Kristen Stewart covers the July 2023 issue of ELLE Japan. Stewart was photographed by Zoey Grossman for ELLE Japan.
Reporter: Thank you for joining us today, Kristen. Let’s start by discussing your collaboration with Chanel. You’ve been praised for your unique style and sensibility as Chanel’s muse. Could you tell us more about that?
Kristen Stewart: Absolutely. I believe that the most important aspect of wearing clothes is the feeling that they empower me to do something, to become something. Whether it’s elegance or playfulness, I want to feel active and engaged. I enjoy exploring new ideas and pushing boundaries, using fashion as an opportunity for self-expression. Chanel, with its punk hair and makeup, allows me to play with outfits and infuse them with my own colors. It’s a brand that embraces individuality and creates a timeless appeal.
Reporter: It’s evident that you have a strong connection with Chanel and its current artistic director, Virginie Viard. What can you tell us about your working relationship?
Kristen Stewart: Virginie is a natural and genuine person. She possesses a sensibility and an eye that are always searching for something. She knows how to make people feel better and effortlessly moves forward without hesitation or self-doubt. Working with her, I find myself adopting that attitude and getting completely absorbed in the process. The wonderful things she has cultivated and the people she has brought together have made me feel incredibly fortunate. With both Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie, I initially felt that working with Chanel was out of my reach, but I quickly realized that their ambitions go beyond superficialities. They embrace the narratives, impulses, and vitality of the Maison, constantly evolving and cultivating new curiosity. Understanding where you come from is essential to defining where you are going, and I trust the truth they tell.
Reporter: Trust seems to be an important aspect not only in your collaboration with Chanel but also in your acting career. Can you elaborate on that?
Kristen Stewart: Trust is indeed a crucial element in both my creative collaborations and my acting career. From Hollywood blockbusters to independent directorial works, I strive to choose projects that align with my artistic sensibilities and speak to me on a deeper level. Trusting my intuition has been a guiding principle in selecting good work. It’s like sparks flying, and it’s important to unite with the crew to work towards a shared vision. We all put in our efforts, taking different paths but aiming for the same destination. It’s a little miracle when we can share the same awareness and be on the same page with our collaborators.
Reporter: Your latest project, directing a feature film, seems to reflect your passion for self-love and self-discovery. Can you tell us more about this endeavor?
Kristen Stewart: This project has been a vibrant experience for me. It feels like something distilled inside my being, spreading its wings to the world. It’s about sharing my inner self and perspective with others through the rawness of art. Self-love and self-discovery are central themes for me, and this film represents my journey towards embracing them. Getting closer to vulnerability and exploring uncharted territories has been the best way to bridge gaps and connect with others. The selection of my works is often driven by this strong tendency to make decisions based on intuition, and it has allowed me to create meaningful and authentic art.
Reporter: Thank you, Kristen, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We look forward to seeing your future endeavors both on and off the screen.
Kristen Stewart: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
Source: ELLE Japan
