Flights of Fann-cy

Fann Wong, has never been one to shy away from the limelight but her current role has her playing second fiddle to the new kid on the block: Her son! By Natalya Molok.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Fann Wong, has never been one to shy away from the limelight but her current role has her playing second fiddle to the new kid on the block: Her son! By Natalya Molok.

Tulle dress from Valentino. Earrings from Carrie K.
Tulle dress from Valentino. Earrings from Carrie K.

Fann Wong is nothing if not professional. As we prepare to take her portrait for the cover of our September issue, she breezes into the studio without a hair out of place. She’s also early, and that in itself reveals just how rock-solid her work ethic is. Still, at 45 years and after nearly three decades in the public eye, the multi-hyphenated talent is finally taking a breather from the spotlight. And it’s all thanks to her bundle of joy, two-year-old Zed Lee, who is the apple of his mama’s eye.

Fann, who is embracing motherhood wholeheartedly, beams with pride, “Before Zed, my life revolved around my work. Now it’s Zed.” Fann has been dedicating her every waking moment to the needs of her family since Zed’s birth, relishing in the various facets of parenting with actor-husband Christopher Lee. But with her career having taken a backseat, doesn’t she miss it? “Sometimes,” she admits, “but I’ve also learnt to appreciate things that I’ve often taken for granted.”

Despite the temporary hiatus, Fann remains one of Singapore’s most bankable celebrities. She’s followed by droves of women on social media (282,000 followers on Instagram at last count), all wanting to know the secret behind her enviable physique and porcelain complexion (which explains why Shiseido has signed her up to be the face for their skin immunity-boosting Ultimune range).

While Fann says it truly is down to genetics, “I’m lucky to have inherited my mother’s fair and delicate skin”, she also admits, “but life is fair ”. Fann reveals, “My skin isn’t easy to care for because it’s so reactive and sensitive. I’m especially prone to irritation and sensitivity when I’m flying due to the extreme climate changes.” As for looking so slim and youthful? Fann shares, “For me, exercise and diet are important, but having a rejuvenating massage or curling up with a good book is important, too. I try to focus on my health and diet by consuming plenty of fruit and water.”

More important for Fann these days though is making the most of her home life with Zed. “He’s growing so fast! I want to enjoy every moment I have with him – to see every milestone that he takes.”

Long wool dress from Preen by Thornton Bregazzi. Earrings from Hermès.
Long wool dress from Preen by Thornton Bregazzi. Earrings from Hermès.
Five Fann Favourites

An iconic beauty has become the face of an iconic brand. Fann, who’s a newly-minted Shiseido ambassador, shares, “Shiseido is a well-respected beauty brand and I’m truly honoured to be able to join its ranks.” Even if you don’t have a major beauty endorsement under your belt, you can still achieve a luminous complexion with Fann’s top five beauty tips:

1 Skincare. “I diligently apply my Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate morning and night. It helps strengthen my skin and boosts its immunity and energy.”

2 Water is a must. “I drink a lot of water. Your skin needs it. I also use the Vital Perfection White Revitalizing Emulsion by Shiseido to put moisture back.”

3 Keep it clean. “I always go to bed with clean hair and clean skin, and I make sure to change my pillowcase often.”

4 Supplements. “I need that vitamin goodness in my life! I also use sunscreen. Right now, it’s Shiseido’s Perfect UV Protector SPF50+ PA++++.”

5 Rest. “It’s impossible for me to get enough rest now, but I still try.”

Leather jacket and pants, from Bally. Top from Joseph. Necklace from Annelise Michaelson from net-a-porter.
Leather jacket and pants, from Bally. Top from Joseph. Necklace from Annelise Michaelson from net-a-porter.

'Before Zed, my life revolved around my work.
Work was always my priority. Now it’s Zed.'

More: shiseido