For someone who’s strikingly beautiful, an Olympic gold medallist and part of one of Hong Kong’s most dynastic families, Guo Jingjing could have been as demanding on set as she wanted and no one would have batted an eye. However, the former athlete proves to be quite the antithesis. Remarkably gentle and low-key, the softly spoken Guo delights all who style, photograph and bejewel her. When stylist Grace Lam sits down with Guo to discuss her look for the cover shoot, Guo gives her free rein, noting only that she prefers not to look overly sexy.

As she’s being made up, a band of slick, brawny Cartier guards in black suits arrive with a treasure trove of gems for the day’s shoot. At one point, our stylist asks Guo to try a ring on every finger—but when it comes to slipping them off, she finds the most expensive one stuck. “Oh well, your husband [Kenneth Fok] will just have to buy that one for you for Christmas!” one team member jokes, and Guo breaks into laughter. She spends most of the time in the studio barefoot, and enjoys whiling away the time between shots with Lam as they discuss their sons and exchange baby tips. Even in the array of glamorous Lanvin and Elie Saab gowns, and bedecked with splendid Cartier jewels, Guo still manages to exude her brand of understated, modern elegance. Turn to p.248 in the November issue of Hong Kong Tatler for the full story.