In this exclusive with Tatler Hong Kong, the powerful woman entrepreneur and mum-to-be answers questions about her personal style, her partner and what her ‘Bling Empire’ buddies are up to
Even if you don’t watch reality TV, there is no escaping how massively popular Netflix’s Bling Empire is. From its cast of colourful characters with their extravagant wealth, touching personal journeys and contrasting personalities—and make no mistake: they are big personalities indeed—the show, which premiered its third and latest season in October 2022, is everyone’s favourite guilty or not-so-guilty pleasure.
Even from the beginning of season one, Kelly Mi Li stood out as a fan favourite for her kindness and ambition. Before the show, she was already a successful serial entrepreneur and film producer.
Ahead of the birth of her child (around end of March!) Li talks to Tatler about fashion, Asian American designers and what’s next for Bling Empire.
Read more: ‘Bling Empire’ Stars Kane Lim and Kelly Mi Li Speak to Tatler About Netflix’s Successful Reality Show
Considering you’re a household name and a star on one of the biggest reality shows in the world, you’ve also been incredibly respectful of your partner and his privacy and anonymity. Has this been a tough balancing act, and why is it important to you?
On the surface, it may seem like a tough balancing act, but because we have such an open communication and respect for each other’s boundaries, it hasn’t been that difficult. He’s incredibly supportive of everything I do, but if he doesn’t feel comfortable being on the carpet with me, I completely understand that. I actually love the fact that he’s not in the industry or even on social media.
How would you describe your personal style? How is it different or similar to your maternity style?
I would say my personal style is classic and timeless with a modern twist. I love timeless pieces with a unique edge, like a classic blazer with an A-line dress that has unexpected details [that] incorporates modern elements like bold colours, or paired with statement accessories. I also love mixing high-end and affordable everyday pieces together. As for my maternity style, I would say it’s pretty similar except I lean more towards clothes that are versatile and comfortable. I’m definitely wearing way more flats than heels nowadays.
Who have been your muses or style influences?
My style muses are a mix of classic icons and really just my friends around me! I’m very lucky that I have a lot of friends with an amazing fashion sense, so I’m definitely not short of muses and am constantly inspired by the evolving fashion landscape around me.
Is there any style lesson that you’ve learnt from being on Bling Empire?
Everyone has their own personality and unique style on the show. Being on the show has definitely inspired me to take more risks, have fun with bold pieces and experiment with different statement accessories.
![‘[My partner] is incredibly supportive of everything I do’ (Photo: Raen Badua)](https://cdn.tatlerasia.com/tatlerasia/i/2023/03/10184226-6-3_600x750.jpg)