Bill Nighy’s practical rules for looking sharp and chic | The Sunday Times Style

Actor and style icon Bill Nighy has a very clear set of rules when it comes to dressing. We sat down with the cover star of our latest issue to talk all things menswear and style: which three items of clothing should be in every man's wardrobe? Which fashion trend does he always avoid? Is a trainer ever acceptable with a suit? These are his dos and don'ts
Interview by Sarah Barnes
DOP: Leo Element
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[@jenniferclyde8911]

“I couldn’t operate in those kind of trousers” 😂 that describes most of my life

[@brentl.vaneaton6901]

Jethro seem to be OK with trousers of the classical

[@frankh.2669]

He wouldn't approve of my style, but I still loved listening to him. There's nothing like this typically British humorous undertone, and few people can deliver it like him. Greatest respect, Mr Nighy!

[@lilyq2302]

He lives in my area - and whenever i see him he’s always so well dressed its amazing

[@jameskrell4392]

Whats even more amazing is that not many years ago most people wouldn’t go out of their house unless they were well dressed.

[@fc4660]

I can attest that Bill is immaculately dressed, having stood next to him at St John’s Wood tube station.

[@joystudiokimmayberry]

I didn't think I could appreciate Bill Nighy any more than I already did, but I love him infinitely more after watching this. Exquisite.

[@KathrynKinsel]

I never knew how much I loved this man until now. He's my new movie crush and my hero. Thank you, Bill Nighy!

[@amazingandrea9983]

You're new to the club. Mr. Nighy had me at "I feel it in my fingers..." Swoooooning in Canada!

[@litlredhen]

​@amazingandrea9983 Same! I don't think I'd heard of him before Love Actually, & he was just so cool in that role -- loved the Billy Mack character --- and of course he excelled at just about every other role, as I later found out. There used to be a compilation of clips from many of his movies (incl. "Girl in the Cafe", being my other favorite), & it was set to ZZ Top's "Sharp Dressed Man" -- it was just so wonderful -- but it seems to have disappeared from KZbin, sadly. Maybe some kind of copyright issue, not sure. Wish I had downloaded it.

[@milkshake3350]

Absolutely love Bill Nighy, he is such a stylish man and I have to say my dear husband has a similar wardrobe. Not enough pride taken in ones appearance these days which is such a shame.

[@drjthornley]

Man at Primark. Help. So much of it about.

[@carolclark1406]

Love that he takes his 'look' very seriously, just a gem. There's posh!

[@markjonz]

Dressing well is the new rebellion. Bill’s suit looks great, soft tailored and well fitting. He’s ready for an adventure like Cary Grant in North by Northwest.

[@maryokeefe5351]

Best suit ever!

[@cool2rule2]

I love his easy elegance - just look at that soft shirt collar and asymmetrical tie. Lovely.

[@lincoln3x7]

un buttoned button down, very straight laced without giving two Fs

[@jimmeven1120]

I think that's what they call sprezzatura. Hard to get away with, it's dangerously close to dressing-in-the-dark style.

[@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293]

I remember speaking with Bill near Burlington Arcade whilst out shopping years ago and all I could stare at as he spoke was his INCREDIBLE (seriously, I mean it) skin. I was almost stunned into speechlessness. Beautiful skin...in person, in sharp midday sun. THAT'S great skin.

[@TheLearningLounge]

He made me smile. Not sure if he was serious, or having us all on. We'll never know (unless we are his close friends that is).

[@adoculos4521]

I saw him in Pimlico last summer. He was wearing a polo shirt and shorts but it was at least 80°. He looked so ordinary but I am a great fan though.

[@EugeneONeill-pf5bj]

Absolutely love Bill. He was phenomenal in “Valkyrie.” Proud to dress as he says. Brooks Brothers, Oxford heavy cotton shirts, Crest ties, French cuffs on occasion with Bengal stripes, heavy starch. Classic dress never goes out of style.

[@JC-sb2wu]

How would you describe the collar of the shirt he is wearing in this video? It’s hard to find Oxford shirts without a button down collar. Thanks

[@robertmuscat167]

@@JC-sb2wu That’s a long point collar.

[@mirazusta2002]

Bill Nighy, the very embodyment of British style and class, a true gentleman on and off screen. Great actor, by the way.

[@nancyblackett8777]

The epitome of understated elegance.

[@suffragettesoul2687]

Perfectly said!

[@shankarbalan3813]

A wonderful actor. And clearly one of the last of the old school. I love his style and elegance. That era is long past. We inhabit the world comprised of athleisure and in a way, while these clothes are comfortable, they can never match the class of a well cut Navy Blazer and Grey Worsted or Flannel trousers, a pale blue shirt and a nice cravat worn with a plain pair of matte black oxford brogues.

[@andrewgenner2613]

The thing is, well cut suits that actually fit (not the Daniel Craig as Bond sausage skin look) are in fact very comfortable.

[@kimc8764]

I wholeheartedly agree with him about leggings.

[@grzegorzmucha4120]

It's great to hear this type of advice from my favorite English actor. Thank you.

[@nickpage2949]

Please do more of these Bill.

[@jezzacc4241]

Brilliant 😅. Tan shoes with a light blue suit, "give it up" 100 per cent onboard with Mr Nighy on this. Too many men think this a good look. It isn't.

[@donaldcook3112]

@@jezzacc4241. . . The very most men know only about , what I describe as , er , ‘ mirror fashion ‘. If they see it all around … “ Well , it must be what I need to be ‘in’ ‘. As someone once said : “ There is NO accounting for taste “. How true .

[@ritahorvath8207]

I always loved him. Now I love him even more . 👖

[@Cactina]

LE--GENDDDDDD. Thank you Sunday Times Style.

[@SuperBigqueen]

He is a true Icon of style ❤❤love Him

[@ryansupak3639]

I turned 45 this year - and even though I’m in reasonably-good physical shape and even though nobody said anything - it dawned on me a few months ago that I shouldn’t wear t-shirts and jeans anymore in public.

[@amazingandrea9983]

I read somewhere lately that grown men now dress like 6-year olds. TRUE! Remember ZZ Top, Gentlemen....'every girl crazy for a sharp dressed man!' YUM.

[@suffragettesoul2687]

I felt in love with him when I stumbled on the movie The Girl in the Caffe! Then I watched Page Eight! Then one by one others! Just to hear his voice!

[@cheyennebrennan966]

When you realise that you, a 26 year old woman, have virtually the same fashion sense as a 75 year old man! 😂😂 But truly, he's absolutely GORGEOUS and I adore him. ❤❤

[@stuartmartin3408]

That was way too short 😊

[@dejavu011]

He's so English, I love it

[@milkshake3350]

Hear hear!

[@scotsam7590]

Mr. Nighy. The epitome of style. And he's spot on about leggings and about trainers with suits (for men or women). xoxo

[@richardamos3173]

As I get older I'm definitely heading in the Nighy direction for style

[@agalIam]

the most astounding actor! watch him in 'page eight', so remarkable

[@michelecarrig3727]

Attention all men--listen, take heed and inspiration.

[@paddyotoole2058]

Hardly. Cardigans? Nope. I definitely won’t be getting on that train. If I was some sort of male feminist luvvie perhaps I would. Also he buys Japanese raw denim jeans and doesn’t even know how to properly break them in or take care of them. He’s right about never wearing trainers or tan shoes with a formal suit, but apart from that it’s just some crusty old bloke caught in a time warp spouting off. Just because you choose to wear a suit all the time does not mean you then become some sort of sartorial authority. Also take a close look at his shirt collar in this vid…….sloppy.

[@milkshake3350]

Chill paddy, chill.

[@jimmeven1120]

@@paddyotoole2058 It's only sloppy if you're an ordinary Joe. When you're a star it's called sprezzatura.

[@hugh-johnfleming289]

Me? 'Sixty-something' years of age and still in reasonable trim, though rather hard to fit because of my NFL stature; 6'4" 240 lbs. At some point in my mid twenties I'd realized I look foolish in blue jeans and T-shirts. Dressing well is a bit of work and well worth the investment and effort. Good shoes last a long time. It will also improve your posture and public humor. A strong first impression is absolutely priceless...

[@karinashubaly1981]

Yes, I am in my 60’s as well. There is no reason to not dress well. I am an older goth who loves dressing up in everyday life. I believe one can dress well into their 80’s. My Italian leather boots are so worth it.

[@maryjones5710]

I found a Francois jacket and waistcoat made in New Zealand by arrangement with Francoise et Cie, Saville Row, for 20 dollars. I watched several 'The Rake' video's and got the courage to wear them today. Given that I am a 5,7 and 62 yr old lady, I think I pulled it off. The young gents in this University town were green with envy and some ladies gave me big smiles. Oh the older chaps also gave me delighted smiles and there were many Farmers for some reason, who also couldn't help but look. The farmers were all jacket less but had lovely jumpers, not too long and very nice trousers. Tight pants on men, should stay way back in the medieval era, how can they stand not having a decent pocket, for those frequent necessary adjustments. Actually my ensemble, not a tweed, is a sort of striped tweedish brown, so technically I shouldn't have worn it in the City, what a bumpkin. I got a Vintage cable knit, white sheepwool jumper made for Ballynahowan, Connemara Marble Shop today, for 6 dollars, in perfect condition, so I know I can survive a winter being inordinately close to Antarctica, once again. Lovely to see you Bill, gorgeous as ever.

[@pokachan3451]

what a delightful post!

[@michaelgibson4705]

Re Bill’s comments on tight fitting trousers and suits CC this to Rishi Sunak

[@ninjadudeofficial]

and bloody short trousers.

[@ralphmackay6635]

Ironic mod dressing. I like it. The ironic aspect is perhaps the more difficult part to achieve. That may come from character. I stand with Mr. Nighy on this (and his opinion on skinny trousers.) Though being a retired librarian/bookseller, tweeds, corduroy and such, I would have to update my wardrobe to fit into the ironic mod mode.

[@shannonmccarty7930]

He is the thinking woman's bit of crumpet! 🥰

[@stephenelder2783]

Mod style is 2nd to none 👌

[@rosalindbarbier7670]

Delighted to hear about your trousers. Please can you share your opinion on the ideal female wardrobe... I'm ready to throw away my leggings and skinny jeans... But what do you advise instead????

[@Archer335]

Look back on history, and see what you like - maybe find some good books on it to acquire a broad perspective and make your choices. The 1940s and 1950s was a nice period. In America, elegance - true elegance - crashed and burned in the 1970s. The 1960s was the significant transition period leading to that. Also, please keep in mind that truly well-dressed people are very rare these days. Most people look like they should be cleaning their home or going to or coming from a gym. Good luck.

[@rosalindbarbier7670]

@@Archer335 Thanks for your reply. I love vintage clothes. You have inspired me to smarten up my game!!

[@Archer335]

@@rosalindbarbier7670, Excellent.

[@anabolic_red]

I met Bill when I was working the doors of Scarfes bar in Holborn about 7 years ago. True gentleman and the best dressed guy in the room. As down to earth as they come.

[@nigelgreen9369]

Without intentionally appearing weird - I think I would really enjoy being dressed by "The Bill", as I like to call him. I learned a lot ;)

[@arlenehutchinson9259]

Love that tie, the colour is amazing ❤

[@sherrieray3360]

Everyone should have at least one Bill Nighy, because you are always in fashion❤️

[@robertmuscat167]

Bill Nighy is a style icon. 40 years ago, I worked for a Swedish gentleman who always wore a simple, nice fitting navy blue suit. And he looked great ALL the time. In fact, I can’t recall ever seeing him in anything else. I wish Bill would do more of these. Simple advice.

[@cinnamon6248]

i LOVE him i wish this was longer 😢 hope i see him out and about in london soon

[@ninjadudeofficial]

Bill Nighy talking about the real mccoys love that. Saw his article last year for, I think it was the anthology or something like that? Can't really remember, but they made him a lovely navy bespoke suit. Shame these sorts of things are too expensive for a lot of people to justify, but if you've got the cash I don't think there's any real excuse not to have one or two bespoke suits; you'll wear it at some point.

[@jenbell9823]

Charlie Watt and Bill. Real suit men.

[@randymorash7013]

The late Leonard Cohen, as well. Cohen's family was in the garment trade. Cary Grant seemed to never look bad, or David Niven. People grounded in another era.

[@benjackson103]

I simply love this

[@greentombdive]

As usual, Nighy, refreshingly, is a right Bill.. However, when he said “.. dark brown loafers .. “ I had to rescue my taste buds and make a pot of VERY strong tea. Oh, yes, thanks to Bill, and subbed.

[@rm01042]

Sound, 'take it or leave it' advice, elegantly enhanced by the left hand flipping the bird

[@yorkshiremike5083]

See him walking around London and you'll instantly notice his impeccable dress sense, sharply followed by your own lack of taste when compared. 👍

[@NichaelCramer]

Any instance of Bill Nighy waxing poetic about men’s style or fashion should reference his role in the excellent “Sometimes, Always, Never”. (Bonus points if you can correctly identity the connection between the title of the movie and the subject of this video.)

[@Pedro_Larroza]

Three button rule?

[@LikelyProcrastinating]

Casual Fridays was the beginning of the end of civilization.

[@RyanJohnsonD]

haha

[@wholeNwon]

Or a reflection of the end of style.

[@charliebrown5611]

Great book that is 30 years old now. "Dress for Success" by Malloy.

[@elizabethhopkins7582]

The women's part was horrible!

[@mountaincruiser817]

I agree with him but people must also understand that not everyone cares deeply about there appearance. If I see Bill who has a similar build as myself I think, that looks smart and would look super on me to. But I never get further then this thought and fine with that.

[@rw80]

The world will be a better place if more people care.

[@mountaincruiser817]

@@rw80 Well, if your talking about fashion I don't agree. The toll it has on the environment is brutal. So the world would be a better place if nobody cared how they look/dress. ;-)

[@JJ-rr7pc]

@@mountaincruiser817actually, caring a lot about what you wear also includes buying better quality, and buying fewer things :)

[@elizabethhamon2706]

Oh Bill, thank you for shedding light on much needed fashion advice. The 1940s, swoon!

[@AQUAHOLIC]

Pure class.

[@ninjadudeofficial]

That tie is bloody lovely

[@TW-ps2cr]

Outstanding.

[@massimobordoni988]

Bill is a real gentleman …!

[@francescaseyer4709]

“I’m almost not lying…” 😂

[@evaguo1]

So enjoyable 🤣😆 Better than many comics. Pomegranate. 🤣😆 I love Bill Nighy.

[@dawnangelawalker]

So distracted by the collar of that shirt not lying flat

[@aquamarine_nz2296]

Gosh he's the only person I've ever heard to say exactly what I think about skinny jeans. Nobody looks great in them.

[@Lady-Jane1]

You had me at Bill Nighy!

[@roasthunter]

I have photos of my grandad wearing his suit to the beach in the 1970s although he did take his jacket off and roll up his sleeves. He dressed well even when on the beach.

[@johndoe-ep7qk]

the best part is just listening to him talk about style

[@sajid6027]

See him regularly in soho. Always immaculate.

[@janeseemann2527]

I think we could all learn from Bill. He’s satirical elegance with just the right amount of swagger.

[@derbyshirewalker]

Classic Bill Nighy…brilliant

[@Modbodsod]

Agree about the John Smedleys and the cardigan.

[@theviridiana1000]

preach

[@karpatty1]

Can't wait for the video of how Bill Nighy washes his clothing?

[@christinecamley]

I adore Bill!!

[@therealknapster]

I feel it my fingers , I feel in my toes . Fashion is important . . . & this post makes it show

[@gregoire7471]

And he’s got such a young and easy manner too

[@CaptCanuck4444]

I didn't agree with everything he said, but enjoyed the delivery. :)

[@trueblueimpersonations8949]

Yes to Bill Nighy 💕❤️👌

[@jeffhildreth9244]

There is "style " and there is "class". Bill Nighy has both. Late 30s and through the 40s.. best years for style and class.

[@EM-fs8nb]

I’d expect any man dating Anna Wintour to have style and this didn’t disappoint

[@andrewgenner2613]

Utter class!

[@ceh5526]

The master has spoken 😊

[@frenchprovincial9602]

I agree with you Mr Nighy about the skinny jeans and legging I hate them, I love the fifties the way people spent a little time looking in a full length mirror, ask Anna to have a column in Vogue about checking themselves in the mirror back and front could make a difference. People don't check and criticise themselves. Have a great day.

[@jeffhildreth9244]

Skinny jeans and leggings says (to me) "trash".

[@Sternoman1]

In the mid 60s when I was 18, I was referred to as a young fogey by my friends. I dressed from Montague Burtons and Austin Reeds. I blamed my dad who was an RAF officer where a certain level of dress was expected at all times. Now in my late seventies, i still insist on dressing up, never down. Old habits die hard.

[@marylouwhite226]

love Bill so poised

[@thomasriedel7583]

Spot-on. Especially regarding tan shoes and dark suits. A crime. And leggings-style trousers. A sin.

[@bethfiori4708]

He manages to be elegant and cute at the same time, no easy feat.

[@boxer1129]

"I can't relax around skinny jeans" 💀😄

[@marakima]

To each their own.... I like my men in miniskirts.

[@robertdoyle687]

A half Windsor knot helps Bill 😂

[@Alex-mj5dv]

God damn he’s even got the Real McCoy jeans.. what a style master. And he doesn’t have a washing machine.. what a legend.

[@peterfcoyle9127]

Also, Brooks Bros blue blazer.

[@d.l.l.6578]

Bill Nighy. Fashion icon.

[@Mamado88]

Love him ❤

[@johndowning7446]

Fantastic!

[@midcitygym]

Ha, classic Bill.

[@Braun30]

In 1947 many men were running around in their Demob suits, not the most elegant by any opinion.

[@sop2510]

Excellent!!

[@rosieevans6496]

This was an amazing experience

[@holly-go-lightly]

Love this man ❤

[@bludocc1]

Bill Nighy l love you , your style and deportment ................The Sunday Times Stylist for this shoot should be made aware that your tie is not quite straight and the back leg of the tie is exposed .........beautiful tie and knot though . your right hand shirt collar peak is a bit shabby , almost unpressed . Always love a great shirt and tie combination .

[@tygerstripes3752]

I'm something rather in love with Mr. Nighy, whose name I've been mangling forever, it seems. He's pronouncing it with only one syllable, yes? Impossible to say. Not sure where I'm going wrong there.