Indonesian star Raline Shah is no stranger to the spotlight. Best known as an actress and entrepreneur, she has spent over two decades in the public eye. From her modelling days in her late teens to gracing red carpets around the world, fashion has always been her chosen language of expression.
At this year’s Cannes Film Festival, Raline Shah attended a series of high-profile events, from the Red Sea Film Foundation’s 2026 “Women In Cinema” Gala to the premiere of Spanish filmmaker Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s latest project, El ser querido. For each appearance, she stunned in gowns by Indonesian designer Sapto Djojokartiko, paired with jewellery from Chopard, exuding a sense of soft, timeless glamour. Here, Raline speaks to ELLE Singapore about her look for the El ser querido premiere and her relationship with fashion.
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Tell us about the look you were going for.
"For this look, I wanted to channel the glamour of old Hollywood, but interpreted in a way that still felt modern and effortless today. We worked closely with Sapto Djojokartiko to create a custom look that balanced elegance, structure, and softness. For glam, we kept everything refined and timeless. Glowing skin, soft definition, and a sculpted look that felt cinematic without being overly theatrical.
For the hair, we referenced a sleek, polished silhouette with soft vintage influence. Very elegant and controlled, almost reminiscent of classic Hollywood portraiture but with a contemporary edge. I loved how it framed the face while still feeling clean and modern.
I was also very honoured to be wearing pieces by Chopard, whose jewellery always carries such extraordinary craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Their pieces have this beautiful ability to elevate a look without overpowering it. Refined, radiant, and incredibly special to wear on an occasion."
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What is your relationship with fashion?
"Fashion, to me, is a form of quiet expression. I’m drawn to pieces that feel confident with grace. Refined and intentional. I tend to gravitate toward silhouettes that are more conservative, but still stylish and powerful in their own way. I think what we wear communicates energy before we even speak, and I always want my choices to feel authentic, elegant, and effortless rather than trend-driven."
Favourite designer, dead or alive, and why?
"My favourite designer would probably be Alexander McQueen. There was always such emotion and storytelling in his work. His designs felt fearless yet incredibly romantic at the same time, almost like wearable art. I admire designers who create worlds, not just clothing, and he did that beautifully."
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Favourite collection from this season and why?
"This season, I really loved Bottega Veneta under Louise Trotter. There’s a sophistication and restraint to the collection that I found very compelling. It felt confident without needing excess, and I love when craftsmanship and silhouette speak louder than logos."
How was your time at Cannes Film Festival, who did you meet, what did you discover while there?
"I went to the premiere of El ser querido. It was intense, restrained, and beautifully human. A film about memory, distance, and the things left unsaid.
One of the things I love most about the Cannes Film Festival is discovering films from around the world and experiencing different cultures, emotions, and perspectives through cinema. It’s always a reminder of how powerful storytelling can be in connecting us all."
What can people look forward to from you in the near future?
"More involvement in cinema internationally and beyond acting."