From child stardom to rock star and Dior muse, the American singer and actress speaks on redefining confidence, beauty and stepping into her truth

Born into Hollywood royalty, Willow Smith, the daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, knows what it is like to grow up under an unrelenting spotlight. Yet unlike many celebrity offspring, she has charted her own course. Over the past decade, Smith has built a body of work that treats pop stardom not as a fixed identity, but as a space for experimentation.

At nine, she burst onto the global stage with the undeniably catchy Whip My Hair, which went double platinum in the US, making her one of the youngest artists to reach that milestone. After signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation and touring with Justin Bieber, she appeared set on a conventional pop trajectory, but that path soon shifted.

In 2015, her debut album Ardipithecus marked a deliberate departure. She traded polished tween pop for something that was less defined: neo-soul and alternative R&B that felt closer to diary entries than chart ambitions. The 1st (2017) and Willow (2019) deepened that evolution, earning critical recognition for their vulnerability and willingness to leave edges exposed.

Smith’s most decisive transformation came with a turn to rock. Projects such as The Anxiety (with Tyler Cole) and the propulsive Lately I Feel Everything (2021) placed her within the pop-punk revival, reclaiming rock as a vehicle for anger, exhilaration, and emotional release.

Still, Smith resists labels. “I love a rebellious energy,” she says. “That spirit of individuality and freedom is something I really connect with.”

That instinct extends beyond music. Willow moves through fashion with similar ease, fronting campaigns for houses such as Dior and Chanel. Most recently, she became the face of Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil alongside ambassadors Jisoo and Anya Taylor-Joy.

What are your first make-up memories?

Probably watching my mum getting her make-up done on set or doing her own. She’s such a beautiful woman, it was wonderful seeing her going into this glamorous version of herself.

What did your mother teach you about beauty?

The biggest thing she has taught me about beauty is that your body is a temple. Aside from making the temple look good, it is very important to take care of it in the best way possible. Loving your body and yourself, putting good things into your body, eating things that are good for you. In a word, tending to the beautiful machine that is your body and being attentive to what it needs.

Who were your role models growing up?

The women in my family wanted me to see the art that Grace Jones has put out into the world because it’s been culturally moving. I got to meet her for the first time not too long ago when I opened for her at a Blue Note jazz festival. To be able to see her perform was a beautiful experience. Her power and energy are so strong, she’s a giant up there on that stage.

What does true confidence mean to you?

My definition for confidence has evolved over time. I’ve come to realise that confidence is personal and unique to each individual. What makes one person feel strong or empowered can be completely different for someone else, and I find that diversity both fascinating and beautiful. When you’re younger, you don’t always see the nuances in things. As I’ve grown up, I’ve come to appreciate the depth and diversity of beauty—the many shades and expressions it can take.

What is your definition of beauty?

Beauty is about expression. It’s about embracing all the different ways we show up in the world and celebrating that diversity.

Does your mood dictate your make-up style?

One hundred per cent. Not just my make-up, but the colours I gravitate towards and the overall vibe of my outfit. Make- up is a beautiful way that allows us to express ourselves and show the world what we think is beautiful.

Do you feel the same way about perfume?

I think it’s very intimate. Scent and aromas are a huge part of human life, the same way pheromones are central to the animal kingdom. If somebody likes sweet, woody or floral smells, I think it says a lot about who they are as a person and about how you feel in their presence.

Do you have any signature rituals you always return to?

Moisturising. I’m a sucker for it. Feeling nourished and hydrated is important to me.

What draws you to the Dior Addict line?

Honestly, it’s the spirit. Every time Jisoo, Anya, and I come together, it’s such a genuine, joyful experience. Being able to connect with them and have fun on set while working on the campaign has made it especially meaningful to me.

If you had to choose one shade that feels most like you, which would it be?

I love the black cherry shade, the deepest of the three finishes. It feels bold and expressive. It’s simple and versatile. Even with a fresh face, adding the lip oil creates a dewy, effortless look. It’s one of my favourite easy go-tos.

What does 2026 look like for you?

It’s about stepping further into my truth: my artistry, discipline and growth. I want to work harder and grow in compassion.

This story first appeared in the April 2026 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here