Ice Queens: Chopard Ambassadors aespa Open Up About Cannes And Their Favourite Jewels
K-Pop sensation and Chopard ambassadors, aespa, made a big splash at the Cannes Film Festival this year. We talk to the quartet about their first ever experience on the iconic Cannes red carpet, their favourite jewellery pieces and their upcoming plans.
aespa members Winter, Giselle, Ning Ning and Karina at Chopard’s “Art Evening” in Cannes in May this year
Aespa
The K-Pop wave made it all the way to the Croisette this year, with all-girl pop group aespa making their first-ever appearance at the 76th Cannes Film Festival. As official sponsors of the festival Chopard has always had a big presence at Cannes—they have been responsible for crafting the prestigious Palme d’Or award since 1998, and in 2001 introduced the Trophée Chopard, an award honouring a breakthrough male and female film talents.
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But by bringing aespa to their first Cannes, Chopard truly created a memorable cross-cultural moment—where South Korean music stars met the glamorous red carpet royalty of the European and American film scene. The four members of aespa—Winter, Karina, Ning Ning and Giselle—are known for their futuristic, hyperpop music and for being style influencers in their own right. Signed as Chopard ambassadors in September last year, they have since starred in brand campaigns and graced the red carpet of the screening of La Passion De Dodin Bouffant decked out in stunning high jewellery from the brand. The women also attended Chopard’s art-themed traditional grand soirée, which included celebs like Kate Beckinsale, Song Kang-ho and featured iconic supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Helena Christensen and Natalia Vodianova modelling the collection. We speak to aespa on their first experience at Cannes and which jewellery pieces they wear every day.
How has it been like working with Chopard since you were first appointed ambassadors in September? What was your reaction when you were first approached?
Ning Ning: Firstly, we were truly honoured to be chosen as the ambassadors for Chopard. It has been both fun and inspiring working with Chopard, and the invitation to the Cannes Film Festival was amazing, especially walking the red carpet! When shooting with Chopard, I was lucky enough to try on pieces from the many different lines, but the most exciting moment for me was wearing the stunning high jewellery creations from the Red Carpet Collection in Cannes. I felt very strange but thrilled to work with many different designers and celebrities from around the world. It was a fantastic experience.
What is the one Chopard jewellery piece that you wear every day? Why?
Karina: I often wear pieces from the Happy Diamonds collection. I personally selected them—they were pieces I crushed on. You can wear them every day and I love how they can be mixed and matched with different outfits. They are very versatile and I always get a lot of compliments when I wear them. Another Chopard creation I love is the Happy Hearts necklace. Fans gifted one to me as a birthday present. The piece itself is absolutely fabulous but what I cherish most is the meaning behind it.
Winter: I often wear the Happy Hearts necklaces and bracelets that I love. I like the fact that the jewellery is both casual and precious. It's a classic piece that I can wear morning to night, whatever the occasion. With aespa you have travelled the world, from Cannes to upcoming stops in Indonesia, North and South America and Europe.
What are some of the most interesting places you have visited?
Karina: I believe every country has its own beauty, but I have a soft spot for Europe, and France in particular. I have a lot of beautiful and happy memories in Paris and Cannes. The most memorable moment was when I went to see the Eiffel Tower with Ning Ning; we enjoyed a glass of wine and the spectacular view, and it was fascinating. Also, every memory of Cannes comes back to me like a scene in a wonderful film. We walked the famous steps of the red carpet wearing magnificent Chopard jewellery and high jewellery creations; it was like a dream and a one-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Which aspect of the heritage, design and ethical practices of Chopard do you appreciate and enjoy?
Giselle: I got to know more about Chopard’s journey to sustainable luxury, and the 100 percent ethical gold they use in their watches and jewellery and their Lucent steel programme. I respect the initiatives and think it’s great that [them being] a family business is what made it possible. This makes me appreciate the values and authenticity of the Maison even more.
What does jewellery mean to you? Have you received any memorable jewellery gifts or even treated yourself to any jewellery or watches since you have achieved success?
Giselle: Jewellery is something I would say I have a passion for. There are many things I love, but jewellery is something I adore. For me, it is a mood booster—it just makes you feel good. Not only does it add an edge to your look but it also enhances your confidence. Jewellery is the perfect gift and a unique way to express your true feelings. You have modelled some of Chopard’s most iconic collections, including Happy Hearts and Precious Lace.
Do each of you have a favourite collection from Chopard? Which ones and why?
Ning Ning: I love the Happy Hearts collection. The pieces from this collection have a bright and young vibe, so it is very easy to style them with my daily items. The necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings are beautiful. When you wear them you experience a happy and good energy from them.
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