For most celebrities, donning a gown for a red carpet event is like putting on a uniform: instead of clocking in at an office, they’re stepping onto a red carpet to be photographed and scrutinized from every angle. For many of Hollywood’s A-list, stylists work behind the scenes to secure looks from the latest trending runway collections. While some are content selecting a gown from a pre-approved line sheet, others see red carpet dressing as a far more personal—and artistic—endeavor.
Noted Haute Couture collector, philanthropist, and Bling Empire producer and star Christine Chiu, fashion is a form of storytelling—an expression that weaves together the most important elements of her life. So it’s no surprise that for the 2025 Gold Gala, Chiu collaborated with designer Ou Ma on a custom gown inspired by a Qing Dynasty painting of deep personal significance.
The annual Gold Gala, hosted by the non-profit Gold House, honors excellence and impact within the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. The star-studded event brings together leaders in music, fashion, film, and sports to celebrate and champion AAPI voices. And in today’s cultural and political climate, showing up (and standing out!) matters more than ever.
Chiu told Who What Wear that the entire experience of bringing her custom look to life was incredibly inspiring. “Ou’s artistic vision, shaped by her upbringing in Beijing and work with great American designers like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, brings a unique blend of tradition and modernity to her designs,” Chiu added. “Ou meticulously created a gown that not only celebrates the elegance of our cultural roots but also embodies the spirit of innovation and empowerment that AAPI Heritage Month represents.”
In an exclusive photo diary, Chiu documented her process for fitting her gown with designer Ou Ma, and took us along to get ready with her for the 2025 Gold Gala.
“So grateful to be able to showcase my heritage in this special way! I’m happy to wear my own Farraone Mennella pigeons blood rubies and emerald diamond earrings. The rubies symbolize passion and power, while emeralds symbolize wisdom and growth.”
