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13.09.24

Profiles in Pink: Luke Evans

The Hollywood actor and founder of menswear label BDXY on his biggest achievements, style inspirations and shirts that deliver the whole package.

From starring in Hollywood blockbusters to leading stage roles in the West End, Luke Evans has garnered the world's unwavering attention courtesy of his ineffable talent dashing good looks and Welsh charm. But he doesn't just have an incredible singing voice and acclaimed acting skills in his locker. Like us, the Clash of the Titans and Beauty and the Beast star has also got a pretty good sartorial eye, recently launching his own menswear label BDXY.

Perfecting the art of underwear basics. Evans's considered designs showcase sustainable fabrics, exquisite cuts and above all, comfort - perfect for layering under a Thomas Pink wardrobe, as he demonstrates so well. Fresh from filming a new movie. Weekend in Taipei - out this November - and writing his hotly requested memoir, we caught up with Evans to discuss shooting, style and (most importantly) shirts.

Tell us your origin story, how did you first get into performing?

Well, I was always performing as a kid in the house in South Wales, but when I left home and started working, I paid for my first proper singing lesson in Cardiff I then started to compete in competitions before going to college in London when I was 17 years old, for three years.

What's been your biggest achievement in your career?

Probably the fact that I'm still here. I'm still doing work that I love and I'm proud of, and I still enjoy it.

What inspired you to write your memoir, Boy From the Valleys?

I was actually approached by a publishing house to write the memoir. It wasn't something I had considered, but after a month or two of thinking about it I decided I would do it I hope it's a story that inspires and is relatable to a Lot of people, whoever they may be, whatever age they may be.

Are there any upcoming projects that you're particularly excited about?

I'm currently in Portland, Oregon, shooting my new project Criminal. I also have a great movie coming out in November which I'm very proud of - it's very entertaining, It's a new film produced by Luc Besson called Weekend in Taipei: amazing action, strong storyline, great character stories, a little romance and a touch of comedy too.

Tell us about your brand BDXY and the inspiration behind it?

For many years I've wanted to design my own collection, and so two and a half years ago my partner Fran, and one of my best friends, stylist and creative director Christopher Brown, decided we would put our heads together and come up with a small men's collection that considered the concept of making the perfect menswear staples. It was important that we used sustainable fabrics, and created a cut that was complementary and looked great but was also comfortable and durable. We have an actor, an architect and a stylist - we all had very strong opinions and put all of our passion into creating each of the pieces in our first collection.

What's the one BDXY piece that every man should own?

With this first collection, we decided to start from the skin outwards. We wanted to consider the things that were closest to your skin every day of your life. So, we began with the underwear, the vest, the T-shirt, the swimwear, the shorts. We did a deep dive into our inspiration which was Old Hollywood - the likes of Harrison Ford, Steve McQueen, JFK Jr. I think the most important piece in this first collection would be the T-shirt. We've created a piece that fits so well. It's a soft silk, and it's durable and doesn't lose its shape - that's what I look for in a T-shirt.

What do you Look for in a shirt?

I'm quite particular about how a shirt looks on me. I don't want a shirt to feel too blousy. I like it to feel fitted without restricting my movements or making me feel like I'm in a straight jacket I don't like the arms to be too long. I love them just to peek out under a jacket And I do like a strong collar. I also like a shirt that I can wash at home and iron myself, and looks as good as it did when I took it out the packet.

Suited and booted or comfy and casual?

I honestly love both. In my life, I get the opportunity to be extremely comfy and casual, as well as moments when I can put on a tuxedo or a suit, dress it up and feel super sharp, There is an enjoyment to both of these kinds of dressing.

Who's your style icon?

I don't think I have one style icon. but I appreciate men who style themselves and it looks effortless. It's easier said than done, but that's what always catches my eye.