FASHION IS A CHANCE TO TRANSFORM: MIKEY MADISON REVEALS HER BIGGEST STYLE INSPIRATIONS

Mikey Madison's breakout role arrived in 2016 in the form of FX's Better Things, a comedy-drama series that ran until 2022. In just 10 years since then, the actress has been cast in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, won a Best Actress Oscar and a BAFTA for her role in 2024's Anora and, later this year, will star as whistleblower Frances Haugen in The Social Reckoning, sequel to 2010's The Social Network. Outside of acting, Madison was one of the first Dior ambassadors to be appointed by Jonathan Anderson when he joined the fashion house and, as a result, she now rarely wears another label for red carpet events.

Last week, Anderson's very first Cruise collection was staged in LA, with Madison joining the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Greta Lee and Miley Cyrus on the front row. The show paid tribute to Hollywood in all its glamour, so it's fitting that Madison chose a skirt suit for the event that evoked the style of Old Hollywood icons from the 1940s and '50s.

Just after the show, we spoke to the actress about her choice of outfit, her relationship with her stylist, Andrew Makumal, and the best beauty advice she's ever been given. Talk us through your look today – what drew you to it and why does it feel like a good fit for you?

I absolutely loved the slightly retro feel of this skirt suit. It felt reminiscent of the 1940s, very Lauren Bacall to me, with the suit buttons going all the way to the top. We leaned into that with the hair. It was chic and sleek with a very classic silhouette, but the shortness of the skirt made it feel more modern and the iridescent glitter threads woven into the fabric added that perfect touch of Johnathan Anderson playfulness we all love. I added my custom pink Tiffany pinky ring and diamond studs for the final touch.

Why does Dior feel like a good fit for you and your personal style?

I’ve always loved Dior, the iconic silhouettes and glamour. Jonathan brings a very cinematic storytelling to his collections, especially last night with the Cruise show, that really resonates with me. There is a playfulness while still honouring the heritage of the house.

How involved do you tend to be in the styling process, and have you worked with a stylist today?

When I was about to go on the whirlwind press adventure with Anora, I started working with a stylist for the first time. I love collaboration and tend to want to have a very heavy hand in choosing every piece of clothing alongside who I’m working with. I’ve found a great partnership with my stylist, Andrew Makumal, and we have had lots of fun playing with all the beautiful Dior pieces and dreaming up custom sketches!

What kind of fashion makes you feel your most confident?

I love the elegancy of more classic silhouette. Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn had beautiful timeless styles. They are always on my mood boards.

What has your job taught you about style?

I think of fashion, especially for the red carpet, much like acting: it’s a chance to transform and step into a different character. There’s always a sense of storytelling in the look and overall vibe, which helps me step onto the carpet with confidence.

Do you see your beauty look as an extension of your outfit? In what way?

Absolutely! The outfit always kind of dictates where we go with hair and makeup and is usually the starting point for all of us to bounce around ideas. I’m always drawn to old Hollywood references from the ‘50s and ‘60s, and for this look we kept coming back to Veronica Lake.

What’s the best beauty tip you’ve ever been given?

My mother always told me that I’m most beautiful when I’m confident.

Whose style have you always admired?

I admire individuality in style. I love it when I see someone wearing something they love regardless of trends. Bianca Jagger, Jonathan Anderson, Jane Birkin, and Elsa Peretti have always been inspiration to look towards.

What’s your ideal getting-ready set-up – do you like to set a mood?

I love to be able to take my time, turn on some music, maybe some Lana Del Rey, Fiona Apple or Cowboy Junkies, and have a snack! It’s also nice to be able to catch up with my hair and make-up team and chat and laugh with my stylist.

When do you feel most beautiful?

I feel the most beautiful when someone tells me I look like a member of my family.

2026-05-18T11:51:29Z