Balenciaga names Michelle Yeoh as new brand ambassador

Luxury fashion brand Balenciaga has named Malaysian actress and producer, Michelle Yeoh, as its brand ambassador for its Spring 2024 campaign. Yeoh is well known for her multi-genre acting career, as well as for being the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Actress in June 2023.

The Spanish fashion house announced the appointment in a statement, citing their existing and close relationship.

"Aready close with the House, the legendary actress, producer, and martial artist of international renown announces with Balenciaga that their relationship will continue to grow in an official capacity," it said. 

Her new role was commemorated with a portrait by British documentary photographer, Platon, who is known for capturing prominent personalities.

Don’t miss: Michelle Yeoh elected into International Olympic Committee

Prior to their official collaboration, Yeoh exclusively wore Balenciaga Couture for her red-carpet appearances at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and the Kering Women in Motion Dinner.

“For me, fashion is a form of art. It’s not just about a dress but about self-expression, how you feel in the dress, and the values you embody wearing it; it is a way to communicate my work and who I am to the world,” said Yeoh in the statement.

“Wearing Balenciaga makes me value the artistry and craftsmanship behind every piece. The brand embodies a sense of originality and relevance while always remaining true to its heritage as a couture atelier. It is an honour to partner with Balenciaga,” she added.

Yeoh joins Balenciaga’s previously named ambassadors, Isabelle Huppert and PP Krit Amnuaydechkorn.

This is also the latest in a recent string of appointments for the actress, who was elected to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an independent individual in October 2023. She was one of eight new members voted in on the final day of the 141st IOC session in Mumbai, India.

Yeoh was elected in accordance with Rule 16.1.1.1 of the Olympic Charter, which allows for up to seven IOC Members to be elected in special cases without a nationality or National Olympic Committee (NOC) requirement, according to a statement by the committee.

“I am honoured to be chosen as a member of the International Olympic Committee. I fully accept all the responsibilities that this offer brings,” she said during the session.

Earlier in April 2023, Yeoh was also featured in several video teasers with Estee Lauder’s skincare brand, La Mer, showcasing the actress’s ballet and martial art moves.

According to La Mer’s Instagram post, the teasers saw Yeoh applying the brand's moisturising cream gently on her face and hand while featuring some ballet and martial art moves. These intended to give audiences an "intimate view of Yeoh’s journey to becoming the iconic leading lady she is today" as well as an inside look into the beauty rituals that give Yeoh an "ever-so-timeless radiance".

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