As the first Asian American woman to become an international star, Anna May Wong heroically fought stereotyping and racism throughout her career. Wong had a commanding presence at 5'7" (taller than most leading men) and knew how to move on screen, a skill that secured her roles in the 1932 Oscar-winning film "Shanghai Express" alongside Marlene Dietrich. Although the leading roles available to her were limited, Wong gained notoriety for her mind-blowing sense of style, earning her the title "World's Best-Dressed Woman" by The Mayfair Mannequin Society of New York in 1934.
In this 1930 studio portrait Wong shines in a beaded scarf and bracelet. But she doesn't let these beautiful accessories wear her. Her beauty still stands out with exaggerated makeup: giant lashes and bold thin brows that are usually a beauty no-no. Do you think you could pull of this starlet's look?
Moviepix
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Art by Raydene Salinas
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