Bella Thorne spent years preparing for her new role ahead of last night’s amfAR Gala Cannes, a youth ambassadorship with amfAR she counts as one of the most meaningful in her career. “It’s more than just a title to me,” she tells Vogue. “It’s a real opportunity to make a difference in the world, especially for young people who need support and guidance.” And while her title was minted earlier this year, this isn’t her amfAR gala, and was stunned at their event in Venice last year at studies the team shared with her. “One of them was that HIV is the third leading cause of death for women in their reproductive years,” she says. “That fact was astounding to me and made me realize that we have to do much more to help our generation understand the implications of not staying safe.”
Kelly Balch
Kelly Balch
Kelly Balch
Creating a more dynamic way of sharing health statistics like this inspired a different kind of Cannes film project. “We have produced six PSAs that will go live throughout the year, with one premiering in just a few hours at the amfAR Gala,” Thorne shares while in the midst of prepping with her hair and makeup team. “This new initiative for amfAR will help build awareness and educate younger generations like Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X about the mission of amfAR and how they can get involved.” Opulent events at Cannes hold real power for serious causes (last year’s amfAR Gala raised $17 million), and prep has a real purpose. “My looks always range from classic Old Hollywood to grungy sleek,” says Thorne. “For this trip, I was inspired by Cannes in the ’70s and ’80s, channeling some of the iconic styles from that era. This blend of vintage glamor and edgy sophistication reflects the spirit of amfAR and the event itself.”
As always, Thorne did things her way. “Bella is very particular about her skin and always preps it herself,” says makeup artist Alan Leal of simply adding “a touch of glow” on top of Thorne’s meticulous canvas “since she loves to sparkle and shine.” Hair stylist Felitia Grace used Balmain Hair products to create lived-in waves. “I began by sectioning it and using one-and-a-half-inch rollers,” Grace shares. “After setting the curls with a spritz of hairspray, I gently brushed them out to create a soft, voluminous texture.” Part of the balance was “steering away from a fully glamorous style,” Grace says, and simply ran her fingers through Thorne’s copper lengths to loosen things up. “We aimed for elegance and chicness while still reflecting Bella’s personality,” says stylist Kristina Askerova, who mixed Chopard jewels with a rainbow of looks from designers like Georges Hobeika, Laquan Smith, and Nina Ricci.
Kelly Balch
Kelly Balch
Kelly Balch
While her team buzzed around her, Thorne shared about who she hoped to see, like this year’s Cannes juror Greta Gerwig (“I love what she’s doing for women in film and women in all aspects”), what she was looking forward to (“I’m ready to celebrate and fundraise!”), and what tonight, and this new platform, really means to her. “As someone who has faced my own challenges, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner,” says Thorne. “This role allows me to be that person for so many others. I’m committed to advocating for all infectious diseases, education, and social justice—issues that are incredibly close to my heart. I want to use my voice to raise awareness and bring about real change. Empowering the next generation is at the core of what I hope to achieve. I want every young person to know that their voice matters, that they can speak up and make a difference. Creating inclusive and supportive communities where everyone feels valued and heard is a big part of my mission.”
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