Hoyeon’s Monaco Grand Prix Weekend Came With Speed, Style, and Louis Vuitton

Although Hoyeon had never attended the Monaco Grand Prix before, she arrived at this year’s race weekend with a role that placed her at the center of the spectacle. Ahead of Sunday’s competition, the actress unveiled the Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk on the starting grid, a fitting assignment for the house ambassador.

For the occasion, Hoyeon channeled the elegance of the French Riviera to debut the trophy, which ultimately went to Italian driver Kimi Antonelli. She exuded Mediterranean glamour in a peach princess seam gown paired with Louis Vuitton’s mesh “Romy” ballet slippers. But off-duty, she prefers a much more relaxed approach: “Sunglasses, a good sunscreen, and flip-flops are my summer essentials,” she admits.

To accessorize, Hoyeon chose Le Damier de Louis Vuitton rings in yellow gold and Color Blossom earrings from the maison’s fine jewelry collections—perhaps only outshone by the trophy trunk itself.

Created in Louis Vuitton’s storied Asnières workshop, the trunk—which the brand has created for the race since 2021 and for the first time as title partner this year—blends the maison’s savoir-faire with that of Monaco. It features the principality’s flag colors on a monogram canvas, with a “V” etched in white and red to symbolize “victory” and, of course, “Vuitton.”

The trophy trunk is just one expression of Louis Vuitton’s expanding presence in the world of motorsport. As part of the celebration, the maison unveiled immersive, Grand Prix-themed window displays at its Monaco stores—where a limited-edition collection of ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories was available to shop—and published an entire edition of its City Guide series dedicated to the principality.

Hoyeon, meanwhile, has developed her own connection to high-speed thrills through her work on-screen.

“I’m not an expert when it comes to cars, but I did most of my own driving stunts for my new film, Hope,” she tells ELLE. (The movie, which just premiered in Cannes, will open in theaters on September 6.) “I really enjoyed the speed and the sound of the engine, even though it was a little scary at first. The adrenaline rush I felt during filming is something I’ll never forget. I’d love the chance to do it again someday soon.”

Ahead, the actress talks summer style, sentimental wardrobe pieces, and the essentials she brought along for a weekend on the Côte d’Azur.

What trends are you loving—or avoiding—right now?

I don’t know if it’s a trend, but I love wearing white jeans lately, especially in the summer. I wouldn’t say there are any fashion styles I avoid. I’m pretty open to trying just about anything. For me, it’s more about wearing what feels right and what I feel comfortable in. Most days, I love wearing baggy jeans and oversize T-shirts because they’re comfortable and easy.

What’s one item in your wardrobe you’d never part with?

Probably my vintage leather jacket. I’ve had it for a long time, and it has been with me through many different moments in my life. It feels very personal to me, which is why it would be hard to replace or find another one that fits just right.

What’s on your Monaco packing list?

Sunglasses, a good sunscreen, and flip-flops are my summer essentials.

Have you attended a Grand Prix before?

No, this is my first time. What surprised me most was the energy. Watching on TV is exciting, but in person, you can really feel the speed and intensity. There is so much passion from the fans, and the atmosphere is very special. And of course, Monaco is very pretty.

What qualities do you admire most in F1 drivers?

Their focus and discipline. The pressure is so high, but they still have to make decisions in a fraction of a second. I really admire that level of dedication and mental strength.

What type of roles are you most excited to explore next?

I’m interested in roles that challenge me and surprise me. I love exploring the full range of human nature, so I’m especially drawn to characters that are different from anything I’ve played before. I’m always excited to try something new.

This interview has been edited and condensed.