Getting Ready With Golden Globes Nominee Jane Levy

The 78th annual Golden Globe Awards were…interesting. There were plenty of laughs (Amy Poehler and Tina Fey once again delivered as co-hosts), joyful and somber tears (Taylor Simone Ledward accepting the Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama award for her late husband Chadwick Boseman was a heart-shattering moment), and awkward technical difficulties (when the mute button strikes again!) to go around. And then, there was the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s glaring membership diversity issue, which, rightfully so, hung over the show like a gray cloud. Virtual award shows are tough. They lack the glitz, glamour, and prestige we’ve grown accustomed to all these years, but nevertheless, the show, and red carpet–worthy fashion, must go on. 

Speaking of red carpet–worthy fashion, first-time nominee Jane Levy, who tuned in from Canada, impressed in a dramatic look from Oscar de la Renta. With the help of stylist Tara Swennen, the Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist actress chose a navy silk faille–and-poppy hand-cut gown from the Pre-Spring 21 collection that wowed from every angle, paired with Vrai jewels and Jimmy Choo sandals. A smoky eye, a cat eye, and soft curls perfectly complemented the ensemble. Despite the gloomy Vancouver weather, it was a celebratory occasion for the 31-year-old and her NBC show, so we were thrilled when she agreed to document the exciting moment exclusively for Who What Wear. 

From the glam chair to the Zoom setup, see how Levy’s look came together! 

First things first, congratulations on your Golden Globes nomination! What do you love about working on a show like Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist? Any standout moments from season one?

I love acting, and learning new forms of expression—singing and dancing—has been so fulfilling and fun. In season one, there was an episode called "Zoey's Extraordinary Glitch” in which I performed all of the musical numbers. Through Zoey in that episode, we make the audience laugh, cry, swoon, and cringe! I especially love to make people cringe. Ha.

It’s safe to say the Golden Globes will look a little different this year. How are you planning to join the festivities from afar?

I am in Canada shooting the second season of our show. I rented a hotel room and had my boyfriend and my closest friends (in my pod) with me. I do wish we could have all been together at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, but I just feel fortunate to have been included.

What were some of the early conversations you and your stylist had around your Golden Globes look? What did you want to achieve?

Tara Swennen, my stylist, was texting me photos of dresses while I was on-set. There were so many stunning options, but we narrowed them down to a clean four since we would be internationally shipping back and forth.

You chose Oscar de la Renta for the event. What about this dress immediately caught your eye?

I mean, Oscar de la Renta? I bow down. This dress fit almost perfectly. We had to do very minimal alteration. I especially love the open back of the dress… and those bows?? I also love the colors blue and black together.

Did the fact that you are attending virtually influence the look you chose at all?

Yes and no. At first, I thought the shoulders of whatever dress I chose will be most important. But then, I thought I'd rather just choose the dress I feel most beautiful in.

Let’s talk about glam. How did you decide on your hair and makeup looks? Do you like to come to the table with ideas, or do you prefer to have your trusted team lead the way?

Caroline Dehner and Natalie Cosco do my hair and makeup on Zoey's. It was fun to dream up evening looks we could do together since I play a coder on the show and wear minimal makeup. We did a couple of test looks, and the fact that the Globes was virtual did influence what we eventually went with. I spoiled myself with a couple of new Hermès lipsticks recently, and I knew I wanted to wear their 54 Rose Nuit. It is matte but doesn't dry your lips. The color is soft and sexy. We went with a smoky cat eye because I'm a sucker for cat eyes.

When it comes to prepping your skin, what are some of your go-to products?

I get facials a lot. I love Lisa at The Skin Girls up here in Vancouver. Unfortunately, the best way to achieve beautiful skin, in my opinion, is drinking tons of water, exercising, not drinking alcohol (boo!), limited salt the night before being on camera, and getting tons of sleep. In terms of products, my favorite oil is Best Skin Ever ($31) from Living Libations. Their Frankincense smell is divine. I also use the skincare from Moon Juice. Their Plump Jelly ($58) and Cosmic Cream ($58) feel so nourishing and sit on my skin under makeup well. After the shower, I lather my body with Everyday Oil's Mainstay Blend ($14), which I can't get in Canada, so I traveled up here with four bottles!

What’s on your getting-ready playlist?

Ariana Grande! Prince, duh. I have "17” by Pink Sweat$ on repeat.

Photographer: Thomas McDonell

Stylist: Tara Swennen 

Hairstylist: Caroline Dehner 

Makeup Artist: Natalie Cosco