GRAZIA Exclusive: Get Ready With Chris Appleton, Inside His First amfAR Gala Cannes in Tom Ford
Few names are as synonymous with red carpet glam as Chris Appleton. Known for creating era-defining hairstyles for the likes of Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, and Dua Lipa, Appleton has long commanded the spotlight behind the scenes. But this year, the visionary stylist stepped into it — making his first appearance at the 2025 amfAR Gala Cannes, one of the most prestigious evenings during the Cannes Film Festival, which raises funds for life-saving AIDS research.
Dressed in Tom Ford, Appleton gave GRAZIA USA exclusive access to his Get Ready With Me routine, walking us through each step — flawless skin, signature hair, and every finishing touch in between.
Below, we follow Appleton through his night, from the calm before the glam to that final red carpet moment. This unforgettable night marks a new chapter for Appleton — one not just defined by the artistry he brings to others, but the confidence and story he's owning for himself. GRWM Chris Appleton x GRAZIA USA : amfAR Gala Cannes 2025 Setting the Scene Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: Let's set the scene. What was the vibe like getting ready for the amfAR Gala at Cannes? How did you spend the day leading up to the event?
CHRIS APPLETON: I had a great workout session; I have jetlag from traveling a lot, it's a great way to get the blood flowing. I took a dip in the ocean for a bit of cardio. I received a red carpet facial from Nilam Holmes and just tried to take in Cannes because it's been a few years since I have been here. Details Make the Look Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: You're wearing Tom Ford tonight — what drew you to this look, and how would you describe the overall vibe you were going for?
APPLETON: amFAR is such a big red carpet; it felt very classic and timeless. It's very old Hollywood-esque and I wanted to fit the vibe. I wanted to look back on these pics and feel like it was a classic look that's very me. I added details with these diamond cufflinks by Tom Ford. Grooming Essentials Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: Walk us through your GRWM routine — any signature skincare or grooming steps you never skip before a red carpet?
APPLETON: I love a good face mask like the LaMer face mask sheet; it tingles to wake skin up. I use my Dr. Diamond Metacin and LaMer moisturizer, and love the Upneeq Eye Drops to open up the eyes. I did have a pimple this morning, so my pimple patches came in clutch. The Signature Hair Moment Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: We know hair is your specialty — how did you approach your own hair styling for the Gala? Did you do it yourself or trust someone else with the finishing touch?
APPLETON: For my hair, I do it myself. I know the little tricks to make it look the way I want. I wanted my look to be signature Chris Appleton, which tends to be more platinum, but I wanted to be more natural, so I did a low-light blonde. Style in Motion Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: What's the one grooming product or hair tool that's an absolute must for your red carpet prep and why?
APPLETON: I always use my Color Wow Dream Coat because it won't let the moisture in to keep my hair from going flat. The Final Touches Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: There's always a moment where everything comes together — suit on, hair done, cologne spritzed. What was that final moment of transformation like for you today?
APPLETON: For me, the last finishing touches are the last spray of the hair. After that, everything feels like it goes back to place. Confidence on the Carpet CAP D'ANTIBES, FRANCE – MAY 22: Chris Appleton attends the amfAR gala Cannes 2025 presented by Chopard at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on May 22, 2025 in Cap d'Antibes, France. (Photo by Mike Marsland/WireImage); Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton
APPLETON: For whatever reason, it can always be a little anxious. It always feels a bit overwhelming. I am just grateful to be there, and it's exciting. Owning His Space CAP D'ANTIBES, FRANCE – MAY 22: Chris Appleton attends the amfAR Gala Cannes 2025 presented by Chopard at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on May 22, 2025 in Cap d'Antibes, France. (Photo by Ryan Emberley/amfAR/amfAR via Getty Images); Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: From styling celebs to being one yourself, what has this journey taught you about confidence, beauty, and owning your space?
APPLETON: I think there are so many times that I have felt like I have been put in a box. I get the 'You are just a hairstylist,' often. But I have always pushed, if someone says no, if I can't go in the front door, I will take the side door. I have never taken no for an answer, and don't think you are going to get a yes. And most times, you won't get a yes. The Big Moment Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: The amfAR Gala is such a powerful night for fashion and philanthropy. What does attending this event mean to you personally and professionally?
APPLETON: Attending this event is an evolution of me and my career, and really rewarding to be attending such a special event, showing how far I have come. About the amfAR Gala Cannes
Since 1993, the amfAR Gala Cannes has been a cornerstone of the Cannes Film Festival, drawing celebrities, philanthropists, and fashion leaders together for a night of live auctions, performances, and red carpet moments — all in the name of advancing HIV/AIDS research globally. The 2025 edition brought together stars from across the world, continuing the tradition of glamor paired with a powerful purpose.
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I am just grateful to be there, and it's exciting. Owning His Space CAP D'ANTIBES, FRANCE – MAY 22: Chris Appleton attends the amfAR Gala Cannes 2025 presented by Chopard at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on May 22, 2025 in Cap d'Antibes, France. (Photo by Ryan Emberley/amfAR/amfAR via Getty Images); Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: From styling celebs to being one yourself, what has this journey taught you about confidence, beauty, and owning your space? APPLETON: I think there are so many times that I have felt like I have been put in a box. I get the 'You are just a hairstylist,' often. But I have always pushed, if someone says no, if I can't go in the front door, I will take the side door. I have never taken no for an answer, and don't think you are going to get a yes. And most times, you won't get a yes. The Big Moment Photo courtesy of Chris Appleton GRAZIA: The amfAR Gala is such a powerful night for fashion and philanthropy. 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