See how Padma Lakshmi is getting ready for the Golden Gala 2024

This past weekend, Golden House, a nonprofit that amplifies and supports AAPI voices, hosted its third annual Golden Gala in Los Angeles to honor 100 of the most influential changemakers in Asia Pacific Duong in culture and society in the past year. Onstage presentations were held for the organization’s special honorees, including Lucy Liu, who was awarded the Legend Award; sinister star Cynthia Erivo; fashion icon Hello Kitty; rap sensation Saweetie; and the fine dining priestess herself, Padma Lakshmi.

Lakshmi has cemented her iconic status with a decades-long and up-and-down career that has ranged from model to Emmy-nominated producer to food enthusiast to TV host. (with 20 seasons on “Top Chef” and currently hosting the Hulu series “Taste” the Nation”), and is a best-selling author. After this year’s Golden Gala, she can now add Culinary director to her lengthy resume. This culinary role for Lakshmi is a perfect match for the organization as she has long used her platform to expand her mind and taste buds. for different cultures and experiences, especially those within the AAPI community.

Tasked with creating the menu for the more than 600 guests attending the Gold Gala, Lakshmi worked closely with Executive Chef Vijay Kumar and his team behind the Michelin-starred hotspot Semma to evoke exclusively South Asian offerings that pay homage to her home state of Tamilnadu, India. For evening, Lakshmi wore a lemon yellow Cinq à Sept top and a skirt covered in sequins from neck to hem. Work with a stylist Adam Ballheimshe paired her bright, summery look with vibrant Cartier jewelry and bronze accessories that accented the evening’s gold theme.

Here, Lakshmi exclusively narrates In style all about her personal style and the importance of representation. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at how the TV host and foodie got ready for the Golden Gala.

How she relaxes before an event

“When I’m getting ready for a big event like this, I like to take my time. I’ll start with a massage or some body treatment, then turn on the music (“All Night Long ” by Mary Jane). The girls are on the playlist getting ready for the evening), maybe light a candle, etc. I like it to be as quiet as possible from the noise of the press on the carpet. “

Her charm

“Joeri Rouffa doing my hair, Beau Nelson is doing my makeup, and Shigeko Taylor did my nails. I want carefree, effortless hair that’s still shiny. I never like hairstyles that feel too perfect. Joeri is someone I work with a lot and he really understands my hair—we went for a simple, easy-to-do approach. Beau Nelson is also someone I’ve worked with for many years. For this look, it’s all about the eyes. We’re using Clinique’s chubby lipstick in Whole Lotta Honey. And we’re using Burgundy 11 from Sisley. Shigeko did a beautiful light pink/opaque manicure.”

Her style

“My style has become more and more simple over the years. I’m less uncomfortable with my appearance than when I first started. When you feel comfortable in your clothes and in your skin, you have more confidence.”

Why AAPI representation matters

“I wish I had an organization like Gold House to look up to growing up. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of anti-Asian hate and we often feel like we’re alone . But Gold House makes me feel that way.” feel like part of a stronger, more united community.”

Her look

“I’ve been working with my stylist, Adam Ballheim, for years and my mission for him was something that felt special but was comfortable and easy to move in. I love the color The brightness of the dress we chose – it’s from Cinq in September, and the shoes are by Stuart Weitzman. I like the simplicity of the outfit, it doesn’t feel too ‘messy’.

Her accessories

“I brought my own Indian jewelry to show off my Asian heritage. But then Cartier offered to dress me and I love Cartier so much. And the Panthère really helped tie the whole look together together.”

Who does she want to meet?

“I’ve long admired Lucy Liu, and I’m so excited to be honored with her tonight. But there were so many interesting people in attendance—from Saweetie, who was performing, to Michelle Yeoh, who I know a couple of times.” a little bit about my work there.” UN because she is a Goodwill Ambassador for Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe.”

Her after-party plans

“I was planning on stopping by the after-party to dance a little, but I can’t stay long because I have an early flight back to New York. We’re starting to take pictures for the party.” National flavor Monday’s cookbook that I’m really looking forward to. The cookbook will launch in fall 2025.”