The "Zendaya Hat Theory" is a viral internet meme and semi-ironic conspiracy theory that humorously suggests Zendaya's oversized hats, particularly one she wore in 2014, have a mysterious or profound significance

. The theory originated from a 2014 event where Zendaya wore a large black Emporio Armani hat to the Teen Vogue Young Hollywood party, which sparked jokes online about what she might be hiding under it

. In 2025, the theory resurfaced and gained traction on TikTok, especially after Zendaya wore another large hat to the Met Gala. TikTok users created eerie, glitchy videos and fabricated nonsensical "evidence," such as mathematical connections and cryptic references involving Zendaya, her hats, and even Tom Holland, her fiancé. Some playful claims include that Tom Holland is hidden inside the hat or that the hat is cursed or blessed

. The theory is largely a parody of internet conspiracy videos and memes, intentionally confusing and amusing viewers rather than presenting any real conspiracy. It uses spooky visuals and mysterious music to create an unsettling mood, but there is no actual secret behind Zendaya's hats. Zendaya herself has acknowledged the meme and said she finds it amusing and would wear the hat again

. In essence, the Zendaya Hat Theory is a humorous, creative internet phenomenon that blends fashion, celebrity culture, and absurd conspiracy parody, with no factual basis beyond Zendaya’s notable hat choices