Secrets of the Stylish: Getting ready for Cannes with Jessica Wang

One of the most glamorous red carpets in the world called for some Giambattista Valli drama.

Photo Credit: Courtesy

When it comes to red-carpet fashion, you don't get much more glamorous than the Cannes Film Festival. So, when the moment arrives to choose something to wear for the occasion, you have to pull out all the stops. For TikTok sensation Jessica Wang – who attended the premiere of Armageddon Time yesterday evening – Cannes called for some red-carpet drama in the form of Giambattista Valli tulle.

The stylish star hit the red carpet wearing an enormous, white, tiered gown by the fashion house, which she teamed with some statement Bulgari jewellery.

We caught up with Wang moments before she hit the Croisette to talk all things fashion, confidence, and being inspired by Grace Kelly.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR OUTFIT THIS EVENING?

The three words that come to my mind when thinking about the Cannes Film Festival are femininity, glamour and elegance. I must admit Grace Kelly was a big inspiration for the carpet as this year will mark 40 years of her passing. So, when I first laid my eyes upon this Giambattista Valli dress I knew I had to wear it. The volume and silhouette reminded me of her timelessness and poise, so this gown was my ode to her for the evening.

Photo Courtesy: Courtesy

WHAT DREW YOU TO THIS DRESS?

The second I tried this dress on it was love at first sight. Giambattista Valli is one of my favourite brands, especially when I need to walk a carpet. Each time we collaborate is so special and wearing his designs truly is such an honour. Giambattista’s designs are so chic and beautifully sculpt the body which makes me feel confident at every angle.

HOW HAS YOUR STYLE EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?

Over the years my style has changed drastically, I’ve become more experimental and confident in taking risks when it comes to selecting looks. I’m very drawn to unique silhouettes and love to play around with different styles and colours.

Photo Credit: Courtesy

Photo Credit: Courtesy

HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR STYLE, BODY, APPEARANCE CHANGED OVER THE YEARS?

As our personal styles and tastes evolve, so does our relationship with our body. It’s all such a process, but one of the main things is learning to love yourself and embrace what you would define as your flaws.

HOW MUCH DOES THE PROJECT YOU’RE WORKING ON IMPACT THE OUTFIT YOU CHOOSE?

What I’m working on and where I’m going are both factors that have an impact on what I decide to wear. However, I’ve never been one to shy away from my personal style. No matter who I’m working with or what content I’m creating for a brand, it’s all about finding a balance between the two aesthetics so that the final product aligns for both.

Photo Credit: Courtesy

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE RED-CARPET MOMENT OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS?

My first Cannes Film Festival was a few years ago and it was such a memorable experience as it was my first big red carpet. I remember being so nervous because I had no idea what to expect, but I was also so excited and honoured to be invited. Another one of my favourites was the Luisaviaroma for Unicef Italia Charity Gala, which I attended last year in Capri. The event was so special because over 5 million euros were raised to sustain UNICEF’s work in providing care and protection to vulnerable children across the globe.

WHOSE STYLE HAVE YOU ALWAYS ADMIRED AND WHY?

Anna May Wong, who is considered to be the first Chinese American movie star, has a style that I’ve always admired. She was forced to navigate the industry during a time where prejudice was extremely prominent in Hollywood. She was so talented and her style was the perfect combination of elegance meets avant-garde.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHICH BRANDS TO WORK WITH?

I think it really depends on what event I’m attending or the type of content I’m creating. But something that is super important to me is supporting and working with upcoming brands and designers. Running a small business is very testing, especially in such a competitive industry, so when I find the opportunity to work with an emerging brand I’m eager to support.

WHAT IS YOUR PERFECT ‘GETTING READY’ SET-UP?

I don’t always have a team of make-up artists or people doing my hair with me, but I think it's wonderful as it gives me the possibility of discovering new talents. However, my perfect get ready set-up must include good music and a ring light. Whether I’m filming or not, a ring light is essential for good lighting, and the music just sets the mood.

FASHION HAS A REPUTATION FOR BEING FRIVOLOUS, BUT WHY DOES WHAT WE WEAR MATTER?

Fashion can be frivolous but it can be so much more. Fashion can be used as a tool to enhance your mood or personality. And while I don’t think everyone constantly wakes up feeling confident, I do think fashion is a great way to find what makes you feel confident. People tend to associate good fashion with what’s trending but not everything has to be new and off the runway to be fashionable. What you wear shouldn’t matter to anyone besides yourself.

Read more via Harper's Bazaar.