Zhang Yuxi. Photographer: Xin La.
In the scorching August heat of Beijing, sunlight streams through the studio’s floor-to-ceiling windows, casting Zhang Yuxi’s shadow on a white wall. Her presence, captured by the camera, exudes a relaxed elegance—reflecting her innate sense of beauty. A swipe of blush, a touch of lipstick, and different versions of Zhang Yuxi, from fresh to avant-garde, spring to life before us.
Haute couture dress, MATICEVSKI. Overcoat, FERRAGAMO. Boots, R13. Gloves/belt, ONEGU.
With a sharp eye, curiosity, and sensitivity, Zhang Yuxi transitions effortlessly from role to role. She works passionately, lives fully, and cherishes both her professional and personal moments. She allows herself small indulgences but stays grounded in the present. While she acknowledges life’s big questions, she knows not every issue needs immediate resolution. Instead of letting uncertainty bring anxiety, she believes a rich, full heart is key to embracing the world.
Haute couture dress, MATICEVSKI. Overcoat, FERRAGAMO. Boots, R13. Gloves/belt, ONEGU.
Filmmaking is a long and detailed process—reading scripts, shooting, post-production, and promotion—all requiring patience. As “Soul Land 2” enters its promotion phase, fans eagerly await Zhang Yuxi’s portrayal of “Xiao Wu.”
Haute couture dress, MATICEVSKI. Overcoat, FERRAGAMO. Boots, R13. Gloves/belt, ONEGU.
Xiao Wu is a character with high expectations and immense popularity, but Zhang Yuxi holds herself to even higher standards. “Xiao Wu is simple yet fiercely determined. She protects Tang San through countless challenges, and her courage resonates deeply with me,” Zhang Yuxi explains. Xiao Wu’s fearless spirit mirrors Zhang’s approach to life—always moving forward, stopping only when exhausted. “I’m constantly on the go,” she adds.
Denim jumpsuit/leather jacket, ZIMMERMANN. Bra/ earrings, TORYBURCH. Boots, JIMMYCHOO.
At every stage of her life, Zhang Yuxi reminds herself to focus on her path. Often labeled as ambitious, she frequently faces the question, “Isn’t it tiring to push so hard in your career?” Her answer is sincere: “As long as I have the energy, I’ll give it my all.” Instead of focusing on fatigue, she sums it up simply: “I’m used to it.”
Denim jumpsuit/leather jacket, ZIMMERMANN. Bra/ earrings, TORYBURCH. Boots, JIMMYCHOO.
“My drive is strong, but ‘ambition’ is a thing of the past,” she reflects. “When ambition dominates, it leads to obsession and conflict. Now, I just focus on doing my best in the moment. Fewer regrets mean the best outcome for me. If you concentrate too much on results, you’ll realize that much is beyond your control—the best memories are made in the present.”
Fur coat/jeans/heels, DSQUARED2. Tube top, ONEGU. Accessory, VINTAGE.
When talking about “living in the moment,” it’s clear Zhang Yuxi is someone who acts on her ideas. She doesn’t let fear or anxiety stop her from starting. “If I want to learn to dance tomorrow, I’ll sign up for a class after work—even if I don’t love it or find it hard.” Her secret? Taking action. Fear and discomfort may be present, but with each step, she gains experience. Eventually, quantity turns into quality. “Avoiding problems doesn’t solve them,” she says. “When you look back after some time, you’ll be grateful you acted.”
Fur coat/jeans/heels, DSQUARED2. Tube top, ONEGU. Accessory, VINTAGE.
From her early days as a model to now, Zhang Yuxi has consistently updated her social media, and her popularity has grown over time. “Persistence is important. Whether it’s updating social media or any other habit, it’s about accumulation. Once you’ve built enough, you’ll get noticed.” Hesitation leads to feeling powerless, but taking action brings results. “If you have a clear goal, that’s a bonus,” she adds. For her, it’s okay not to get things right the first time, as long as you keep trying.
Fur coat/jeans/heels, DSQUARED2. Tube top, ONEGU. Accessory, VINTAGE.
Zhang Yuxi believes that anything she sincerely pursues and works toward will naturally come to fruition. In a world filled with phrases like “lie down” or “anti-rat race,” she remains passionately driven. Her lack of inner conflict propels her forward, and her focus on goals keeps her motivated. She’s faced hardships and spent long nights in self-reflection. But each morning, she’s ready to face life with optimism. For her, the perfect day is one where she gets to do what she loves—that’s her version of freedom. Whether working on a project, learning something new, or relaxing with cartoons, she embraces each moment fully.
Vest and pants, CHENPENG. Baseball cap and smoking jacket, DSQUARED2. Boots, BOTH.
As the interview progresses, it’s easy to see why Zhang Yuxi is so beloved. She’s like a fire, drawing people in with her warmth and energy. When asked about her connection with fans, she smiles and says, “Everyone has their own personality and communication style. It’s wonderful when people find a balance and are drawn to each other. I’m grateful for those who support me, and I hope to bring positivity and happiness in return.”
Vest and pants, CHENPENG. Baseball cap and smoking jacket, DSQUARED2. Boots, BOTH.
Looking toward the future or reflecting on the past? For Zhang Yuxi, the answer is simple: focus on the present. The future holds surprises, but what matters is today, this moment. Leave the actions to the present and let time take care of the results.
Red coat, vest, and pants, CHENPENG. Baseball cap and smoking jacket, DSQUARED2. Boots, BOTH.
Producer: Zhang Nan.
Photographer: Xin La.
Creative & Styling: Sun Zheng.
Makeup: Yin Shiwen.
Hair: Jun Fei.
Modeling: Gao Qian.
Writer: Zhang Yunqi @estheryunki.
PR: Firebird PR Agency @firebirdpragency.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
