Zoë Kravitz on Her British Vogue Cover, Being A “Cool Girl”, and Wearing Braids on the Red Carpet

As someone who has been in the spotlight for most of her life, Zoë Kravitz is still figuring out how to navigate the way that fans see her. “I know a lot of people will tell me after we get to know each other that I seem intimidating or standoffish, or like maybe I’m a bitch or something, which I think is funny ’cause I don’t think that’s who I am,” she tells Chioma on this Thursday’s episode of The Run-Through. Often regarded as a “cool girl” for her effortless style and unmistakable talent as an actress and director, Zoë admits she doesn’t connect with that identifier. “I don’t really know what the word cool even means anymore. We kind of throw these words around like cool and iconic, and I’m like, ‘What are we talking about?’ But it’s funny. I think in some ways it’s a compliment because, you know, maybe it just means that I seem relaxed and kind of comfortable in my own skin.” Over the past year, the British Vogue cover star has made headlines with her rumored engagement to Harry Styles. But in this candid interview, she discusses her life beyond the media circus—from starring in an upcoming heist film, How to Rob a Bank, alongside her friend and frequent co-star Nicholas Hoult, as well as Anna Sawai, John C. Reilly, and Christian Slater, to what it was like wearing braids on the red carpet when no one else was doing it. “I struggled with my hair a lot growing up, as many Black girls do for obvious reasons. It’s not something we see a lot of—or at least when I was a kid, even more so—you don’t see it a lot in mainstream fashion. And so it’s been a real journey emotionally. Now you also see all kinds of people rocking braids. I think I’m in a place of self-love with my hair, which also feels so nice and liberating.” Earlier in the show, Chioma sits down with two Vogue contributors and collaborators on the cover shoot: Julia Sarr-Jamois and Tish Weinstock. They discuss how the cover came together, plus the wellness trends they’re obsessed with and what you should actually wear to a summer wedding. The Run-Through with Vogue is your go-to podcast where fashion meets culture. Hosted by Chloe Malle, Head of Editorial Content, Vogue U.S.; Chioma Nnadi, Head of British Vogue; and Nicole Phelps, Director of Vogue Runway, each episode features the latest fashion news and exclusive designer and celebrity interviews. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices