Keri Russell Ditches Red Carpet Glam for Astronaut-Inspired Casual Style

Actress Keri Russell prefers comfort over couture. The star of Netflix‘s The Diplomat made this clear in a recent interview. She revealed her everyday style is inspired by a classic film character.

Russell spoke with PEOPLE magazine about her fashion philosophy. Her partner, Matthew Rhys, playfully compares her look to a famous astronaut. This preference marks a sharp contrast to her character’s powerful on-screen wardrobe.

From Diplomatic Dresses to Sam Shepard’s Jacket

Russell is known for playing Kate Wyler, a diplomat who wears elegant dresses and sharp suits. Off-screen, her approach is completely different. She actively avoids restrictive formal wear.

“I don’t feel powerful in a sequined dress,” Russell told PEOPLE. She explained she values feeling cool and comfortable instead. For years, her uniform was a specific leather jacket and chinos.

This consistent look sparked a recurring joke from her partner. Matthew Rhys greets her by referencing Sam Shepard’s role in The Right Stuff. Russell embraces the comparison to test pilot Chuck Yeager.

Why Comfort Wins Over Red Carpet Struggles

The actress highlighted the hidden struggles of glamorous events. She described times when traveling alone made it impossible to undo a complicated dress. This practical hurdle solidifies her love for easy, functional clothing.

Russell shared a funny story about show creator Debora Cahn. After a long Washington D.C. event, Cahn knocked on her hotel door late at night. She needed help getting out of her own intricate gown.

The anecdote underscores Russell’s point about real-world comfort. She would rather channel a practical astronaut than endure fashion discomfort. This mindset resonates with many who prioritize ease in their daily lives.

Keri Russell’s casual style choice is a deliberate rejection of red carpet norms. It champions practicality and personal comfort above all else. Her astronaut-inspired look proves powerful style doesn’t require sequins.

Info at your fingertips

What does Keri Russell’s character on *The Diplomat* wear?

On the show, Keri Russell plays Kate Wyler. Her character is known for wearing strong, elegant suits and formal dresses. This style projects authority and diplomacy in her political role.

Who does Matthew Rhys compare Keri Russell’s style to?

He compares her frequent outfit of a leather jacket and chinos to Sam Shepard’s role. Specifically, he references Shepard playing astronaut Chuck Yeager in the 1983 film *The Right Stuff*.

Why does Keri Russell avoid sequined dresses?

She states she does not feel powerful in them. Russell prefers clothing that makes her feel cool and comfortable. She finds restrictive formal wear impractical for real-life situations.

What was the funny story about Debora Cahn?

After a formal dinner, Cahn knocked on Russell’s hotel door late at night. The *Diplomat* creator was stuck and couldn’t remove her own complicated gown. Russell used the story to highlight the hassle of formal wear.

Where did Keri Russell discuss her personal style?

She discussed her fashion preferences in an interview with PEOPLE magazine. The conversation highlighted the contrast between her on-screen and off-screen wardrobe choices. The interview was published recently.