Yao Chen has been serving up a style masterclass while promoting her projects during the 2025 Berlinale International Film Festival. From Chanel Haute Couture to Armani Privé, she’s effortlessly moved between tailoring to ethereal elegance.
Opening Ceremony
You might be looking at Yao in this iridescent off-white tweed Chanel Spring 2024 Haute Couture trompe-l’oeil tailored dress and feeling a sense of déjà vu. And you’d be right! We’ve already seen Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying and Kristen Stewart in white looks from this collection, each featuring the signature white illusion tulle overskirt. Another common thread?
The white jersey tights. Chanel is clearly committed to this styling choice. I personally don’t feel it suits Yao’s style. Especially when you line this up against the other looks from this festival.
Living the Land Photocall
Some might argue that the gold Chloé necklaces Yao styled with her Chloé lavallière blouse—decorated with lurex fil coupé heritage brocade flowers—were a touch excessive. But, without them, this could’ve leaned a little too office-ready, especially when paired with black trousers. The added accessories bring personality and prevent the look from feeling too corporate.
A smart move, if you ask me.
Living the Land Premiere
If you were expecting a sweeping gown, you might be disappointed. But what’s there to be upset about when she steps out in this striking Armani Privé Fall 2022 embellished ensemble? The nod to her Chinese heritage through the cheongsam-inspired silhouette adds a meaningful touch, and the overall effect is both sleek and regal. My only gripe? The embellished Jimmy Choo pumps feel like an afterthought. A cleaner shoe choice could’ve really sealed the deal. Chopard jewels completed her look.
Village Rockstars Premiere
As a producer on Village Rockstars, Yao made sure her outfit was just as dazzling as her film’s moment at Berlinale. She opted for another Armani Privé suit, this time a sharp black embellished number from the Fall 2024 collection. The structured shoulders, adorned with crystal embroidery, added the perfect amount of drama, while her Anna Hu Haute Joaillerie diamond statement earrings amplified the glamour.
A true power move.
Out In Berlin
Berlin is blanketed in snow, but Yao wasn’t about to let that stop her from delivering a chic fashion moment. She stepped out in an ivory Stéphane Rolland Spring 2022 Haute Couture open-back wool dress, looking effortlessly elegant. The baggy white gloves would usually be quite distracting, but given the wintery conditions, I’d say they were a practical choice. This look was everything we expect from Stéphane Rolland—ultra-feminine, refined, and effortlessly regal.
Silver metallic pumps completed her look.
From Chanel Haute Couture to Armani tailoring to snowy elegance, Yao’s Berlinale wardrobe was a perfectly curated mix of classic, modern, and bold choices. Which look is your favourite?
Stylist: Lucia Liu 刘璐
Credit: Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images / Vogue.com / Weibo / WWD
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