I first discovered Bill Nighy through his role as the slightly sleazy, washed-up pop star in the classic British Christmas film, Love Actually. At the time, I was definitely too young to get most of the jokes, but I’ve seen it so many times since then that I can recite the entire script—a party trick that’s not much fun for anyone watching with me. While my list of go-to comfort movies has grown over the years, Nighy has always been a favorite. Whether I’m sobbing through About Time or rewatching Emma and Chalet Girl for the hundredth time, his signature blend of British reserve and subtle style is always there.
Apart from his acting career, Nighy is known for his straightforward views on life and for being spotted often in London cafes. His love for fashion also led to a collaboration with the heritage knitwear brand John Smedley. Nighy has been wearing their clothes for over fifty years, but only recently stepped into the role of creative partner. Together, they’ve created a collection inspired by the 1940s, featuring twinsets and long johns alongside their classic merino and cashmere pieces.
The collection includes discreet doodles and the phrase “Stay Modern” woven into the designs. Nighy hopes he “hasn’t done anything to upset the average customer,” adding that “people who buy John Smedley are very loyal to the brand, but I’ve committed to crimes.” For those wanting more of his wise words, he’s just launched a podcast called Ill-Advised by Bill Nighy, where listeners can call in for advice, no matter how small the issue. Ahead of its release, Vogue spoke with Nighy about his mod roots, what makes a good pair of trousers, and why going sockless is never acceptable.
Photo: Charlie Gray
Vogue: What was your first experience with John Smedley?
Bill Nighy: When I was young, I wanted to be a mod—but my hair was difficult, which kind of held me back. One of the must-have items back then was a John Smedley three-button leisure polo. They were pretty expensive, so I’d save up for them—I kept a jam jar on my shelf and put money in each week for a new color. Part of me, irrational as it sounds, thinks I invented the idea of wearing a John Smedley polo under a jacket.
Vogue: How did you find collaborating on the collection?
Bill Nighy: When John Smedley called, I honestly thought it was an April Fool’s joke. It felt like a perfect full-circle moment—the brand has been part of my life since I was a teenager. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t just a figurehead, so I asked my agent to tell them I wanted to shorten the men’s cardigan by four inches—mostly to get their attention. I’ve always thought cardigans were too long—you end up folding them or pulling at the hem.
And then there are the birds. I’ve always doodled birds on my scripts when I should be learning lines—it’s my way of taking a sneaky break from work. They asked if I doodled anything, and I sent them my best ones. They’re now called Peter and George, and they appear subtly on the back of some pieces. It’s not a logo, just a quiet “hello.” I hope people find it stylish rather than strange.
Photo: Charlie Gray
Vogue: Is there anything from your wardrobe you’d love to bring back or banish forever?
Bill Nighy: Years ago, I spent all my money on a dark-blue double-breasted Giorgio Armani suit. I wore it until it fell apart and loved it with all my heart. I’d bring that back, though I might have to narrow the shoulders to fit through modern doorways.
As for banishing, those shiny black leggings—the rock chic kind that look like PVC but aren’t. And shorts. I’ve never worn shorts—not since I was a boy. I don’t see any reason to start now.Knees are a private matter. I don’t feel the need to share mine with the world.
Speaking of trousers, you mentioned you’re quite particular about them.
Yes, I love trousers. I prefer generous ones that swing and flow—not the tight-fitting kind. When I work on period films, I’m always relieved if the story is set after 1814 so I can avoid wearing breeches. I’ve managed to steer clear of knickerbockers throughout my entire career.
Are there any historic trousers you’d like to wear, either metaphorically or in reality?
Metaphorically, I’d love to wear the trousers of David Niven. He had impeccable style and exquisite manners. Physically, I’d choose the high-waisted, pleated trousers from the 1940s. They were wide, elegant, and practical. No one has improved on them since.
Does your approach to getting dressed change from day to day?
No, I’m quite consistent. The only real decision is whether to wear a suit or not. I remember reading about Andy Warhol, who would go to Bloomingdale’s every year and buy a hundred pairs of identical white Y-fronts. He’d look at all the colorful options but always ended up with the same ones. I was impressed—both by his commitment and the fact he could afford a hundred pairs. When I was young, my friend John had seven suits—one for each day of the week—and I vowed that if I ever made money, I’d do the same. Eventually, I did.
The photographer Angela Hill does that: she buys seven outfits a season, one for each day of the week.
That’s an excellent idea. I admire that kind of discipline.
Let’s talk about your podcast. It’s about advice—giving it, receiving it, and bad advice. How do you feel about dispensing wisdom?
The idea is that I don’t have all the answers—I’m just talking. I try not to sound profound; it’s bad manners to pretend to be wise. I mostly answer trivial questions—about socks, plants, things like that. Someone once asked if it’s ever acceptable to go out without socks. Obviously, the answer is no. I’m amazed anyone even has to ask.
What about flip-flops?
Flip-flops are fine—they’re honest. But shoes without socks? I just don’t trust you.
What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve ever received?
People don’t give me much advice anymore. That’s the downside of getting older: people start asking you for advice. When people ask me for “advice for the young,” I always say: don’t take drugs and pay your taxes. It might sound flippant, but it’s solid. Advice is a risky business. I wish someone had told me that clearly when I was younger.
The Bill Nighy X John Smedley collection is exclusively available to pre-order at John Smedley stores and www.johnsmedley.com.
Ill-Advised by Bill Nighy is available to listen now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Bill Nighy on the specified topics designed to be clear concise and natural
Bill Nighy on Trousers Advice Knitwear
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 Why does Bill Nighy talk about trousers so much
He believes a good pair of trousers is a foundation of a mans wardrobe He sees them as essential for looking presentable and feeling confident much like a good script is for an actor
2 What makes a pair of trousers good according to him
He emphasizes a perfect fit clean lines and classic style over trendy fashion For him they should be welltailored and timeless
3 Whats an example of the bad advice he mentions
He often cites the common but unhelpful advice given to actors Just be yourself He finds this vague and believes specific technical direction is far more useful
4 Why is Bill Nighy so passionate about knitwear
He finds knitwear like cashmere sweaters to be the ultimate combination of comfort and elegance He appreciates the texture simplicity and the feeling of being hugged by a good sweater
5 Has he ever given fashion advice himself
Yes indirectly His consistent message is to invest in quality classic pieces that fit well rather than chasing fastmoving trends
AdvancedLevel Questions
6 Beyond fit are there specific styles or fabrics he prefers in trousers
He has a noted preference for wellcut suits and tailored trousers often in classic wool or gabardine He avoids anything overly flashy or with loud patterns
7 How does his view on bad advice relate to his acting process
It shows he values precision and craft He prefers directors who give him actionable notes on how to deliver a line or move rather than abstract inspirational phrases
8 Does his love for knitwear influence his redcarpet choices
Absolutely He is famous for often choosing sophisticated highquality knitwear like a simple black rollneck or a finegauge sweater even at formal events making it his signature look
9 Whats a common mistake people make when choosing trousers that he would likely criticize
Choosing trousers that are either too tight or too baggy