In the FX series by Ryan Murphy, Chloë Sevigny takes on the role of C.Z. Guest, the prominent figure in WASP society whose glamorous party photographs once graced the pages of “W” magazine. This character portrayal marks a significant shift for Sevigny while also aligning seamlessly with her extensive career, characterized by roles in films that delve into New York’s social landscapes across different eras: from the excesses of the 1980s depicted in “American Psycho” and “The Last Days of Disco,” to the hedonistic nihilism of the ‘90s portrayed in “Kids” and “Party Monster,” and the contemporary Brooklyn scene in “Golden Exits.” Sevigny, a perennial figure in New York social circles since her teenage years in Darien, Connecticut, has traversed the globe attending various film festivals, awards ceremonies, and premieres, a realm she admits to only recently feeling truly comfortable in. Utilizing fashion as a transformative tool, she consciously crafts a timeless aesthetic for these high-profile moments, recognizing the enduring impact of such public appearances on her image as an actress.
Sevigny’s cinematic journey began remarkably with Larry Clark’s cult classic “Kids,” where neither she nor Rosario Dawson had any prior film credits. Fast forward seven years, and they found themselves as esteemed guests at a Versace Couture event in Paris, reminiscing on the pivotal role “Kids” played in launching their careers. Reflecting on her sartorial choices, Sevigny humorously notes the serendipity of seeing Emily Ratajkowski don the same dress she wore years ago. Subsequent projects, such as “Trees Lounge” under the direction of Steve Buscemi, further solidified Sevigny’s trajectory in the industry, with each step aligning harmoniously with her artistic vision.
Throughout her career, Sevigny’s collaborations with renowned auteurs have garnered critical acclaim, notably her Academy Award-nominated role in “Boys Don’t Cry,” where she embraced an old-school Hollywood glamour aesthetic. Her enduring partnership with designers like Alexander McQueen, exemplified by a sentimental dress reworn at the Met Gala, underscores the intersection of fashion and film in her narrative. Encounters with industry luminaries like Angelina Jolie at prestigious events have provided moments of mutual admiration and camaraderie, transcending the competitive nature of the entertainment world.
Sevigny’s immersion in New York’s underground scene, a milieu she revisited in “Party Monster,” offered a meta experience delving into familiar personas and narratives. Collaborations with iconic figures like Christian Bale in “American Psycho” provided insights into the multifaceted nature of performance and on-set dynamics. Additionally, her bonds with creative visionaries such as Sofia Coppola and Zoe Cassavetes underscore a shared journey navigating the complexities of the industry while embracing their respective identities.
Noteworthy events like the LACMA Art + Film Gala marked pivotal moments of self-assurance and empowerment for Sevigny, symbolized by her introduction to Alessandro Michele’s Gucci designs and a newfound confidence in Hollywood circles. Personal relationships, particularly with Natasha Lyonne, have served as pillars of support and shared artistic sensibilities, transcending decades of changing trends and industry dynamics. Encounters with industry peers like Nicole Kidman and Dita Von Teese have further enriched Sevigny’s creative tapestry, reflecting a deep appreciation for artistry and individuality in the entertainment realm.
As Sevigny’s career continues to evolve, her collaborations with emerging talents like Timothée Chalamet in “Bones and All” highlight a mutual commitment to pushing sartorial boundaries and artistic expression on the red carpet. Enduring friendships with figures like Michael Stipe underscore the enduring value of genuine connections and gestures of kindness in an industry often defined by its transient nature. Culminating in her recent wedding to gallery director Siniša Mačković, Sevigny’s journey remains a testament to her unwavering dedication to art, fashion, and personal growth, encapsulating a lifetime of cinematic and sartorial milestones.