Pieces of French fashion, jewellery and accessories from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries, which will go on display between June 26 and October 24 to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and France, have been loaned by the Musee des Arts Decoratifs. The museum has been called “Paris’ most comprehensive collection of historical French fashion”.

“International collaborations such as [this] speak volumes to the city’s rising status as an arts hub,” Mok told the Post in an interview.

“As an artist, I strongly support cross-field partnerships as it enhances cross-promotion and appreciation, bringing memorable experiences to a wider audience.

“Lending my voice to museum audio guides is meaningful to me as it enhances visitors’ experience in the museum and encourages them to spend more time with the works of art.”

Mok added she was “deeply inspired by masterpieces and the stories behind them”.

She said that if she was given the chance, she would be very interested in trying out “all of the magnificent dresses” but highlighted she was most intrigued by 18th-century to early 20th-century corsets.

“I have worn corsets before and they are trending now, but I wish I could feel how historical corsets from two centuries ago sculpt the body. The pannier, steel-hooped crinoline, and the bustle must also be fun to try on because they regulate our body movements in different ways,” she added.

Mok said she picked three exhibits to include in her audio guide: a whalebone stay – or corset – as it gave the body “the most beguiling shape” and a three-chained necklace made of gold and small enamelled plaques.

The third item was a dress designed by pioneer fashion designer Charles Frederick Worth which impressed Mok not only with the design but his entrepreneurial spirit, “which still resonates with the global fashion industry today”.

“I have visited the Musee des Arts Decoratifs Paris before. I know it by reputation as one of the best collections of fashion and jewellery in the world. I was mesmerised by its dazzling display of jewels,” Mok said.

“This exhibition is the most comprehensive collection of historical French fashion ever shown in Asia. I am excited to be part of it and help bring this unique exhibition and the captivating stories behind its pieces to local and international audiences,” she added.

She said the pieces reflected not only the history of French fashion, but also its evolution and impact on the global industry and how it had remained influential and inspired many contemporary designers.

Museum deputy director Daisy Yiyou Wang said that involving a celebrity could attract those who would not otherwise go to museums as people visiting art institutions worldwide were getting older.

“I visited several museums around the world, including some of the museums in Kyoto and Tokyo – popular destinations for a lot of Hongkongers, [involving celebrities] is a very common practice in Japan,” Wang said.

“Engaging people who can speak to a very wide range of audience, particularly younger audiences is very effective.

“I think [Karen Mok] speaks to a very broad range of visitors, internationally, locally, and to mainland Chinese visitors as well.

“She is a proud product of Hong Kong, right? So I think having a star and spokesperson of her stature and her cosmopolitan outlook, it’s great.”

Tickets for the exhibition are priced at HK$150 (US$19) for adults, while concessionary ones are available at HK$75. Tickets to the show also allow access to other exhibitions at the Palace Museum.