The Liza Koshy 2.0 Takeover Is Here, and We're Ready for It

Liza Koshy has officially entered her "global movie star” era. That is to say, the multi-hyphenate is racking up a slew of major roles and noteworthy red carpet appearances to match. Following her appearance at Dior’s extravagant Pre-Fall show in Mumbai early this spring, Koshy touched down in New York on Monday for the U.S. premiere of her latest film, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. The actress voices Arcee—the first-ever live-action female transformer—in the latest installment of the hit action franchise, and for the occasion, she selected an equally metamorphic look, an origami-inspired set from Christopher Kane paired with jewels by Effy Jewelry, Idyl, and Alison Lou and Casadei heels. 

The Transformers premiere and crimson ensemble kick off what is sure to be a banner year for Koshy, whose 2023 film lineup includes the animated adventure Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken and the anticipated Netflix comedies Players and A Family Affair, the latter of which sees her starring opposite Nicole Kidman, Joey King, and Zac Efron. Koshy has seamlessly moved from one of the world’s most influential comedic digital creators to one of Hollywood’s most promising talents, planting her firmly on our radar. 

We caught up with Koshy before her big premiere to talk about her statement look, harnessing the gift of thrift, and transforming her career.

You voice Arcee in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. What excited you most about joining the iconic action franchise for this installment, and what can we expect from your character in this film?

Being approached to be involved in a project that is so globally beloved, such as the Transformers franchise, was so exciting to me, especially after understanding the vision of our genius director, Steven Caple Jr. He is a die-hard fan himself, so he understood what audiences not only wanted but needed in this film at this time by intentionally highlighting a cast inclusive of race, gender, and sexuality. There is something for all fans, both existing and new. I was most excited to hear that the superhero superbabe that is Arcee was featured heavily in this installment. 

Let’s talk about your overall fashion vision for the Transformers: Rise of the Beasts press tour. What did you want to convey with your looks?

My assignment was polished, classic, and in the color scheme of Arcee … and I understood it well.

Tell us about the look you selected for the film’s premiere in NYC.

This look really spoke to me because, first and foremost, the color red mirrored Arcee’s hot cherry finish. Also, this stunning collection by Christopher Kane was inspired by origami—the traditional Japanese art of transforming paper into different shapes and animals. Like the film, it married the idea of both animals and transformers. The look managed to capture the essence of the film and transformed me into the feminine force I was on the more male-dominated carpet.

What about the design of this look really stood out to you?

I really wanted to focus on finding a balance of masculine and feminine energy in my styling direction choices that not only paid homage to my character in the film but [also] allowed me to shine a light on where I am on my personal style journey. I instantly gravitated to the sharp edges and the construction of the bodice.

Take us through the direction for hair and makeup. Do you like to come to the table with ideas or leave them to your team? 

After conducting a poll in my family group chat, my friends group chat, my press group chat, and my glam group chat, we came to the decision that my hair and makeup should be kept simple to give the red-hot two-piece number the shine she deserves. My beast of a hairstylist, Castillo Bataille, rose to the occasion by delivering a simple slicked-back bun that forced me to take ibuprofen to withstand the stunning snatch for the night. He executed a classic look with subtle hints of Japanese cultural influence.

Is there anything you typically steer clear of on a red carpet?

Unmoisturized knees. They photograph beautifully when they’re hydrated and hydrated only. Other than that, no. No doors are ever closed for me. Remaining open to new ideas or approaches is key for a fashion evolution. 

How would you say your style has evolved in the last year or so? 

Two years ago, I made a pact with my credit card to not buy any brand-new clothes within my personal wardrobe. I’m proud to say that I’ve only failed a couple of times. In an attempt to single-handedly end fast fashion, I have harnessed the gift of thrift. I only shop and buy secondhand, vintage, and thrift, and I look and feel fantastic about my ’fits, my footwear, and my carbon footprint. 

Is there a part of the fashion industry that really excites you? 

Nontraditional, nonbinary, gender-fluid expression and design is now at the forefront of the industry and in the storefront of major retailers. As someone who feels most aligned in traditionally masculine wear, I love that we are furthering the conversation on gender norms and traditional beauty and style standards.

Tell us about what you have coming up post-Transformers. 

I feel like I am in a very transformational (pun intended) moment in my career, where I am being trusted to take all of the skills that I have learned through years spent as a creator and apply them as an actor. I am excited for the opportunity to tap into deeper comedic skills and explore my dramatic side. I’m stoked to lend my voice again in DreamWorks’ Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken, and I’m back to acting on the big screen (and your favorite streamers) with upcoming films titled A Family Affair, Cat Person, and Players. I was most recently cast in a dream role of mine, joining the epic all-female comedic ensemble in Kay Cannon’s My Ex-Friend’s Wedding alongside goddesses Amanda Seyfried, Ariana DeBose, Chloe Fineman, and Meg Stalter! 

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is in theaters June 9. 

Stylist: Jacqueline Zenere

Makeup Artist: Dom Della

Hairstylist: Castillo Bataille