Hidden Depths

Retired diving star Guo Jingjing was a dream to work with, dazzling our team with her humble nature, focus and no-fuss attitude

For someone who’s strikingly beautiful, an Olympic gold medallist and a member of one of Hong Kong’s most prominent dynasties, Guo Jingjing could have been as demanding on set as she wanted and no one would have batted an eye. However, the former athlete proved to be the antithesis of such a persona. Remarkably gentle and low-key, the softly spoken Guo delighted all who styled, bejewelled and photographed her. When stylist Grace Lam sat down with her to discuss her look for the cover shoot, Guo gave her free rein, noting only that she prefers not to look overly sexy. As she was being made up, a band of brawny Cartier guards in black suits arrived with a treasure trove of gems for the day’s shoot. At one point, our stylist asked Guo to try a ring on every finger—but when it came to slipping them off, she found the most expensive one was stuck. “Oh well, your husband [Kenneth Fok] will just have to buy that one for you for Christmas,” one team member joked, and Guo broke into laughter. She spent most of the time in the studio barefoot and enjoyed whiling away the time between shots with Lam as they discussed their sons and exchanged baby tips. Even in the array of glamorous Lanvin and Elie Saab gowns, and bedecked with splendid jewels, Guo still calmly projected her brand of understated, modern elegance (see page 248).