Michelle Yeoh has always been a force to be reckoned with — except now, the world finally knows. After winning a Gloden Globe and a SAG award for her role in A24’s absurdist comedy-drama Everything Everywhere All At Once, she made history as the first Asian woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress at the 95th Academy Awards. In the shoes of Chinese-American mother Evelyn Quan Wang, Yeoh delivered a powerful, emotionally-charged performance that encapsulated the nuances of the immigrant experience, resonating with millions across the globe. 

While the Malaysian actress’ rise to mainstream fame only came recently with international box-office hits Crazy Rich Asians and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Yeoh has long been a familiar face in Asia. Under the alias Michelle Khan, Yeoh’s star first rose in Hong Kong more than thirty years ago, where she wowed the crowd by performing her own stunts in a series of local action films such as Yes, Madam (1985) and Police Story 3: Supercop (1992). Her fierce dedication to her craft soon paved the way for Yeoh to make her Hollywood debut as the first ethnic Chinese Bond girl in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), later securing a major role in Ang Lee’s Oscar-winning film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000). 

Yeoh is daring, and her sartorial choices are just as multifaceted as her acting skills. Like any Hollywood actress, she has a penchant for vibrant floor-length gowns that scream golden-age glamour, with Elie Saab and Armani Privé among her go-to brands. Her standout looks also include embellished cheongsams or baju kurung-inspired ensembles that nod to her Chinese-Malaysian heritage. While the actress still relishes in making a fashion statement, (see her Prabal Gurung Met Gala look and Schiaparelli dress at the SAG Awards), she has been opting for classic tailoring recently, cutting a sharp look in sleek caped blazers and suit sets from Dior and Chanel. No matter what she is wearing, though, she pulls it off with understated grace and quiet assurance — the kind that only exudes from a seasoned dream-chaser like Yeoh.