Style Exclusive: Brace Yourself
Most men are thrill seekers, looking for ways to get adrenaline pumping through their veins, and Luke Bracey, the face of the new fragrance from Ralph Lauren, ‘Polo Red Extreme’, is no exception and possibly the most perfect fit. From skydiving, to rock climbing, to surfing giant waves, Bracey leapt at the chance to perform as many of his own stunts in 2015’s Point Break. Bracey talks masculinity, staying in shape and his experience of facing this new ‘extreme’ fragrance in an interview with Ralph Lauren.
Masculinity means many things: strength, compassion and confidence; and knowing who you are, where you’ve come from and where you’re going.
Who is Luke Bracey?
I’m 28, a film actor and I’m from Australia. I currently live in both LA and Australia. Both are beautiful places to stay active. I enjoy surfing and hiking. I love to travel; it’s a huge passion of mine, which is why it was such a great experience travelling to 11 different countries when I shot Point Break.
How do you feel about being the new face of Polo Red fragrances?
I am thrilled to join Ralph Lauren Fragrances as the face of Polo Red, an exciting fragrance that embodies the endurance and adrenaline of the activities I love. Ralph Lauren is an iconic brand that I’ve admired for many years, and it is an honour to represent the brand in this way.
What comes to mind when you wear Polo Red?
Speed, power and adrenaline. It’s bold, fresh and definitely makes you feel ready to take on any challenge. I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie, which is what I love about Polo Red. It has a kick to it that’s unique, fresh and spicy.
What comes to mind when you wear Polo Red Extreme?
For me, Polo Red Extreme is the perfect evening scent – powerful, long-lasting and addictive.
What do you think about the man who wears Polo Red or Polo Red Extreme?
Polo Red is for the man who lives life on the edge and takes risks. He is confident and commands the attention of the room in a subtle way.
What to do think of the new campaign?
The campaign is incredible, energetic and powerful – action, adventure and sports packed into one.
Bruce Weber is the film director. What was it like to work with him?
Working with Bruce Weber, one of the best, is an honour. He is spontaneous, encouraging and sees beauty in everything.
What is the difference between shooting a fragrance commercial and a film?
Shooting a film can take up to six months and the schedule is tight and rigorous. With the Polo Red campaign, there was a lot freedom and spontaneity. I really felt at ease with the character since he was so closely linked to who I am.
What is your favourite extreme sport and why?
Being from Australia, I grew up surfing. Surfing challenges you like no other sport. Every wave is different, so it’s a total rush every time.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about living life to the fullest. Find something you’re passionate about, and do everything you can to follow that passion.
In a few words, what does extreme mean to you?
Extreme means pushing your boundaries and limitations and living life to the fullest.
What is the most extreme experience in your life?
As a fan of extreme sports, shooting Point Break and doing as many stunts as I possibly could was a dream come true. I did everything from skydiving, to rock climbing, to surfing giant waves, to motor biking in some of the most beautiful and unique places around the world.
How would you define masculinity?
Masculinity means many things: strength, compassion, and confidence; and knowing who you are, where you’ve come from and where you’re going. A man’s strength is knowing his weakness as well, and knowing there’s room for improvement in all aspects of life.
How do stay in shape?
Regardless of where I am – at home in Australia or shooting in LA – I always start the day with 100 push-ups and 100 sit ups.
What attracts you to a woman?
Confidence, a strong sense of self, humour and individuality.
What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?
Chocolate – I absolutely love it.
Tell us about your grooming routine.
I have a very simple grooming routine: moisturiser for the face then a spritz of Polo Red or Polo Red Extreme. I tend to wear Polo Red during the day and transition to Polo Red Extreme at night. I grew up by the ocean and the best feeling is going for a swim and using a bit of sand to exfoliate my skin.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No day is typical. When I’m filming, my schedule is more rigid: 5:30am wake-up call, followed by 100 push-ups, a cup of coffee and working on set all day. During my off time, I like to relax and find those moments where I can breathe. I love reading a book or the newspaper, or playing backgammon with a good friend.