Forlani grew up in London, and by the time she hit her tweens, she was serious about acting. After she begged her parents relentlessly, they enrolled her in the Arts Educational School, London’s top tier for performer wannabes. Early auditions yielded bit parts until Forlani landed a recurring role on the British TV series Press Gang. At 19, she headed to L.A. “I hit the tarmac and felt like I went into Technicolor,” she has said of those days.

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Skirt: J.Mendel silk chiffon skirt with grosgrain belt, $2,250; 800-563-6335 for stores

Vagabond lifestyle aside, acting is what feels right to Forlani. “I’ve worked solidly for 20 years. I feel lucky that I’ve never had to have another job,” she says. Not that she hasn’t given some thought to her options. “Oh, God, there’s lots of good jobs out there. I’d love to paint, I’d love to be a doctor, an archaeologist, an inventor . . .” She trails off, then sums up wryly, “What I would love to do and what I’m capable of doing are two different things. I mean, I’d love to play Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, but it’s too late for that, I’m afraid.” Too late for another turn as a -girlfriend tinged with death? “Yes, darling, it is.”

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Pants: Calvin Klein Collection silk crepe pants, $2,295; 212-292-9000

Bangle: Max Azria wood bangle, $68; 888-636-2224 for stores

Top: Callula Lillibelle poly blend top, $242; Studio Soho, 432-682-5877

Pants: Calvin Klein Collection silk pants, $2,295; 212-292-9000

Necklace: Vhernier 18k rose-gold and jet necklace, price on request; 305-445-9356