Zhang Ziyi continued to step out of her comfort zone at the 2nd Beijing International Film Festival opening ceremony, held at the China National Convention Center this evening.

The Asian actress was always relied upon to fulfil the ‘princess’ gown quota on the red carpet, but her new direction is a more modern, less frou-frou approach.

On this occasion she donned an Alessandra Rich Spring 2012 dress.

Her pretty white Chantilly lace shirt dress was worn without the polka-dot tie and blue belt; instead Zhang Ziyi opted for a white belt with gold hardware.

A gold shoulder bag, red lips and wavy side-swept locks completed her look.

Whilst I love this dress and her new style, I wish she brought out the princess gown just this once.

I think this type of occasion always needs a bit of frou frou.

Credit: Style.com & Getty