Hong Kong rising actresses are stepping into the spotlight in late 2025, as ZTYLEZ brings together Dorothy Lau, Kuku So, and Vanora Hui for a fashion and culture feature that explores identity, creativity, and personal transformation through art and storytelling.
Light is always shifting, much like the rhythm of a city. In a fleeting moment, it slips through your fingers, revealing that what we see is only part of a more complex reality.
On Kuku: Double-breasted coat, LV Signet ring, Talisman ankle boots, all from Louis Vuitton.
On Vanora: Asymmetrical scarf jacket, pleated hem skirt, Avalon high boots, all from Louis Vuitton.
Through a prism, however, light reveals its true form. This feature places three emerging talents under that lens, highlighting the distinct colors and identities that define their journeys. These Hong Kong rising actresses are not searching for answers. Instead, they are illuminating overlooked possibilities through their work and personal evolution.
Vanora Hui: “I Can Be Playful Too”
Vanora Hui arrived early to the studio, her newly cropped hair paired with a crisp white shirt and black denim from Louis Vuitton, projecting a relaxed confidence.
Best known for her breakout role in “In Broad Daylight,” which earned her a Best New Performer nomination at the Hong Kong Film Awards, Hui is often seen as gentle and reserved. But she challenges that perception.
“I can be playful too,” she said, recalling her decision to leave an accounting program and pursue drama at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts despite family objections.
She described her previous path as structured but ultimately unfulfilling. “I realized I could not imagine spending decades in an office. That was not the life I wanted.”
At drama school, Hui began to explore different aspects of herself. She credits the experience with helping her break out of a reserved persona and embrace emotional complexity.
Inspired by Taiwanese writer Sanmao and her book “Stories of the Sahara,” Hui said she hopes to live with the same sense of freedom and courage.
“People are multidimensional,” she said. “What audiences see now is only part of who I am. I want to show more sides of myself.”
Among Hong Kong rising actresses, Hui represents a generation eager to redefine expectations and embrace change.
Dorothy Lau: Expanding the Definition of Mainstream
Dorothy Lau may not be a household name, but her voice is widely recognized across commercials in Hong Kong, from beverages to instant noodles.
A singer, stylist, director, and art director, Lau has built a multifaceted career that spans both on-screen and behind-the-scenes roles.
“I am not trying to go against the mainstream,” she said. “I just want to expand what mainstream means.”
Her journey began in fine arts, eventually leading her into music and creative direction. Lau said her diverse roles developed organically, starting with assistant art direction and evolving into styling and beyond.
She emphasized that working behind the scenes gave her a deeper appreciation for collaboration. “Every opportunity in front of the camera exists because of a team behind it,” she said.
Lau identifies most strongly as a singer and artist, roles that allow her to communicate ideas directly. Her recent single “i8,” which she fully produced, reflects her introspective and unconventional approach to creativity.
Looking ahead, she hopes to create a conceptual album that integrates music, visuals, and performance into a cohesive artistic experience.
Her perspective underscores how Hong Kong rising actresses and artists are reshaping creative boundaries across disciplines.
Kuku So: The Need to Be Seen
Kuku So entered the entertainment industry by chance, transitioning from behind-the-scenes work to acting after being introduced to a director for a music video project.
While financial considerations initially influenced her decision, So said acting became a way to understand life and human emotion.
She cited the film “Throw Down” directed by Johnnie To as a major influence, particularly its themes of resilience and hope.
“Even in difficult moments, someone can bring light into your life,” she said.
So often writes journals from her characters’ perspectives to deepen her understanding. In her recent film role, she portrayed a young woman from a troubled family seeking love and belonging.
“Every character shows me a different version of what love looks like,” she said. “At the core, everyone wants to be seen, needed, and loved.”
Her philosophy reflects a broader sentiment among Hong Kong rising actresses, who are using storytelling to explore emotional depth and social themes.
Different Paths, Shared Authenticity
Though their paths differ, the three artists share a commitment to authenticity and creative exploration.
Lau navigates multiple identities to express her artistic vision. So transforms emotional insight into performance. Hui breaks away from expectations to discover new dimensions of herself.
Together, they represent a shifting cultural landscape, where individuality and sincerity define success. Their work suggests that the future of storytelling lies not in uniformity, but in the richness of diverse perspectives.
Photography: tmt assisted by Hsiao and Wuhosun
Art Direction: tmt and Mimi Kong
Styling: Mimi Kong assisted by Yoanah Chan
Videography: Alvin Kong and Matt
Video Editing: Alvin Kong
Interview: Louyi Wong
Makeup: Chi Chi, Wendy Lee
Hair: Jean Tong
Wardrobe and accessories: Louis Vuitton
