How Fashion Helps Emma Watson Separate Herself from Hermione

Stylewatch Style News Now

08/17/2012 at 03:00 PM ET

Emma Watson CoverCourtesy The New York Times Style Magazine

Emma Watsonwas just 9 years old when she starred in the first Harry Potter film. Now, at 22 and with the franchise behind her, shes determined to create her own identity outside of her most famous role.

I was always either studying or filming, Watson tells T: The New York Times Style Magazinewhen asked why she waited a while to take on a major role afterPotter. I didnt have time to go off and do other films or other things to sort of show people that, Oh she is not just Hermione, she is an actress and she can go and do these other parts and roles.

The British star graces the cover of the Womens Fashion Fall 2012 issue of T to promote her first big project sans Hermione,The Perks of Being a Wallflower,out in September.

She also admits that along with unexpected movie choices, she uses fashion to distinguish herself from Hermione. Watson explains that she decided to take on beauty and fashion campaigns (including her LancmeandBurberrygigs) to further differentiate ! herself from her brainiac character.

Emma WatsonCourtesy The New York Times Style Magazine

And it seems the starlet has quieted the naysayers in the fashion world, too: she continually nabs spots on best dressed lists (just flash back to thatValentino mini she wore to the 2012 BAFTAs)and in T, brings to lifea Ralph Lauren menswear-inspired ensemble (top) and a dramatic, Twiggy-esque beauty look (bottom).

For more of Watsons interview and photo shoot, click over to the NYTimes.com or pick up the issue, on newsstands this weekend. Tell us: Do you think Watson has done a good job of creating her own identity?

Jennifer Cress

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