<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion]]>Speaking Of Fashion is a podcast by The Vanilla Issue, exploring the people, ideas, and stories shaping fashion today.

Hosted by Shreya "BrownFashionGal" Shrivastava, each episode brings together designers, creatives, founders, and industry voices for honest conversations about building a career, finding your creative identity, navigating the fashion world, and everything in between.

]]>www.thevanillaissue.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 22 Oct 2026 09:33:48 GMTTue, 21 Jul 2026 16:26:30 GMT60The Vanilla Issue<p>Speaking Of Fashion is a podcast by The Vanilla Issue, exploring the people, ideas, and stories shaping fashion today.</p><p></p><p>Hosted by Shreya "BrownFashionGal" Shrivastava, each episode brings together designers, creatives, founders, and industry voices for honest conversations about building a career, finding your creative identity, navigating the fashion world, and everything in between.</p>episodicThe Vanilla Issuecalvin@thevanillaissue.comno<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #10 Nafisa Tosh]]>What does it take to make a garment look flawless on the runway or red carpet? In this episode of Speaking of Fashion, I sit down with Nafisa Tosh, a leading tailor and sample machinist whose clients include Chanel and Prada. She has worked with Alexander McQueen, Christopher Kane and Jasper Conran, and has tailored for stars like Tom Holland and Zendaya.

Nafisa takes us from her father’s tailoring shop, which he opened after moving from Gujarat to London in 1960, to the top ateliers of the fashion world. We talk about the golden age of fashion, why paper magazines still matter, what a creative director should bring to the table, and why the people who actually make the clothes deserve far more credit.

In this episode:

  • Growing up in a tailor’s family and choosing fashion as a South Asian woman in the UK
  • Learning the craft from the ground up, one technique at a time
  • Why Vogue was her Bible, and the story of her mum throwing out her collection
  • Is creativity “watered down” in the digital age?
  • Her take on Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel and the Bavita outfit backlash
  • Teaching at Central Saint Martins
  • Working with Lee McQueen
  • Christopher Kane’s “Princess Margaret on acid” collection
  • Sewing for Jasper Conran and Princess Diana’s wardrobe
  • Why stylists get too much credit and makers too little
  • Running a studio, managing a team and getting paid
  • Does fashion education still teach the technical skills?
  • London vs. Paris vs. Milan

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

00:59 Nafisa’s family story and journey into fashion

06:23 Early career and learning the craft

14:21 Vogue, magazines and their relevance today

19:07 Is creativity watered down?

23:03 Chanel, Matthieu Blazy and the Bavita outfit

26:30 Teaching at CSM: students then vs. now

31:12 The role of a creative director

33:37 Working with Alexander McQueen

39:51 Christopher Kane and the neon collection

45:47 Jasper Conran, Princess Diana and Elizabeth Emanuel

49:56 Credit for the people who make the clothes

55:22 Running a studio and a team of 30 to 40

59:31 Fashion education and practical skills

1:00:24 London, Paris and Milan compared

🎙 Guest: Nafisa Tosh

🎙 Host: Brown Fashion Gal

👉 Subscribe for more conversations with the people behind fashion.

]]>1fdebe1f-0e07-477c-8cc5-c8f6c55a7ea1Thu, 15 Oct 2026 05:51:19 GMT<p>What does it take to make a garment look flawless on the runway or red carpet? In this episode of Speaking of Fashion, I sit down with Nafisa Tosh, a leading tailor and sample machinist whose clients include Chanel and Prada. She has worked with Alexander McQueen, Christopher Kane and Jasper Conran, and has tailored for stars like Tom Holland and Zendaya.</p><p>Nafisa takes us from her father’s tailoring shop, which he opened after moving from Gujarat to London in 1960, to the top ateliers of the fashion world. We talk about the golden age of fashion, why paper magazines still matter, what a creative director should bring to the table, and why the people who actually make the clothes deserve far more credit.</p><p>In this episode:</p><ul><li>Growing up in a tailor’s family and choosing fashion as a South Asian woman in the UK</li><li>Learning the craft from the ground up, one technique at a time</li><li>Why Vogue was her Bible, and the story of her mum throwing out her collection</li><li>Is creativity “watered down” in the digital age?</li><li>Her take on Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel and the Bavita outfit backlash</li><li>Teaching at Central Saint Martins</li><li>Working with Lee McQueen</li><li>Christopher Kane’s “Princess Margaret on acid” collection</li><li>Sewing for Jasper Conran and Princess Diana’s wardrobe</li><li>Why stylists get too much credit and makers too little</li><li>Running a studio, managing a team and getting paid</li><li>Does fashion education still teach the technical skills?</li><li>London vs. Paris vs. Milan</li></ul><p>Timestamps</p><p>00:00 Introduction</p><p>00:59 Nafisa’s family story and journey into fashion</p><p>06:23 Early career and learning the craft</p><p>14:21 Vogue, magazines and their relevance today</p><p>19:07 Is creativity watered down?</p><p>23:03 Chanel, Matthieu Blazy and the Bavita outfit</p><p>26:30 Teaching at CSM: students then vs. now</p><p>31:12 The role of a creative director</p><p>33:37 Working with Alexander McQueen</p><p>39:51 Christopher Kane and the neon collection</p><p>45:47 Jasper Conran, Princess Diana and Elizabeth Emanuel</p><p>49:56 Credit for the people who make the clothes</p><p>55:22 Running a studio and a team of 30 to 40</p><p>59:31 Fashion education and practical skills</p><p>1:00:24 London, Paris and Milan compared</p><p>🎙 Guest: Nafisa Tosh</p><p>🎙 Host: Brown Fashion Gal</p><p>👉 Subscribe for more conversations with the people behind fashion.</p>no01:03:33110Speaking Of Fashion #10 Nafisa Toshfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #9 Karina Bond]]>From hot glue dresses to 3D-printed couture — Karina Bond takes us inside her wildly original approach to fashion tech. On this episode of Speaking of Fashion, Karina talks about training at Central Saint Martins (on her third attempt), building her brand the day she graduated, why she's drawn to techniques that "can't be done," and how a $15 arts-and-crafts 3D pen became her signature couture tool. We also get into AI vs. human creativity, the real sustainability story behind 3D-printed "plastic" garments, dressing Jisoo, and why London may be losing its edge as fashion's emerging-designer capital.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro
0:40 – How Karina got into fashion (drawing dresses since childhood)
1:56 – Studying at Central Saint Martins (rejected twice first)
3:50 – Did fashion school prepare her for running a business?
4:54 – Starting her brand the day she graduated
6:00 – Why ready-to-wear is the hardest category right now
6:37 – Comparisons to Iris van Herpen and Robert Wun
7:11 – Where her creative inspiration really comes from
8:59 – Trends, taste, and stepping away from doomscrolling
11:32 – What is 3D printing, explained simply
12:18 – Why she was drawn to a technique that "can't scale"
13:35 – Will people 3D print their own clothes one day?
14:22 – The future: custom body scanning instead of sizing
16:26 – Being mistaken for AI-generated fashion
18:37 – Where she draws the line on using AI creatively
19:31 – Combining 3D printing with sportswear
21:10 – Rating 3D printing's sustainability (and its limits)
22:57 – Why "upcycling" isn't the sustainability answer
24:10 – Polyester, plastic, and Gen Z's fabric shaming
26:08 – Should luxury brands charge $2–3K for 100% polyester?
26:50 – Is the fashion industry supportive of experimental designers?
29:16 – Is London losing its status as the emerging-designer capital?
31:42 – Does social media virality actually drive sales?
33:22 – Why she started with 3D-printed bags
34:18 – Inside the 3D pen: how "couture 3D printing" works
38:49 – Getting dressed by Jisoo — and chasing Lady Gaga
41:06 – What the fashion industry could do better for emerging designers
43:11 – Closing thoughts

]]>282a3bfb-b5ca-463a-bb8e-a1f5fb25388bSun, 27 Sep 2026 11:27:32 GMT<p>From hot glue dresses to 3D-printed couture — Karina Bond takes us inside her wildly original approach to fashion tech. On this episode of Speaking of Fashion, Karina talks about training at Central Saint Martins (on her third attempt), building her brand the day she graduated, why she's drawn to techniques that "can't be done," and how a $15 arts-and-crafts 3D pen became her signature couture tool. We also get into AI vs. human creativity, the real sustainability story behind 3D-printed "plastic" garments, dressing Jisoo, and why London may be losing its edge as fashion's emerging-designer capital.</p><p><b><strong>Timestamps:</strong></b><br />0:00 – Intro<br />0:40 – How Karina got into fashion (drawing dresses since childhood)<br />1:56 – Studying at Central Saint Martins (rejected twice first)<br />3:50 – Did fashion school prepare her for running a business?<br />4:54 – Starting her brand the day she graduated<br />6:00 – Why ready-to-wear is the hardest category right now<br />6:37 – Comparisons to Iris van Herpen and Robert Wun<br />7:11 – Where her creative inspiration really comes from<br />8:59 – Trends, taste, and stepping away from doomscrolling<br />11:32 – What is 3D printing, explained simply<br />12:18 – Why she was drawn to a technique that "can't scale"<br />13:35 – Will people 3D print their own clothes one day?<br />14:22 – The future: custom body scanning instead of sizing<br />16:26 – Being mistaken for AI-generated fashion<br />18:37 – Where she draws the line on using AI creatively<br />19:31 – Combining 3D printing with sportswear<br />21:10 – Rating 3D printing's sustainability (and its limits)<br />22:57 – Why "upcycling" isn't the sustainability answer<br />24:10 – Polyester, plastic, and Gen Z's fabric shaming<br />26:08 – Should luxury brands charge $2–3K for 100% polyester?<br />26:50 – Is the fashion industry supportive of experimental designers?<br />29:16 – Is London losing its status as the emerging-designer capital?<br />31:42 – Does social media virality actually drive sales?<br />33:22 – Why she started with 3D-printed bags<br />34:18 – Inside the 3D pen: how "couture 3D printing" works<br />38:49 – Getting dressed by Jisoo — and chasing Lady Gaga<br />41:06 – What the fashion industry could do better for emerging designers<br />43:11 – Closing thoughts</p>no00:43:4719Speaking Of Fashion #9 Karina Bondfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #8 Anastasia Samara]]>In this episode of Speaking of Fashion, Brownfashiongal sits down with stylist and fashion critic Anastasia Samara for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about the current state of fashion.

From dressing in Paris and the importance of quality and construction to the rise of casual dressing, fashion criticism online, and the constant musical chairs happening across major fashion houses, Anastasia shares her unfiltered perspective on where the industry is headed.

We discuss Jonathan Anderson at Dior, Matthieu Blazy at Chanel, Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Demna at Gucci, Moschino and Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent, as well as the pressure placed on designers to deliver instant results.

Anastasia also shares her thoughts on the decline of fashion editorials, the loss of creativity in styling, the importance of supporting emerging designers, and why fashion should remain a form of fantasy rather than becoming purely functional.

And, of course, we talk about those Chanel barefoot shoes.

Timestamps:

00:00 — Intro & meeting Anastasia
00:48 — Anastasia's journey into fashion
04:55 — How Paris has shaped her relationship with fashion
08:56 — What Anastasia looks for when buying clothes
10:45 — Fashion criticism online & the luxury consumer
15:04 — Why Anastasia started trying runway pieces in real life
17:11 — The designer "musical chairs" in fashion
21:40 — Jonathan Anderson at Dior
24:58 — Designer workload & empathy in fashion criticism
27:34 — Matthieu Blazy at Chanel
30:18 — How much of the Chanel "mania" is PR?
31:01 — Chanel's controversial barefoot shoes
32:18 — Why fashion needs fantasy, extravagance & fun
33:52 — Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta
35:32 — The return of sensuality in fashion
36:03 — Haider Ackermann at Tom Ford
37:56 — Demna at Gucci
41:10 — What's happening at Moschino?
42:36 — Why fashion needs to support new designers
44:01 — Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent
45:40 — The Saint Laurent nylon dress
48:24 — The state of fashion editorials
50:12 — Has Vogue lost its authenticity?
52:37 — Why fashion editorials feel stale
55:25 — The decline of creative styling
56:19 — The corporate mold of fashion
57:15 — "There is no fashion anymore. They're just clothes."
58:08 — Why fashion creatives need to dress the part
1:00:15 — Do people still care about fashion?
1:02:00 — Fashion as inspiration & the future of the industry

🎙️ Guest: Anastasia Samara
🎤 Interviewer: Brownfashiongal
📍 Speaking of Fashion

What do you think about the current state of fashion? Which designer do you think deserves more time, and which fashion house needs a serious rethink? Let us know in the comments.

#SpeakingOfFashion #AnastasiaSamara #Brownfashiongal #Fashion #FashionCriticism #FashionIndustry #LuxuryFashion #FashionStyling #FashionJournalism

]]>31e67344-4b6e-4166-a53f-fc32c09d7aa6Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:05:39 GMT<p>In this episode of <b>Speaking of Fashion</b>, Brownfashiongal sits down with stylist and fashion critic <b>Anastasia Samara</b> for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about the current state of fashion.</p><p>From dressing in Paris and the importance of quality and construction to the rise of casual dressing, fashion criticism online, and the constant musical chairs happening across major fashion houses, Anastasia shares her unfiltered perspective on where the industry is headed.</p><p>We discuss <b>Jonathan Anderson at Dior, Matthieu Blazy at Chanel, Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Demna at Gucci, Moschino and Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent</b>, as well as the pressure placed on designers to deliver instant results.</p><p>Anastasia also shares her thoughts on the decline of fashion editorials, the loss of creativity in styling, the importance of supporting emerging designers, and why fashion should remain a form of fantasy rather than becoming purely functional.</p><p>And, of course, we talk about those <b>Chanel barefoot shoes</b>.</p><p><b>Timestamps:</b></p><p>00:00 — Intro &amp; meeting Anastasia<br />00:48 — Anastasia's journey into fashion<br />04:55 — How Paris has shaped her relationship with fashion<br />08:56 — What Anastasia looks for when buying clothes<br />10:45 — Fashion criticism online &amp; the luxury consumer<br />15:04 — Why Anastasia started trying runway pieces in real life<br />17:11 — The designer "musical chairs" in fashion<br />21:40 — Jonathan Anderson at Dior<br />24:58 — Designer workload &amp; empathy in fashion criticism<br />27:34 — Matthieu Blazy at Chanel<br />30:18 — How much of the Chanel "mania" is PR?<br />31:01 — Chanel's controversial barefoot shoes<br />32:18 — Why fashion needs fantasy, extravagance &amp; fun<br />33:52 — Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta<br />35:32 — The return of sensuality in fashion<br />36:03 — Haider Ackermann at Tom Ford<br />37:56 — Demna at Gucci<br />41:10 — What's happening at Moschino?<br />42:36 — Why fashion needs to support new designers<br />44:01 — Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent<br />45:40 — The Saint Laurent nylon dress<br />48:24 — The state of fashion editorials<br />50:12 — Has Vogue lost its authenticity?<br />52:37 — Why fashion editorials feel stale<br />55:25 — The decline of creative styling<br />56:19 — The corporate mold of fashion<br />57:15 — "There is no fashion anymore. They're just clothes."<br />58:08 — Why fashion creatives need to dress the part<br />1:00:15 — Do people still care about fashion?<br />1:02:00 — Fashion as inspiration &amp; the future of the industry</p><p>🎙️ <b>Guest:</b> Anastasia Samara<br />🎤 <b>Interviewer:</b> Brownfashiongal<br />📍 <b>Speaking of Fashion</b></p><p>What do you think about the current state of fashion? Which designer do you think deserves more time, and which fashion house needs a serious rethink? Let us know in the comments.</p><p>#SpeakingOfFashion #AnastasiaSamara #Brownfashiongal #Fashion #FashionCriticism #FashionIndustry #LuxuryFashion #FashionStyling #FashionJournalism</p>no01:06:2518Speaking Of Fashion #8 Anastasia Samarafull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #7 JUDASSIME]]>Benjamin's journey into fashion began as a club kid, creating outfits for the nightlife scene. His brand, Club Couture, pays homage to his club kid days and features diverse collections. He believes that traditional fashion degrees are less important in today's landscape, and the most successful designers are often dropouts. He differentiates a real fashion brand from a TikTok fashion brand based on identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Benjamin's experience dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox had a significant impact on his brand, with Lady Gaga's support helping to save his company during a challenging time. He also discussed the responsibility of brands to support causes and bring awareness, emphasizing the need for consistent action rather than occasional responses to events. The conversation covers topics related to performative activism, gender fluidity in fashion, the challenges of being an independent designer, and a personal experience with a celebrity's team. It also delves into the toxic nature of celebrity fandoms and the impact of privilege in the fashion industry.

Takeaways

  • Club Couture pays homage to Benjamin's club kid days and features diverse collections.
  • Traditional fashion degrees are less important in today's landscape, and successful designers are often dropouts.
  • The differentiation between a real fashion brand and a TikTok fashion brand is based on identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
  • Dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox had a significant impact on Benjamin's brand, with Lady Gaga's support helping to save his company during a challenging time.
  • Brands have a responsibility to support causes and bring awareness, emphasizing the need for consistent action rather than occasional responses to events. Performative activism is a prevalent issue in the fashion industry.
  • Gender fluidity in fashion design presents unique challenges and considerations.
  • The life of an independent designer involves hard work, struggle, and the need to wear multiple hats.
  • The toxic nature of celebrity fandoms and the impact of privilege in the fashion industry are significant issues.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Club Kid Journey
  • 03:28 Traditional Fashion Degrees vs. Creativity
  • 05:54 Real Fashion Brand vs. TikTok Fashion Brand
  • 09:00 Shaping Fashion Journey in Belgium
  • 10:02 Influential Designers and Theatrical Elements
  • 12:13 Business and Creative Niche
  • 15:03 Dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox
  • 20:50 Identity and Responsibility of Brands
  • 33:41 Experience with a Celebrity's Team
]]>e7cb61e4-7b57-47b3-b4d1-b2ffeb8f9813Tue, 01 Sep 2026 20:05:46 GMT<p>Benjamin's journey into fashion began as a club kid, creating outfits for the nightlife scene. His brand, Club Couture, pays homage to his club kid days and features diverse collections. He believes that traditional fashion degrees are less important in today's landscape, and the most successful designers are often dropouts. He differentiates a real fashion brand from a TikTok fashion brand based on identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Benjamin's experience dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox had a significant impact on his brand, with Lady Gaga's support helping to save his company during a challenging time. He also discussed the responsibility of brands to support causes and bring awareness, emphasizing the need for consistent action rather than occasional responses to events. The conversation covers topics related to performative activism, gender fluidity in fashion, the challenges of being an independent designer, and a personal experience with a celebrity's team. It also delves into the toxic nature of celebrity fandoms and the impact of privilege in the fashion industry.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Club Couture pays homage to Benjamin's club kid days and features diverse collections.</li><li>Traditional fashion degrees are less important in today's landscape, and successful designers are often dropouts.</li><li>The differentiation between a real fashion brand and a TikTok fashion brand is based on identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling.</li><li>Dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox had a significant impact on Benjamin's brand, with Lady Gaga's support helping to save his company during a challenging time.</li><li>Brands have a responsibility to support causes and bring awareness, emphasizing the need for consistent action rather than occasional responses to events. Performative activism is a prevalent issue in the fashion industry.</li><li>Gender fluidity in fashion design presents unique challenges and considerations.</li><li>The life of an independent designer involves hard work, struggle, and the need to wear multiple hats.</li><li>The toxic nature of celebrity fandoms and the impact of privilege in the fashion industry are significant issues.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Club Kid Journey</li><li>03:28 Traditional Fashion Degrees vs. Creativity</li><li>05:54 Real Fashion Brand vs. TikTok Fashion Brand</li><li>09:00 Shaping Fashion Journey in Belgium</li><li>10:02 Influential Designers and Theatrical Elements</li><li>12:13 Business and Creative Niche</li><li>15:03 Dressing Lady Gaga and Julia Fox</li><li>20:50 Identity and Responsibility of Brands</li><li>33:41 Experience with a Celebrity's Team</li></ul>no00:34:4417Speaking Of Fashion #7 JUDASSIMEfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #6 Alan Taylor]]>The conversation delves into the intersection of fashion and sports, exploring Alan's journey into fashion, his experience at Simone Roshan and McQueen, the transition to a baseball streetwear brand, the influence of athletes in fashion, the impact of athleisure and active wear, missed opportunities in sports and fashion collaboration, and the misconceptions of running an independent label. The conversation covers the challenges of fashion design, the impact of social media, support for emerging designers, the relevance of fashion schools, and navigating social media algorithms. Key takeaways include the importance of a logistical mindset and the challenges faced by designers during Fashion Week.

Takeaways

  • Fashion and sports have a strong connection
  • The intersection of fashion and sports culture is a growing trend Logistical mindset
  • Fashion Week challenges

Chapters

  • 00:00 Alan's Journey into Fashion
  • 05:38 Alan's Experience at Simone Roshan and McQueen
  • 08:44 Transition to Baseball Streetwear Brand
  • 17:53 Athletes as Fashion Influencers
  • 21:12 Athleisure and Active Wear in Fashion
  • 23:28 Missed Opportunities in Sports and Fashion Collaboration
  • 26:52 Misconceptions of Running an Independent Label
  • 27:22 The Reality of Fashion Design
  • 29:28 The Impact of Social Media
  • 31:14 Support for Emerging Designers
  • 37:09 Relevance of Fashion Schools
  • 46:35 Navigating Social Media Algorithms
]]>042f296c-5665-454c-af9e-e6951dc6a787Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:54:24 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the intersection of fashion and sports, exploring Alan's journey into fashion, his experience at Simone Roshan and McQueen, the transition to a baseball streetwear brand, the influence of athletes in fashion, the impact of athleisure and active wear, missed opportunities in sports and fashion collaboration, and the misconceptions of running an independent label. The conversation covers the challenges of fashion design, the impact of social media, support for emerging designers, the relevance of fashion schools, and navigating social media algorithms. Key takeaways include the importance of a logistical mindset and the challenges faced by designers during Fashion Week.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Fashion and sports have a strong connection</li><li>The intersection of fashion and sports culture is a growing trend Logistical mindset</li><li>Fashion Week challenges</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Alan's Journey into Fashion</li><li>05:38 Alan's Experience at Simone Roshan and McQueen</li><li>08:44 Transition to Baseball Streetwear Brand</li><li>17:53 Athletes as Fashion Influencers</li><li>21:12 Athleisure and Active Wear in Fashion</li><li>23:28 Missed Opportunities in Sports and Fashion Collaboration</li><li>26:52 Misconceptions of Running an Independent Label</li><li>27:22 The Reality of Fashion Design</li><li>29:28 The Impact of Social Media</li><li>31:14 Support for Emerging Designers</li><li>37:09 Relevance of Fashion Schools</li><li>46:35 Navigating Social Media Algorithms</li></ul>no00:53:2016Speaking Of Fashion #6 Alan Taylorfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #5 Maximilian Raynor]]>The conversation covers Max Raynor's journey into fashion, his experience at CSM, the impact of social media on the fashion industry, and the challenges of running a fashion business. It also delves into the role of creative directors, the pressure to design for social media, and the formation of trends in the industry. The conversation covers the topics of celebrity dressing, the process for young designers to dress celebrities, the challenges and opportunities of getting on the fashion week calendar, and the aspirations of a designer to lead a fashion house or collaborate with heritage brands. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the fashion industry, including the role of creative directors, the importance of community and support, the impact of privilege, and the pursuit of a career in fashion. It also emphasizes the need for authenticity, finding one's own path, and the significance of taste and inspiration.

Takeaways

  • Fashion education and experience are deeply personal and can shape a designer's creative journey.
  • The impact of social media on the fashion industry has led to a shift in focus from creativity to virality and marketing.
  • The pressure to follow trends and design for social media can be a challenge for designers, especially when running a fashion business. Celebrity dressing involves being tactful with design, being visible on social media, and avoiding paying for celebrity endorsements.
  • Getting on the fashion week calendar requires being present, visible, and involved in the industry, as well as seeking scholarships and support initiatives.
  • The designer aspires to lead a fashion house, collaborate with heritage brands, and explore new and unique ways of generating revenue through collaborations and sponsorships. Creative directors play a crucial role in the fashion industry
  • Community and support are essential for success in the fashion industry

Chapters

  • 00:00 Journey into Fashion
  • 02:00 CSM Experience
  • 06:00 Impact of Social Media on Fashion
  • 11:20 Challenges of Running a Fashion Business
  • 17:04 Role of Creative Directors and Trend Formation
  • 24:27 Celebrity Dressing and Visibility
  • 25:21 Challenges of Getting on the Fashion Week Calendar
  • 45:47 Aspirations to Lead a Fashion House and Collaborate with Heritage Brands
  • 50:06 The Role of Creative Directors
  • 51:11 Community and Support in Fashion
  • 52:06 The Impact of Privilege
  • 53:34 Pursuing a Career in Fashion
  • 55:02 The Importance of Taste and Inspiration
  • 56:27 Challenges and Support in the Fashion Industry
  • 57:32 Finding Inspiration and Support
  • 58:04 The Role of Privilege in Fashion
  • 59:01 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion
  • 01:00:23 The Importance of Community and Support
  • 01:01:19 The Impact of Privilege in Fashion
  • 01:02:18 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion
  • 01:03:08 The Role of Support and Privilege
  • 01:04:19 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion
  • 01:05:08 The Impact of Privilege in Fashion
  • 01:06:38 Concluding Remarks
]]>402b3c34-f227-459c-823a-3f6220cc995fSun, 09 Aug 2026 16:11:12 GMT<p>The conversation covers Max Raynor's journey into fashion, his experience at CSM, the impact of social media on the fashion industry, and the challenges of running a fashion business. It also delves into the role of creative directors, the pressure to design for social media, and the formation of trends in the industry. The conversation covers the topics of celebrity dressing, the process for young designers to dress celebrities, the challenges and opportunities of getting on the fashion week calendar, and the aspirations of a designer to lead a fashion house or collaborate with heritage brands. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the fashion industry, including the role of creative directors, the importance of community and support, the impact of privilege, and the pursuit of a career in fashion. It also emphasizes the need for authenticity, finding one's own path, and the significance of taste and inspiration.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Fashion education and experience are deeply personal and can shape a designer's creative journey.</li><li>The impact of social media on the fashion industry has led to a shift in focus from creativity to virality and marketing.</li><li>The pressure to follow trends and design for social media can be a challenge for designers, especially when running a fashion business. Celebrity dressing involves being tactful with design, being visible on social media, and avoiding paying for celebrity endorsements.</li><li>Getting on the fashion week calendar requires being present, visible, and involved in the industry, as well as seeking scholarships and support initiatives.</li><li>The designer aspires to lead a fashion house, collaborate with heritage brands, and explore new and unique ways of generating revenue through collaborations and sponsorships. Creative directors play a crucial role in the fashion industry</li><li>Community and support are essential for success in the fashion industry</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Journey into Fashion</li><li>02:00 CSM Experience</li><li>06:00 Impact of Social Media on Fashion</li><li>11:20 Challenges of Running a Fashion Business</li><li>17:04 Role of Creative Directors and Trend Formation</li><li>24:27 Celebrity Dressing and Visibility</li><li>25:21 Challenges of Getting on the Fashion Week Calendar</li><li>45:47 Aspirations to Lead a Fashion House and Collaborate with Heritage Brands</li><li>50:06 The Role of Creative Directors</li><li>51:11 Community and Support in Fashion</li><li>52:06 The Impact of Privilege</li><li>53:34 Pursuing a Career in Fashion</li><li>55:02 The Importance of Taste and Inspiration</li><li>56:27 Challenges and Support in the Fashion Industry</li><li>57:32 Finding Inspiration and Support</li><li>58:04 The Role of Privilege in Fashion</li><li>59:01 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion</li><li>01:00:23 The Importance of Community and Support</li><li>01:01:19 The Impact of Privilege in Fashion</li><li>01:02:18 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion</li><li>01:03:08 The Role of Support and Privilege</li><li>01:04:19 The Pursuit of a Career in Fashion</li><li>01:05:08 The Impact of Privilege in Fashion</li><li>01:06:38 Concluding Remarks</li></ul>no01:07:0015Speaking Of Fashion #5 Maximilian Raynorfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #4 Brian Carvalho]]>The conversation covers the journey of a self-taught fashion designer, the impact of meeting John Galliano, the challenges of being a working class designer, the exploitation and responsibility in fashion, the impact of collaborations and exposure, the role of London as a hub for emerging designers, and the inspiration from eighteenth-century costuming. It also delves into the elitism and gatekeeping in the fashion industry, as well as the hiring based on attitude and hunger rather than formal education. The conversation delves into the designer's creative process, inspiration, and the emotional impact of fashion. It also explores the designer's vision for the BDC woman, the influence of queer identity in fashion, and the evolution of the corset as a symbol of empowerment and liberation.

Takeaways

  • The fashion industry is evolving to include more self-taught and non-traditional designers.
  • The challenges of being a working class designer in a glamorous and elitist industry. Drawing inspiration from the past for modern fashion
  • The emotional impact of fashion and the importance of creating an emotional reaction in the audience.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Influence of John Galliano
  • 01:00 Fashion Journey and Self-Taught Sewing
  • 01:30 Impact of Meeting John Galliano
  • 03:02 Fashion Education and Creativity
  • 05:35 Hiring Based on Attitude and Hunger
  • 07:14 Challenges of a Working Class Designer
  • 09:54 Exploitation and Responsibility in Fashion
  • 12:23 Impact of Collaborations and Exposure
  • 19:29 London as a Hub for Emerging Designers
  • 23:30 Elitism and Gatekeeping in Fashion
  • 28:41 Inspiration from Eighteenth Century Costuming
  • 28:48 Drawing Inspiration from the Past
  • 30:42 The Razor Blade Dress
  • 32:41 Unconventional Materials and Artistic Expression
  • 33:39 Influential Designers and Rebellion in Fashion
  • 35:44 The BDC Woman: Unapologetic and Confident
  • 38:20 Emotional Impact of Fashion
  • 40:23 Queer Identity and Fashion
  • 43:30 The Evolution of the Corset
]]>b2a8e2bf-9cc2-46cf-b324-2b7c7546a8f1Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:00:43 GMT<p>The conversation covers the journey of a self-taught fashion designer, the impact of meeting John Galliano, the challenges of being a working class designer, the exploitation and responsibility in fashion, the impact of collaborations and exposure, the role of London as a hub for emerging designers, and the inspiration from eighteenth-century costuming. It also delves into the elitism and gatekeeping in the fashion industry, as well as the hiring based on attitude and hunger rather than formal education. The conversation delves into the designer's creative process, inspiration, and the emotional impact of fashion. It also explores the designer's vision for the BDC woman, the influence of queer identity in fashion, and the evolution of the corset as a symbol of empowerment and liberation.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>The fashion industry is evolving to include more self-taught and non-traditional designers.</li><li>The challenges of being a working class designer in a glamorous and elitist industry. Drawing inspiration from the past for modern fashion</li><li>The emotional impact of fashion and the importance of creating an emotional reaction in the audience.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Influence of John Galliano</li><li>01:00 Fashion Journey and Self-Taught Sewing</li><li>01:30 Impact of Meeting John Galliano</li><li>03:02 Fashion Education and Creativity</li><li>05:35 Hiring Based on Attitude and Hunger</li><li>07:14 Challenges of a Working Class Designer</li><li>09:54 Exploitation and Responsibility in Fashion</li><li>12:23 Impact of Collaborations and Exposure</li><li>19:29 London as a Hub for Emerging Designers</li><li>23:30 Elitism and Gatekeeping in Fashion</li><li>28:41 Inspiration from Eighteenth Century Costuming</li><li>28:48 Drawing Inspiration from the Past</li><li>30:42 The Razor Blade Dress</li><li>32:41 Unconventional Materials and Artistic Expression</li><li>33:39 Influential Designers and Rebellion in Fashion</li><li>35:44 The BDC Woman: Unapologetic and Confident</li><li>38:20 Emotional Impact of Fashion</li><li>40:23 Queer Identity and Fashion</li><li>43:30 The Evolution of the Corset</li></ul>no00:44:4014Speaking Of Fashion #4 Brian Carvalhofull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #1 Dickson Lim]]>In this episode of Speaking Of Fashion, we sit down with Dickson Lim to talk about fashion, identity, creative direction, and the vision behind building a brand with purpose.

A conversation on finding your voice, trusting your perspective, and creating work that feels true to you.

Hosted by Shreya "Brown Fashion Gal" Shrivastava.

]]>9c6c00eb-bff3-4717-b371-5cb90ab18f7eTue, 21 Jul 2026 16:48:30 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Speaking Of Fashion</i>, we sit down with Dickson Lim to talk about fashion, identity, creative direction, and the vision behind building a brand with purpose.</p><p></p><p>A conversation on finding your voice, trusting your perspective, and creating work that feels true to you.</p><p></p><p>Hosted by Shreya "Brown Fashion Gal" Shrivastava.</p>no00:52:3511Speaking Of Fashion #1 Dickson Limfull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #2 Alfonso Nava]]>The conversation delves into the journey of Alfonso Maria Nava from law to fashion, the concept of fashion as art, the impact of AI on fashion and design, the role of taste and emotion in fashion, and the balance between being a designer and a content creator. The conversation covers the challenges of balancing content creation and design, the struggle of content creation, the pressure to produce in fashion, learning the technical aspects of fashion, the social element of fashion, the mission of fashion, and the impact of fast fashion. Key takeaways include the necessity of content creation and the importance of sustainability in fashion.

Takeaways

  • Fashion as a form of art
  • Impact of AI on fashion and design
  • Emotional connection in fashion Content creation as a necessity
  • The importance of sustainability in fashion

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Journey to Fashion
  • 08:21 Fashion as Art
  • 12:38 AI and Fast Fashion
  • 17:21 The Role of Taste and Emotion in Fashion
  • 22:20 Inspirational Designers and Content Creation
  • 25:38 Balancing Content Creation and Design
  • 26:58 The Struggle of Content Creation
  • 34:39 The Pressure to Produce in Fashion
  • 37:02 Learning the Technical Aspects of Fashion
  • 40:53 The Social Element of Fashion
  • 47:26 The Mission of Fashion
  • 51:27 The Impact of Fast Fashion
]]>10db1c89-10f0-4c97-a4fd-bf7533b4c5a3Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:38:14 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the journey of Alfonso Maria Nava from law to fashion, the concept of fashion as art, the impact of AI on fashion and design, the role of taste and emotion in fashion, and the balance between being a designer and a content creator. The conversation covers the challenges of balancing content creation and design, the struggle of content creation, the pressure to produce in fashion, learning the technical aspects of fashion, the social element of fashion, the mission of fashion, and the impact of fast fashion. Key takeaways include the necessity of content creation and the importance of sustainability in fashion.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Fashion as a form of art</li><li>Impact of AI on fashion and design</li><li>Emotional connection in fashion Content creation as a necessity</li><li>The importance of sustainability in fashion</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Journey to Fashion</li><li>08:21 Fashion as Art</li><li>12:38 AI and Fast Fashion</li><li>17:21 The Role of Taste and Emotion in Fashion</li><li>22:20 Inspirational Designers and Content Creation</li><li>25:38 Balancing Content Creation and Design</li><li>26:58 The Struggle of Content Creation</li><li>34:39 The Pressure to Produce in Fashion</li><li>37:02 Learning the Technical Aspects of Fashion</li><li>40:53 The Social Element of Fashion</li><li>47:26 The Mission of Fashion</li><li>51:27 The Impact of Fast Fashion</li></ul>no00:54:5312Speaking Of Fashion #2 Alfonso Navafull<![CDATA[Speaking Of Fashion #3 Alvin Ho]]>The conversation delves into the journey of a fashion designer, exploring the themes of creativity, inspiration, the business of fashion, and the return of fantasy in the industry. It also highlights the significance of couture and bridal wear, the identity of the 'House of Alvin' woman, and the challenges of navigating the fashion industry without traditional connections or financial backing. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating the fashion industry, overcoming limiting beliefs, the significance of a business degree, and the cultural and family expectations associated with pursuing a career in fashion. It also explores the transition to a full-time pursuit of fashion.

Takeaways

  • Fashion as a World of Theatre and Fantasy
  • The Business of Fashion and Brand Building Fashion industry gatekeeping
  • Overcoming limiting beliefs
  • The importance of a business degree
  • Navigating cultural and family expectations
  • Challenges of pursuing a career in fashion

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Beginnings of a Fashion Journey
  • 03:05 The Theatrics of Fashion
  • 05:52 Inspiration and Creativity in Fashion
  • 08:50 The Return of Fantasy in Fashion
  • 11:59 Couture and Bridal Wear
  • 15:01 The House of Alvin Woman
  • 19:56 The Business of Fashion
  • 24:56 Navigating the Fashion Industry
  • 33:30 Overcoming Challenges and Gatekeeping
  • 40:31 Cultural Expectations and Pursuing Fashion
  • 49:04 Transitioning to Full-Time Fashion Pursuit
]]>639dbce1-7f0e-4452-ab11-f490bb175793Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:29:44 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the journey of a fashion designer, exploring the themes of creativity, inspiration, the business of fashion, and the return of fantasy in the industry. It also highlights the significance of couture and bridal wear, the identity of the 'House of Alvin' woman, and the challenges of navigating the fashion industry without traditional connections or financial backing. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating the fashion industry, overcoming limiting beliefs, the significance of a business degree, and the cultural and family expectations associated with pursuing a career in fashion. It also explores the transition to a full-time pursuit of fashion.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Fashion as a World of Theatre and Fantasy</li><li>The Business of Fashion and Brand Building Fashion industry gatekeeping</li><li>Overcoming limiting beliefs</li><li>The importance of a business degree</li><li>Navigating cultural and family expectations</li><li>Challenges of pursuing a career in fashion</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Beginnings of a Fashion Journey</li><li>03:05 The Theatrics of Fashion</li><li>05:52 Inspiration and Creativity in Fashion</li><li>08:50 The Return of Fantasy in Fashion</li><li>11:59 Couture and Bridal Wear</li><li>15:01 The House of Alvin Woman</li><li>19:56 The Business of Fashion</li><li>24:56 Navigating the Fashion Industry</li><li>33:30 Overcoming Challenges and Gatekeeping</li><li>40:31 Cultural Expectations and Pursuing Fashion</li><li>49:04 Transitioning to Full-Time Fashion Pursuit</li></ul>no00:54:5413Speaking Of Fashion #3 Alvin Hofull