To paraphrase Clueless, we love a makeover, and that’s exactly what Forbes power lister Tory Burch did with her Gemini Link bag in Autumn/Winter 2016, reimagined for Cruise 2017, showcased here by Hollywood style icon Kate Bosworth, and shot by the multitalented writer, stylist and GRAZIA print edition cover photographer, Margaret Zhang. We spoke to Kate about the collaboration… 

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_8123_RT1
Bosworth with a bag from the Tory Burch Gemini Link collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang 

We’re eminently nosy. Tell us what you have in your handbag My iPhone, Glossier lip balm and stretch concealer, Chanel lipstick, Tory Burch sunglasses, wallet, small grey Moleskin notebook, Montblanc pen, Big Red gum and a small snack like almonds or an apple if I’m running around.

To have collaborated with Tory Burch on this project must mean you love the bag It has that cool, ’70s California vibe that I love so much but it’s also a classic. But what I love most is what it represents, which is the multiple roles we take on as powerful women. I’m an actress, a producer, a stepmother, a friend, a wife… we are all many things and I adore that this bag embodies that sentiment. 

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_8697_RT1
Kate Bosworth for Tory Burch Gemini Link bag collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang

Would you say that is a fundamental part of what drives the Tory Burch brand? Absolutely. It’s strong yet feminine, and she personally exudes exactly how every working woman wants to feel – put together and effortless. There is power in restraint and I love seeing that in her approach to design. 

What do you think is the secret behind a successful brand in this day and age? An interpretation of an individual and his or her tastes and expressions. I truly admire Tory and brand she’s built. She’s always true to herself and she never compromises her vision. She is powerful and strong and pure. All things I love. 

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_8502_RT1
Kate Bosworth for Tory Burch Gemini Link bag collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang

Speaking of things you love, tell us about your horse-riding background. We read that it helped you nail your first audition I have a deep affinity with horses. I’m most relaxed and happy when I’m riding. Some people do yoga or meditate to clear their mind, but I ride horses. One of the first times I rode, I was bucked off and landed hard. I was six years old. I dusted myself off and got right back on. I was determined. It’s now my approach to life.

Do you think that has anything to do with your zodiac sign? After all, it’s Tory Burch’s Gemini Link bag you’re modelling. Do you have two sides to your personality? I’m actually a Capricorn. I am a stubborn sea goat who knows exactly what she wants and works very hard to make her dreams a reality. But if I had to identify two sides, I’d say they were my professional and my home life. When I’m working or on-set I’m laser-focused in terms of what needs to be accomplished. When I’m at home, I’m relaxed and casual, and normally having fun with my husband. The key to a work-life balance is knowing when to wear what hat. 

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_8220_RT1
Kate Bosworth for Tory Burch Gemini Link collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang

On the subject of wearing things, how would you style the bag? With a great pair of flared blue jeans and a simple white T-shirt for day, and black leather pants with an oversized boyfriend sweater at night to make it cool and edgy but casual and easy. I feel the bag should speak for itself – I’m partial to the striped, rainbow version. It’s actually my favourite Tory Burch piece ever. It encapsulates California cool meets classical east coast. As I was raised equally on both coasts, this dual aesthetic happens to be the two sides to me. 

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_8734_RT1
Kate Bosworth for Tory Burch Gemini Link bag collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang

How did this project come about? Tory asked me to be part of the Gemini Link bag series and I jumped at the chance because, not only do I love and admire her, but I also appreciate what the bag represents. The Gemini Link is about duality in women.

Margaret Zhang is such a rising creative star. What was it like working with her? She’s brilliant. She knows exactly what she wants, but she directs in such an effortless, cool way. Her entire team are all female and we all felt very unified and empowered working together. And we all really wanted to take the vintage car home.

SHOP the Gemini Link collection now at Tory Burch and premium e-tailers such as Shopbop and Farfetch.

aaTORY_BURCH_KATE_BOSWORTH_MARGARET_ZHANG_7973_RT1
Kate Bosworth for Tory Burch Gemini Link collection
Credit: Margaret Zhang

Written by Olivia Phillips, deputy editor of GRAZIA Middle East