Simu Liu to Attend CFDA Awards Show Tonight

Simu Liu is set to make his first appearance at the Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards show tonight in SoHo. Despite his experience on fashion's biggest nights, he seemed confident about the event's relaxed vibe. "I think everything's a little bit more chill than the Met Gala," he said during our conversation earlier today.

Liu has had an incredibly busy year, which included making his Broadway debut in Oh, Mary! from February to April and getting married back in October. Just hours before attending the CFDA Awards show, he was still feeling the effects of a long-haul flight from Los Angeles that morning. His packed schedule shows no signs of slowing down, as he prepares for the highly anticipated release of Avengers: Doomsday this December.

As an actor, Liu is well-versed in playing superheroes on screen. He reprises his role as Shang-Chi in the upcoming film, which marks a return to the big screen after his record-breaking debut in 2021. Marvel fans have been eagerly waiting for his next appearance, and he jokingly acknowledged the long hiatus, saying "It's been a long, long time."

Liu is currently unwinding at his hotel before taking on the night's events, clad in a robe and sitting barefoot on the sofa with a metallic device in hand. He was swiping it across his face, revealing an unblemished complexion that glows in the light.

Liu's grooming routine continues as he leans back into the chair, allowing Keating to work her magic on his hair. The actor's locks are a wavy, textured delight that requires regular maintenance to keep looking its best.

A room service trolley sits nearby, stocked with snacks and drinks that Liu can access at will. A plate of chicken tenders and fries is within easy reach, accompanied by a chilled Diet Coke - a beverage that seems to be his drink of choice for the evening.

Liu's hair has been a source of fascination throughout his life, particularly in his younger years when he envied the straight locks of his peers. However, as he grew older and began working with professional groomers, he discovered the benefits of salt sprays in enhancing his natural texture.

As a young adult from a working-class background, Liu admits that it took time for him to develop an appreciation for fashion. He credits his parents' modest purchasing habits for this slow start, but tonight he's a far cry from those humble beginnings as he prepares to attend the CFDA Awards on behalf of White Rabbit Trust.

The CFDA Awards are known for their Emerging Designers Table, an initiative that brings together industry leaders to mentor up-and-coming designers from underrepresented backgrounds. This year's table is being hosted by Jason Wu, a prominent figure in the fashion world.

Simu Liu is one of the beneficiaries of this program, having been dressed by Asian-Canadian designer Haoran Li for the evening's event. Li's brand, Private Policy, has created a custom look for Liu that showcases his unique style and flair.

The outfit itself is a striking ensemble featuring a matching set made from black silk jacquard woven with bamboo, paired with a silver wedding ring and a Rolex Batman GMT-Master II. The cropped trucker-style jacket, adorned with hand-knotted Chinese buttons, adds a touch of elegance to the overall look.

The choice of bamboo as a material is significant, according to Li, who explains that in Chinese culture it represents integrity and resilience. He notes that bamboo bends in the storm but never breaks, making it a powerful symbol for those navigating challenging situations.

Simu Liu's foray into promoting indie AAPI brands has been a deliberate choice, one that he doesn't regret making despite its potential consequences on his career.

This decision is reflective of his desire to use his platform to highlight underrepresented voices in the fashion industry, which he believes are often overlooked by mainstream audiences. By wearing clothing from these lesser-known labels, Liu aims to bring attention to the talented designers and artisans behind them.

As a prominent figure in Hollywood, Liu has chosen to take more control over his career, seeking opportunities that not only showcase his acting abilities but also allow him to promote the causes he cares about most, including supporting underrepresented communities.