiety, all the fear…with loved ones by your side, no matter the challenge, we 10 toes down. Always.”
In a series of photos and videos, Dwyane and Gabrielle smiled alongside their 15-year-old as she debuted her formal winter gown. Thomas Christos styled Zaya in Rodarte’s ‘FW22 Sequin Column Gown with Tulle Bolero.’
The dress is a shimmering ivory, floor-length, flowing dress with removable ruffle sleeves. The front of the dress was adorned with a large white rose, and she wore a no-pendant, small necklace. Zaya topped off the look with dark kitten heels and a silk press with curls by Alexander Armand. In addition, she wore a natural, sot glam with glossed lips by makeup artist Malika and a matching dark-colored mani-pedi.
No word on how the teenager spent her evening! But the look was serving and captured in-home, according to a video of a living room backdrop set-up.
Notably absent from photos was Zaya’s biological mother, Siohvaughn Funches-Wade, who has been vocal about her disapproval of Dwyane’s parenting. As previously reported, Dwyane filed in August to legally change Zaya’s name and gender. At 12 years old, per Wade, Zaya requested to drop the name, Zion.
In November, Wade doubled down on his petition for legal changes. He detailed his desire for Zaya to live as her authentic self.
The court docs reportedly said:
“A court order affirming her identity will allow Zaya to live more comfortably and honestly in all aspects of her life–from simple introductions and food orders to apply for a driver’s license and filing out college applications.”
“This petition is about allowing Zaya to take on the milestones of being a young adult with confidence and joy.”
Dwyane’s filing in November came after Siohvaughn accused her ex of being “positioned to profit” through marketing opportunities from changing Zaya’s name and gender. She also accused Wade of pressuring Zaya to request the legal name and gender change.
