Activist, CEO and fashion power player, Sinéad Burke, shares her manifesto for change within the industry. Read more on Grazia.
The British Fashion Council (BFC) published its first DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) Census of the UK fashion industry last month. The BFC promotes British fashion and supports the sector to export, grow and, by its own definition, innovate. The data showed that of the 1,529 survey participants, only 6% identified as disabled, with 94% identifying as non-disabled, or at least, not disabled right now. It’s a statistic that is out of sync with the UK population, which has 16 million disabled people; one in every six. So, why is fashion so under-populated with disabled people? Or do they not feel safe, comfortable or supported to acknowledge their disability?
Jonathan Bailey in an interview: "Having the strength to correct oneself, that is true strength."
In an exclusive GRAZIA interview, actor Jonathan Bailey speaks openly with us about the secret of the Italian serenity he loves so much, his very personal everyday rituals, and what true romance means to him.
(translated from Grazia Germany)
Since his roles in the television phenomenon "Bridgerton", the cinematic highlight "Wicked" and the blockbuster "Jurassic World: Rebirth", the British actor has become an indispensable part of the international film world.
Milan is in a state of excitement: In the fashion capital, it's just been officially announced – Hollywood heartthrob Jonathan Bailey is following in the footsteps of some very big names and is the new MARTINI Man. We were there live and met the charming Brit for an exclusive GRAZIA interview. In the interview, he reveals what fascinates him so much about the Italian way of life, the simple ritual he uses to find himself again in everyday life, and what true strength and genuine romance really mean to him.
Grazia: Italy stands for lightness, style, and the famous Dolce Vita – is there anything about the Italian lifestyle that you've consciously adopted for yourself?
Jonathan Bailey: There's simply too much to choose from. Everything! But to be specific, I'd say I've embraced the aperitivo culture. It's that magical moment of calm that separates day from evening and work from pleasure. A time when you can truly consciously spend time with the people you love. You lean back and simply observe the activity around you – an aperitivo can't be rushed. I think that's something we should all adopt: this moment of slowing down.
That sounds wonderful. When you're planning an aperitivo evening like this with friends, what's most important to you?
That they all actually come (laughs)! I've come to love bringing all my friends together over the past few years. When you introduce people to each other, you create a space where everyone is welcome, no one pretends, and everyone simply has a fantastic time. It's like a little escape from reality—beautiful, with good conversation, soft background music, a great view, and ideally right by the water. And of course, some good drinks, especially a Martini Spritz. Incidentally, the best evening of this kind I've ever had was in Salento, Italy. There was nothing but Martini, great aperitivo, and it went on until late into the night—an absolutely unforgettable evening.
How would you describe "Italian style" to someone who isn't here tonight?
I would describe Italian style as pure self-confidence. There's this fundamental serenity that I find inherently sexy. It has a lot to do with a passion for family, community, and shared experiences. Basically, everyone here has a real sense of who they are, and that's reflected in their clothing choices. That's why Italian style and culture are among my absolute favorites. It's this incomparable blend of elegance and ease. And true elegance always comes from within.
You're often associated with that very elegance and a touch of old Hollywood charm—how would you sum up your own style?
Not like that (laughs). I think style is very much about interpretation, projection, and how you're perceived by others. For me, it just feels completely instinctive. There are no hard and fast rules. Sometimes a look works, sometimes it doesn't. But if I see a piece and love it, I wear it—until I eventually lose it.
For me, style means truly loving the clothes you choose and developing a genuine relationship with them. This stems from self-confidence and personal taste. So yes, for me it's completely instinctive.
How do you bring a little more style into everyday life?
You should always be mindful and open to being inspired by what you see. For example, I absolutely love going to vintage shops – it's always fantastic. I was browsing again recently and had one of the best, most inspiring days ever. That's when I found this beautiful cardigan. I wore it and, unfortunately, lost it right away. You know that feeling when you just know: This is exactly right for me. In the end, I think it was simply too special to stay only in my world. Perhaps it has now found its way into someone else's life. That must be the reason, because I think I'll always remember this cardigan.
Perhaps you'll stumble across a new favorite cardigan in the fashion capital. Have you had a chance to browse the vintage shops here in Milan yet?
Unfortunately not yet; I only arrived last night. I did pop into one once in Germany. It's always a great experience. When I was in Mexico City last year on a press tour, I thought it was simply fantastic there as well. For me, it's very similar to family restaurants and trattorias: when you go into these vintage shops, you find a genuine, authentic identity.
You're now seen as a kind of style icon – does that put pressure on you, or do you simply enjoy playing with fashion?
It's so much fun! The pressure is also cushioned by the brilliant people I surround myself with. For example, I've been working with stylist Emma Jade Morrison for a few years now – she's simply extraordinary and has exquisite taste that's incredibly fun and playful.
The brilliant thing about our job is that over time you get to collaborate with so many different people, gain new perspectives, and share the joy. I'm currently working with Robert Rabensteiner, and he's incredible. In my opinion, he's the sexiest and most stylish man on the planet! So, the best way to cope with the pressure is through teamwork with these amazing talents, each bringing their own unique style. Collaborating with others constantly gives me fresh perspectives on fashion. I'm incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such special people who support me in this.
You travel a lot, film movies, and work with international brands—do you have a ritual that helps you reconnect with yourself in between?
For me, it simply means going for walks, cycling, getting out into nature, and being on the move. I'm currently starting a film shoot in Germany, and I'm cycling everywhere there. For me, getting out into nature is something really special—ideally, anyway. But I also love the change of perspective and exploring cities, whether on foot or by bike. I find it incredibly exciting, refreshing, and somehow invigorating every time.
Many know you from very romantic roles – how romantic are you in your private life: more of a grand gesture kind of person or a fan of small, quiet moments?
I think for me it's more of a thoughtful approach. Of course, there's always room for every kind of romance. But in recent years, my personal focus has been primarily on spending time with my family and friends, working, volunteering for charities, and playing sports. That's helped me regain my balance after these incredibly intense years.
However, I am now absolutely ready to fully welcome romance back into my life. For me, it is rather quiet, friendly, and constant – and above all, it is based on good communication.
This maturity and composure often only come with age. If you look back at your younger self at the beginning of your career, what would surprise him most about your life now?
I would be surprised that you can have a great time and meet such brilliant people wherever you go. Not that that in itself is a surprise, but during your school years, everything often feels very rigid. There are systems that make you feel like you have to feel a certain way or achieve goals in predetermined ways. In retrospect, it was perhaps less of a surprise for me and more of a great relief to see that things can be different. It always comes down to the people you surround yourself with. And there are countless wonderful, lovely people out there.
Many see you as an example of a more modern, open form of masculinity—how do you define strength for yourself?
I'm 100 percent a work in progress myself and absolutely not perfect, but I appreciate being able to tolerate contradictions. For me, strength means being decisive and empathetic at the same time. Clearly communicating what you need while still remaining friendly. Burning with passion without overshadowing others. It's essentially a constant balancing act. But I think being self-aware and having the maturity to correct yourself is true strength. And curiosity is essential—it's absolutely key for me.
Staying true to yourself and constantly questioning yourself requires inner strength. Against this backdrop, what does genuine self-confidence mean to you?
For me, self-confidence means making decisions and standing by them, regardless of the consequences. It means being able to maintain joy even during frustrating times and to recognize deeper meaning even in carefree, easy moments – that, to me, is what true self-confidence is all about.
