Spark

With a cast like that of Crazy Rich Asians, it was hard to know where to focus while watching (and rewatching) this movie – seriously, has there ever been a more beautiful group of people in one film? Between the laughing and ugly crying, we found ourselves swooning over the costume design in the movie – until the cast started making their rounds in the red carpet circuit. First, Constance Wu sported 90 carats of diamonds on her dress to the premiere (if you haven’t Googled it yet, prepare to have your mind blown), then Gemma Chan took over. With impeccable comedic timing and a wardrobe that could take down even the most established Hollywood star, Gemma Chan is a force to be reckoned with. In honour of her breakaway year, here’s our take on one of our favourite looks from Gemma Chan.

Gemma’s looks always impress and surprise. The lawyer-turned-model-turned-actress definitely knows a thing or two about pushing style boundaries, and has a staggering amount of knowledge about the fashion industry. She regularly champions Asian design talent, and looks spectacular while doing it. Gemma rocked this monochromatic pink suit to the Tory Burch Spring/Summer 2019 show at the Smithsonian Design Museum in New York after – get this – taking a 24-hour break from filming a new movie in London and jumping on a plane. Seriously. We don’t think we could ever look that good after a transatlantic flight, but we’ll keep trying. Here’s the breakdown of Gemma’s look.

The elements: a perfectly fitted blazer + polished trousers + pointed pumps + geometric inspired purse

The blazer: While the big star of Gemma’s outfit is the colour of her suit, the blazer is a close second. It lies perfectly across her shoulders, and hugs the shape of her body to create an ultra-flattering silhouette. Opting for details like big buttons or visible pockets adds interest without overwhelming the already bold look or adding extra bulk. Gemma went for a more Kim K./Gigi Hadid look by rocking the blazer on its own but if that’s a little too risqué for you, feel free to toss on a neutral-coloured layer underneath. And don’t forget to push up the sleeves of your blazer for that effortlessly cool, just stepped off a plane to go to the Tory Burch Spring/Summer show feel.

Polished trousers: Gemma’s trousers don’t taper at all, giving a smooth line all the way down. Not that the ex-model needs help looking taller, but this is a great technique to add length if you’re a little vertically challenged. The key here is for the fabric to drape straight down from your hips, and cropping the pants right around your ankle (because you have to show off your shoes, of course). It might be an extra step to take your trousers to the tailor, but it will pay off. Especially when you’re playing with more fabric, you want to make sure the fit is perfect – after all, you don’t want to feel like you borrowed your mom’s suit pants.

Pointed pumps: At the very end of the beautiful line created by the trousers, you have to have some jaw-dropping shoes. Will you wear these shoes everyday? Maybe not. Should you wear them with this suit? Absolutely. As if Gemma’s outfit could be more chic, she ups the ante with a stunning pointed toe. Because there aren’t any patterns on the suit, you can definitely choose footwear with some pattern or texture – just stay away from bold colours so you don’t upstage the outfit.

Geometric purse: You don’t need to tell us to add more pink to our outfit. Keeping the purse in the same colour family ties the whole look together – and don’t even get us started on the circle clasp on the front or the chain strap.

Now all that’s left is pulling your hair back into the perfect summer updo, and you’re all set.  And, once you’ve mastered Gemma’s look, try your hand at our Margot Robbie-inspired monochromatic makeup.

Looking to channel your inner Gemma Chan? Visit St. Vital Centre to shop the pieces featured in this post (check stores for availability).
Pink blazer: Le Chateau, $150
Wide-leg pink trousers: RW&Co $89.90
Snakeskin pumps with translucent detailing: Le Chateau $79.95
Mauve handbag: Hudson’s Bay (TopShop) $48