FashionCast

Fashioncast®Episode #35, July 8, 2021Dr. Dawnn Karen, A Fashion Therapy Session with the World's First Fashion PsychologistIn this episode, the highly acclaimed Dr. Dawnn Karen joins Fashioncast® to explain, against all odds, how she single-handedly pioneered and founded the Fashion Psychology Field®. Dr. Karen began to inadvertently merge her psychology education with her fashion experience using the two disciplines to cope after a personal tragedy in 2010.  Since then, she has grown her practice, become a professor of Fashion Psychology at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and has written two books.  Dr. Karen's story is more than one of professional success, it's a story of personal triumph.It's a joy to hear Dr. Karen speak. She's intelligent, energetic, engaging, passionate, and quick with memorable and relevant stories to share.  Moreover, she so closely aligns with the diverse fields of fashion and psychology, it seems obvious she would discover fashion psychology as a new and legitimate discipline of study and practice.Listen and learn as Dr. Karen goes in-depth regarding her latest book, Dress Your Best Life.  The psychologist/author explains a myriad of topics including the significant differences between a fashion psychologist and a fashion stylist, how to make conscious fashion decisions utilizing “mood illustration” and “mood enhancement,” why wearing your favorite clothes shouldn't always be left for special occasions and the importance of managing color in everyday dress.   The episode further explores how to manage compulsive shopping habits and fast fashion “feel good” purchases, the use of psychology by famous designers, and cultural fashion mores, and the potential use of fashion to ensure conformity.  In addition, we explore the issues related to casual dress and the psychological and business outcomes from “dressing down.”Lastly, you'll love Dr. Karen's single most important fashion psychology suggestion as it's the perfect response from a consummate health/fashion professional.  Please enjoy the therapy session!Fashionpsychologysuccess.comInstagram @ dawnn_karenTwitter @ dawnn_karenAmazon.com: Dress Your Best Life: How to Use Fashion Psychology to Take Your Look -- and Your Life -- to the Next Level (9780316530996): Karen, Dawnn: Books

Fashioncast®Episode #34, June 3, 2021Dr. Valerie Steele, From Student Epiphany to Global Fashion LegendIn one of our most fascinating and fun episodes, Dr. Valerie Steele, fashion icon and legendary director and chief curator of The Museum at FIT joins Fashioncast® to talk fashion history.  The author/co-author of over 20 books on a myriad of fashion topics, Dr. Steele is unmatched in her comprehensive knowledge of the past, present, and future of the fashion industry.So, just how did Dr. Steele find her path to the world of fashion?  It's an incredible story of sudden epiphany, risk, ability, and commitment over many years.  Dr. Steele began her career at FIT in 1985 and has had a front-row seat to the global fashion industry through the college, museum, and New York City as a fashion destination ever since.  Given her vast experience, fashion intellect, and disarming personality, it's little wonder Steele is continuously in demand to comment, write, and lecture.In this episode, it's enlightening to hear Dr. Steele reflect on the consistent top international rankings for FIT and The Museum at FIT and how such academic stature provides opportunity and impacts the management of the institution.  In addition, Steele discusses the museum's response to the COVID pandemic and how the success of virtual exhibitions and related technology are likely to play key roles in the future of fashion presentations.While Dr. Steele continues to build and expand The Museum at FIT, it's clear, from an outsider's perspective, Steele is more than simply passionate about the subject of fashion, she's on a mission.  For example, her fashion acumen shines as she describes the “American style” especially the historical underpinnings that brought about the current eclectic mix and range of apparel available.  She is masterful and entertaining at the same time.The interview also covers fashion topics beyond history and style that Dr. Steele is well-informed including fast fashion, or as she describes it “junk fashion,” and its direct impact on the environment, working conditions, and the global fashion culture. Fashion technology is briefly discussed such as novel fabrics, smart clothes, and 3D printing and their adaptation and usefulness.Lastly, Dr. Steele gives her distinguished perspective as a leader in the international fashion industry on what troubles and inspires her most about the state of fashion and her insights on the future of the fashion.It was truly a great honor to interview Dr. Valerie Steele, a giant in the world of fashion.  Please enjoy!https://www.fitnyc.edu/museum/      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valerie_Steele

Fashioncast®Episode #33, April 9, 2021Mark Pilkington,  Part II: A Retail Therapist’s Diagnosis of the Industry’s MaladiesHe’s back!  In the last half of a two-part series, Mark Pilkington, author of Retail Therapy--Why the Retail Industry is Broken--And What Can Be Done to Fix it, gets specific as he delves deep into exactly how to “fix” the retail industry.In Part I (Episode #30), Pilkington retraced how the global retail industry ended up in its unenviable position pre-COVID19, and where it currently stands amid the pandemic. In this episode, the author explains a myriad of retail strategies for brick-n-mortar retailers including “Lean Store,” “Brand Theater,” “Becoming the Conversation,” and “Virtuous Reality” among others.  It’s a refreshing departure from Part I in which the industry’s hubris was on display as the central excuse for its unparalleled demise. While Pilkington continues to be unapologetic in his criticism of the retail industry, he expresses authentic encouragement by its acceptance to “go with the flow” and speed the pace of change of both e-commerce and in-store experiences.  Take the “Lean Store” model on full display at Bonobos (now owned by Walmart).  It’s a perfect example of the future of brick-n-mortar retail in real-time. Customers use the physical store experience only to test products and make selections.  No stock other than the display is on hand.  Orders are placed in-store and sent to customers.  It’s still a personal experience for the customer, but less costly for both parties.If you get the impression Pilkington is seriously suggesting retailers get experiential, he’s sounding the alarm for them to build community and find an authentic mission.  The “retail bar” has been raised, mightily high.  Retail is a tough business.  A business in which consumers are informed, competition is continuous, and differentiation is critical.  Pilkington makes a convincing argument, both in the book and on the podcast, that retailers must offer more than products. Finally, Pilkington makes strong retorts for a host of other challenges facing the industry including government macro/microeconomic policies, lack of comprehensive retail education in institutions of higher learning, the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, and the transformation of retail entirely into branding.It’s another fact-packed episode of Fashioncast®!  Please enjoy!  You can buy Mark Pilkington’s book at the link below and see the author on a short retail video produced by The Economist attached. Retail Therapy: Why the Retail Industry is Broken – and What ...www.amazon.com › Retail-Therapy-Industry-Broken-...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad-GuV6YIMI

Fashioncast®Episode #32, March 24, 2021Melissa Coulier, An American Photography PhenomMelissa Coulier is one of those rare individuals who leave an indelible impression wherever she travels. From her hometown of Livingston, Montana, on the edge of Yellowstone National Park and in the heart of Big Sky Country, to the hustle of Hollywood’s celebrity culture, Coulier has found her way and made her mark.Known as one of America’s most notable children’s fashion photographers, Coulier is brilliant, creative, spunky, extremely positive, and most importantly, confident.  The photography phenom, who began her authentic artistic journey at age 11, has used the past 25 years to hone both her photographic skillset and her artistic expression and it shows.   It’s particularly inspiring listening to Coulier reflect on the creatives in her family, her small-town upbringing, and the natural surroundings that influenced her aesthetic style.  She is mindful of the effect of nature and nurture on her career and seems genuinely grateful.In one of the most compelling segments of the interview, Coulier retraces her entry into the world of children’s fashion photography as complete happenstance but one that has defined her career.  It’s a powerful lesson on personal trust, perseverance, and risk-taking that creatives and “fashionpreneurs” must-hear.In addition to the creative challenges of children’s fashion photography, Coulier details the not-so-obvious legal, professional, and familial obstacles that are often necessary to overcome including work hours for minors, tutoring on set, handling parents, and an unusually energetic group of models!  It’s apparent the work requires abilities beyond the title “photographer,” and Coulier delivers.Lastly, Fashioncast® listeners will enjoy Coulier’s answers to a flurry of questions about women in fashion photography, how are “forever moments” captured, and the most apparent technological threat the industry faces over the next five years.Please enjoy what is sure to become a Fashioncast® classic!Instagram @melissacoulier

Nicole Giordano is the undisputed business champion for independent fashion designers.  Born and raised in Philadelphia, Giordano entered the fashion profession as a textile designer and soon learned the industry was more bureaucratic and imposing than she liked.  So, she did something about it!  She launched the Startup FASHION blog to discuss business challenges many designers encounter.  The blog eventually grew into a successful membership sponsored company assisting a community of over 500 designers and fashion creatives.Giordano is a smart, articulate, witty and inordinately passionate about Startup FASHION and the role it plays in the lives of “fashionpreneurs” saying, “our mission is to help entrepreneurs design lives they love by building businesses that succeed.” Giordano seems to relish her role as designer advocate and brings a fresh perspective to the fashion world reminding us all that fashion is business!  In multiple occasions throughout the interview, listeners will literally feel the passion as Giordano makes the case why independent designers must learn and manage the distinction between a fashion business and a fashion career.At its core, Startup FASHION is providing the fashion business education designers should have cultivated in college. For Giordano, the lack of formal business training is clearly a sore and baffling subject that has been discussed in academia ad nauseum.  However, one still wonders why most fashion design programs across the world fail to incorporate any business education?  The oversight and/or indifference to the business side of the industry has left a white space that Giordano and Startup FASHION are happy to fill. But fashion academia’s apathy towards churning out designers without an ounce of business acumen remains obvious.Beyond the business of fashion, the interview covers a variety of industry related topics including sustainability, fashion ethics and the impact of COVID-19.  And, of course, Giordano responds and speaks intelligently to each issue.In the massive international ever-changing fashion industry, it is comforting for independent designers to know there is a serious and experienced support community like Startup FASHION to assist in managing such a challenging environment.  More important, Nicole Giordano is the CEO!  Enjoy!www.startupfashion.comListen to the new podcast Startup FASHION: Do it Your Way on Apple Podcasts 

If you are wondering how to navigate the ever-changing world of retail, where reports of mergers, closings, and bankruptcies are far too frequent, then you’ll appreciate Fashioncast’s® exclusive interview with Mark Pilkington, author of Retail Therapy--Why the Retail Industry is Broken--And What Can Be Done to Fix it. In Part I of this two part series, with no holds barred, Pilkington broadly explains exactly how the worldwide retail industry ended up “on the ropes” pre-COVID19, and where it stands now in the midst of the pandemic.  Although the author lives in England, interviewing Pilkington via Skype from Dubai, a region of the world he worked in as a retail executive for years, was fitting as his book intelligently covers the international scope of the retail industry.  Pilkington has earned his “retail stripes” with experience inside and outside the industry for decades and it shows.   Typical of Fashioncast® interviews, the conversation is wide-ranging but fashion focused.  In particular, the author details the retail industry’s culture, bureaucracy, and indifference to the explosion of online retailing that has forever changed retail and its impact on the world of fashion.  For fashion, the fallout is a montage of lower costs and deeper consumer relationships mixed with startling competition. While the economic pros and cons of a rapidly changing retail landscape continue to play themselves out, one thing is certain, the human toll is stunning.  Millions of job losses related to e-commerce and the broader technological revolution impacting retail on a global basis are problematic both short-term and long-term.  In addition, COVID19 has sped the pace of retail labor disruption exponentially. Lastly, when asked how one of the world’s premier retail consultants would launch their own retail company, Pilkington was quick to impart his wisdom.  The company would sell dominantly through the online channel, be mission-driven, deeply connected to its “community” (target market) and more personal in terms of rectifying errors and extending rewards or incentives.  By far, a mission-driven model seemed most important.  Amongst all the competitive e-commerce noise, a company must be able to authentically differentiate itself and touting a mission beyond profits is an attractive value proposition. Fashioncast® was honored to interview Mark Pilkington, and we eagerly look forward to Part II in the Spring of 2021.  Enjoy! Retail Therapy: Why the Retail Industry is Broken – and What ...www.amazon.com › Retail-Therapy-Industry-Broken-...

  Elizabeth Semmelhack: The World’s Foremost Shoe Curator   Go ahead, try it, Google the following, “the world’s foremost shoe curator?”  Who appears on your screen?  Elizabeth Semmelhack!  And, it’s no surprise.  The Creative Director and Senior Curator at the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto, Canada, began her career at the renowned gallery in 2000 with little knowledge in footwear and has become the shoe sage of the world.  Since her tenure, Semmelhack has curated over 20 exhibitions, written more than 30 articles and authored eleven books about historical and contemporary footwear. Semmelhack’s knowledge of the varied subjects related to footwear including key historical events, generational culture and fashion, manufacturing processes, and even societal class hierarchies is extraordinary.  Her shoe and fashion anecdotes are so mesmerizing, it’s impossible not to be captivated and left yearning for more.  In one segment, Semmelhack provides one of the most enlightening explanations for fashion attire and social class you’ll ever hear.  Adding depth to shoe knowledge and design on this special episode was guest host Aki Choklat, Fashion Accessories Chair, College for Creative Studies, Detroit, Michigan, and international shoe designer.  Aki provided a robust collegial shoe discussion with Elizabeth as the interview spanned the invention of high heels in the 10th century to the latest collaboration between celebrities and famous sneaker brands. Semmelhack’s passion in her quest to discover every last relevant detail about the ubiquitous shoe is obvious.  It’s fascinating, and fun, to hear her wax eloquent about human history in such an accurate manner based on footwear.  Indeed, in her latest book, Sneakers x Culture: Collab, released in 2019, Semmelhack brings her 20-year shoe curating knowledge full circle to contemporary dress and culture masterfully explaining the art of sneaker brand and celebrity collaboration.  From concept and design to manufacturing, marketing and sales, the book casts new light on the dominant role sneakers play in fashion and culture. Finally, Semmelhack ends the interview offering rare honest advice to those entering the pursuit of art history, curating, fashion or design--"it’s hard work!”  Those words should leave little doubt how Elizabeth Semmelhack became the world’s foremost shoe curator! Enjoy!

Diane Pernet is the definition of fashion royalty. Even in this era of COVID-19 induced social distancing, face masks and Zoom meetings, one is immediately struck by her grandeur. Her worldly intellect, her soft but confident voice, her disarming wit, and her ability to simply relate make Pernet semidivine. Beyond rank and poise, Pernet’s deliberate and unmistakable appearance, shrouded in black often wearing a mantilla-esque veil, rewards her as one of the most recognized fashion dignitaries in the world. A consummate creative, the multi-talented Pernet continually works on a plethora of on-going and new projects. Staying current in the rapidly changing world-of-fashion is no small feat. But, Pernet, an accomplished savvy business women, is seemingly everywhere at once while no detail goes unnoticed. Of all Pernet’s passions, few inspire her more than film. Pernet is considered one of the original pioneers of the fashion film genre. In 2008, her devotion to the craft led her to the creation and launch of the annual fashion film festival titled A Shaded View On Fashion Film (ASVOFF) www.ashadedviewonfashionfilm.com. This year will mark the observance of ASVOFF 12 and the film festival will air for the first time online on the FNL Network https://linktr.ee/fnlnetwork. Additionally, in response to COVID-19, Pernet is the creator behind Lockdown Home Movies. A total of 68 lockdown films were submitted to ASVOFF 12 and can be seen and voted on for the 2020 People’s Choice Awards on the FNL Network https://linktr.ee/fnlnetwork. Still, Pernet’s creative thirst goes unquenched. Not to have her career overshadowed by the “ordinary” pursuits of fashion design, fashion blogging, fashion film, et al., Pernet decided to launch a line of perfume in 2014, Diane Pernet Paris. The line began with four distinct scents and now has five including To Be Honest, Love Affair, In Pursuit of Magic, Shaded, and Wanted. It’s fascinating to hear Pernet describe her 30-year intrigue with the perfume industry before her eventual impulse to begin the arduous task of researching and building a perfume brand. https://www.averyperfumegallery.com/it/collections/perfume/brand_diane-pernet. Lastly, it’s both an exciting and challenging time to be part of the fashion industry. But, Pernet, a strong advocate of sustainable fashion, has some parting advice for designers in particular--begin with an ecological mindset. Given the environmental degradation directly sourced to the industry, significant change is long overdue, and sustainable fashion is the future of fashion. By-the-way, on a whim, Fashioncast facetiously asked Pernet when the world could expect her autobiography? Without missing a beat, Pernet affirmed a documentary film producer had already approached her more than once! It’s clear, there are more accolades to come for the First Lady of Fashion! Please enjoy the magnificent Diane Pernet. Diane Pernet @asvof; www.ashadedviewonfashion.com

From the outside looking in, Rocco Leo Gaglioti is the epitome of American success. The tall (6’5”) handsome fashion celebrity seems to know everybody who’s anybody in the world-of-fashion. But, Gaglioti’s story is more of intrigue and personal triumph than fashion lore. While Gaglioti describes his 26 years in the fashion industry in a very linear, matter-of-fact way, it’s been anything but an unencumbered ride to the top. In fact, Gaglioti is so humble, the listener may get the impression nobody is more surprised he ended up an influential fashion media mogul than Gaglioti himself! Gaglioti has come a long way from being a shy, speech impaired bullied kid in Winter Park, Florida. That kid learned martial arts to defend himself, and at the age of 17, after some serious nudging from his deaf mother (Gaglioti is a CODA--Child of a Deaf Adult), and not knowing a lick of Italian, he agreed to become a hair model in Milan, Italy and stayed for five years! But wait! There’s more! A lot more. What purposeful career would be without key mentors like Carson Kressley and RuPaul? Gaglioti credits a number of individuals for his success, but none more than Kressley and RuPaul. It’s a fascinating lesson on “paying it forward” and understanding career responsibility. By-the-way, who wouldn’t want to hang out with Kressley and RuPaul? Both men are brilliant and hilarious--a rare combination indeed. Gaglioti eventually parlays his knowledge and experience into a mountain of creativity including Fashion News Live, an award-winning fashion documentary, Inside Amato, the Fashion News Lifestyle Network (FNL Network), and most recently, International Digital Fashion Week (IDFW). Gaglioti is extremely excited about IDFW declaring the platform demonstrates “the future of fashion is here!” While other media outlets contemplate the future of runway shows, Gaglioti has already figured it out! IDFW provides a desperately needed alternative to traditional outdated fashion weeks, is interactive and allows the designer to book immediate sales. Lastly, Gaglioti, isn’t “all fashion all-the-time.” He serves as a consultant to the Miss and Mister Deaf International nonprofit organization his mother founded and has been actively involved in supporting the international deaf community for decades. Perhaps knowing where you come from, being humble, and appreciating others are the most important measures of success after all. Please enjoy this exclusive interview with Rocco Leo Gaglioti, a true fashion maven. To find all things FNL Network, visit: https://linktr.ee/fnlnetwork

From the western Prairie Province of Alberta, Canada, in the oil boom and bust city of Calgary, Lauryn Vaughn, Founder and CEO of The Upside, joins Fashioncast via Zoom to share her amazing story of online retail success. In 2015, against all odds, the smart and savvy super entrepreneur launched The Upside the old fashioned way--from her basement, and never looked back. Today, the business is the largest luxury online consignment retailer in the nation. Once you meet Lauryn Vaughn, you’ll know why. Vaughn is full of endless positive energy, articulate, knows the resale business, and most of all - she’s determined. At university, Vaughn was so resolute to become an intern for the great Canadian designer, Paul Hardy, when she finally met him and told him she was going to become his intern, he said, “Aah, okay, can you start in morning?” If listeners get the impression the scrappy and witty Vaughn manifests her reality in real-time, they’re correct. Fashioncast was spellbound listening to Vaughn describe her “aha” moment in Paris, France, the unending trials and tribulations of launching a business, and about The Upside’s ever-evolving multifaceted mission. For Vaugh, The Upside is more than just a challenging way to generate revenues and income. The business empowers women through “chic fashion on a budget,” and is the best example of sustainability driving circular fashion. One simply can’t help knowing Vaughn is the perfect definition of a role model for women across Canada and the world. While Vaughn’s personal strength may be will power, her business acumen is on display as she explains the global luxury resale market. Like many entrepreneurs, Vaughn lives her business and it’s fascinating to hear her detail the differences between The Upside and mega competitors such as The RealReal and The Luxury Closet. Vaughn’s vast market knowledge is a testament to her leadership. And, despite a recession in Calgary’s oil fields and a worldwide pandemic, The Upside continues to dominate Canada’s luxury resale online space and expand. Lastly, when asked who she would like to meet in the fashion industry, Vaughn mentioned she would have liked to have met Karl Lagerfeld, but then, without hesitation, the entrepreneur admitted she’d really love to meet Julie Wainwright, the founder of The RealReal! Enjoy! The Upside: http://www.shoptheupside.com Instagram @lauryn_vaughn

From her 18th century apartment in Paris, France, internationally acclaimed photographer, Iris Brosch, the impassioned articulate intellectual of art imagery, joins Fashioncast via Skype to share her multifaceted photography experience in the world-of-fashion. Brosch, the German-born photographer and filmmaker, specializing in fashion, nudes, art, and performance art, has been shaped by both the German and Italian Renaissance periods. Her portraits are instantly recognizable as they clearly show Brosch’s reach for artistic expression and spirit. In addition, her work is celebrated for giving more strength and dignity to the female image and feminist ideals. It’s fascinating to hear Brosch’s story of struggle from her early years to maturation as an industry icon. Through it all, the humble creative credits not only hard work but astute timing, acceptance and key mentorships. In addition to her own career challenges, Brosch, a long-time devout feminist, details the ongoing struggle for women to find standing within the industry. Her accounting of the barriers for women such as photographer Annie Leibovitz is stunning. For Brosch, the feminist ideology is firm but more about equality and inclusiveness than antipatriarchal. It’s tragic irony, however, after countless media reports confirming widespread inequality in an industry catering to female customers and dominated by female employees, financial and managerial control still decidedly rests with men. Beyond feminism, Brosch’s extensive international fashion experience allows her to answer any question regarding fashion and art in an informed manner. Listeners will hear Brosch’s views about the diminishing role of art in fashion, the rapid changes taking place in fashion photography and the shift towards fashion videos. Brosch, the consummate artist, forever advocates for creatives. For her, being creative is about a lack of fear, taking risks, and keeping overlords out of the equation. And, according to Brosch, it’s also why creatives will always spearhead the direction of the industry and the future of fashion imagery. Lastly, listeners will be inspired by Brosch’s reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic as she explains the importance of embracing the arts in times of tragedy and awed by her selection of whom to photograph if she could photograph any person in recorded history. Please enjoy this interview with artist, activist, and all-around beautiful human being, Iris Brosch! Website http://www.irisbrosch.com Instagram @irisbrosch Facebook @irisbrosch

From Flint, Michigan, under a continued COVID-19 quarantine, Ali Rose VanOverbeke, Founder and CEO at Genusee, the first circular economy eyewear brand, joins Fashioncast via Zoom to share her inspirational and motivational story of struggle, renewal, and awakening in her quest to build a company that matters. There’s no denying Ali VanOverbeke is on a mission. The Parsons School of Design graduate began planning her fashion career in the second grade and set her sights on Parsons in the fourth grade! Innovative, intelligent, visionary, and driven, the articulate VanOverbeke leaves the audience spellbound after detailing her time spent in the design trenches of New York’s ultra-competitive fashion world before a short sabbatical and finding karma in India. Ali’s story as a creative is as much about finding herself, and her role in the world, as it is about art and fashion. In 2016, after elevated levels of lead were confirmed in Flint, Michigan’s drinking water, both state and federal emergencies were declared. Notably, this is when the story takes a major turn, not only for VanOverbeke and for Flint, but likely for the future of fashion. On an unplanned and voluntary mission working with the American Red Cross delivering water to Flint residences, Ali’s genesis of Genusee takes place and her “calling” is absolute. Genusee is the most unique and compelling fashion fable we’ve encountered. If you’re not awed by its multifaceted missions regarding job creation for Flint’s structurally unemployed, or its manufacturing of sustainable eyewear from single-use water bottles, then surely, you’ll be awed by its product design and quality. While many of the principal fashion brands adopt social and sustainability policies and dole out checks of solidarity, upstart Genusee “walks the talk” and is defining a new and refreshing standard in the fashion industry. But, setting new standards is hard work and VanOverbeke seems to be pushing all boundaries at once. For example, the maverick manufacturer is justifiably critical of America’s recycling industry. Imagine, according to the EPA (2017 latest data), 75.8% of all plastic material generated in the U.S. Municipal Solid Waste stream was sent to landfills! Clearly, there’s much work to be done. Lastly, Ali briefly discusses the future of Genusee, the current importance of Instagram as the marketing tool of choice, utterly downplays the role of influencers and shares her hard-earned business acumen with those contemplating a career in fashion or entrepreneurship. Ali VanOverbeke is living Genusee’s motto–“Be the change you want to see.” Bravo!! On the web: Genusee.com On Instagram: @genusee_official

From Paris, France, under a COVID-19 quarantine, the fashion photography artist couple Mia Macfarlane and Julien Crouigneau join Fashioncast via Skype to share their amazing careers as art photography creatives living in the fashion capital of the world. The couple describes themselves as “self-taught” fashion art photographers, but don’t be fooled, they are both highly educated artists who happen to love photography and are clearly two of the most creative people we have ever had the pleasure to interview (see links to their work below). Combining their diverse and extensive backgrounds, in 2012, they launched French Cowboy a photography and art direction company. Then, in 2015, they founded IRK magazine as part of a nonprofit association titled IRK which promotes artists, fashion designers, photographers, filmmakers, and other creatives. The magazine, published daily online and bi-annually in print, has been an enormous success and lives up to its tagline, “IRK Magazine is here to rattle the every day!” Think fashion-forward, boundary-pushing art, edgy without apology, and photographic brilliance and you have IRK. But, it’s not just IRK where these two are redefining art photography, it’s in fashion film too. Through French Cowboy, they are methodically paving the way towards fashion films. Short film and video are the future of fashion imagery and the trailblazing creative couple are at the forefront of the artistic revolution. This podcast is one of those rare episodes where each time you listen, you learn something new. It’s mesmerizing to hear Macfarlane and Crouigneau detail their photoshoot with Jean Paul Gaultier, the famous French fashion designer. And, equally thought-provoking to hear their description of the cultural fashion differences between America and France. Lastly, we also delve into how the disastrous and tragic COVID-19 pandemic has affected the couple’s business. Like everyone else, they remain quarantined but hopeful the virus will taper off soon. The fashion industry, however, has been decimated and is unlikely to rebound quickly. Still, Mia and Julien remain positive, confident and stoic and have a myriad of projects waiting for completion including a future photoshoot in Ghana! How else would you build a legacy? Please enjoy and stay safe! Show links: IRK Magazine (@irkmagazine) On Instagram IRK Magazine: Art Photography | France Videos by French Cowboy: Las Vegas Cowgirl Video Viking Model Video

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Thomas Werner, renowned international fashion photographer, author, professor, and consultant calmly and dutifully made it to the Fashioncast studio and delivered one of the most compelling and entertaining podcasts to date. In this amazing episode, Werner weaves a dramatic and authentic narrative to his rise in the world-of-fashion and gives new meaning to the word perseverance! He’s been through lean times, had great success and is clearly comfortable with his current myriad of fashion endeavors. In fact, his curriculum vitae is 24 pages! Knowing that fact alone is worth the listen. Werner’s depth and breadth of experience in fashion photography is so voluminous he wrote the definitive book on the subject, The Fashion Image, which has received rave reviews and been sold widely on an international basis (Christine and Michael were sure to receive a signed copy!). But, authorship is just the tip of the iceberg for Werner. Listen as he effortlessly details the important artistic role photography plays in the fashion industry and describes the future of photographic technologies such as Instagram and video, and how varying countries embrace or suppress image technology. Werner also discusses The Thomas Werner Projects, one of the most innovative and internationally collaborative art and education sharing programs on the planet! The Projects story is fascinating and centers around Russia and China and demonstrates the power of intellect, political determinism, and the art-of-fashion to assist in the education of creatives eager to simply participate and learn about artistic expression. Lastly, while Werner’s photos capture the essence of fashion through images, he’s also a pragmatist. His grasp of the interdependence between fashion and photography is only surpassed by his knowledge about the business of fashion. In one of the largest and most competitive businesses in the world, artists, especially photographers, need to know their niche and deserve to earn a living. Fashioncast was honored to host one of the most notable fashion photographers in the industry, and more importantly, an all-around great human being. Enjoy! His book on Amazon: The Fashion Image: Planning and Producing Fashion Thomas Werner on Instagram (@thomaswernerprojects) Facebook: @ThomasWernerProjects   Thomas Werner Projects www.thomaswernerprojects.com

Listen up Fashioncast fans, court is in session!  Whether you’re steeped in the fashion industry’s legal jargon or not, this week’s guest, Andrea Arndt, Patent Attorney at Dickinson Wright, informs and demonstrates why anybody in the fashion industry with something to protect should get their legal house in order.   Arndt, with degrees in biomedical engineering, computer engineering, and law is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and specializes in foreign patent prosecution and intellectual property law in the fashion industry.  She brings all her background and experience to listeners as she explains the difference between patents, trademarks, and copyright and details the risks of not protecting your intellectual property (IP). Arndt knows her field and proves it as she and the Fashioncast hosts dig deep into recent case law including Versace v Fashion Nova and the industry changing Supreme Court copyright ruling on Star Athletica v Varsity Brands.  In addition, Arndt dissects the multi-million dollar Burberry v Target knock-off scarf case that was ultimately settled out-of-court (see case links below). The ever witty and energetic Arndt also has plenty of free legal advice for would be designers and fashion entrepreneurs including expected legal fees to protect IP, adding legal costs to startup budgets, and never allowing IP infringement to go unchallenged. Finally, Arndt also touches on international IP law including protection(s) to online retailers, where designers should focus their resources to maximize IP safeguards, and the lack of international fashion industry leadership on mitigation and binding arbitration. It’s a fast-paced show with a legal fashion industry expert that will leave Fashioncast listeners more educated, informed, and equipped to protect their fashion creations. For now, court adjourned.  Enjoy! https://www.dickinson-wright.com/our-people/andrea-I-arndt?tab=0 https://www.thefashionlaw.com/home/fashion-nova-responds-to-versace-lawsuit-with-32-defenses-2-countercliams-and-a-vow-to-fight https://www.nolo.com/legal-updates/supreme-court-rules-that-garment-design-elements-are-copyrightable.html https://www.khuranaandkhurana.com/2018/05/22/fashion-and-trademarks-the-clothing-controversy/

Welcome to Boston Fashioncast fans! Often referred to as a ‘brain factory” with 50 higher educational institutions and more than 250,000 college students, heady intellects are easy to find. But, this week’s guest, Jay Calderin, is literally a fashion genius. Immersed in the world-of-fashion since the age of 14, Jay Calderin is a “Who’s Who” in the fashion industry and arguably is the intellectual force behind Boston’s fashion scene. As the founder of Boston Fashion Week over 25 years ago, Director of Community Relations at the School of Fashion Design, Boston, and successful international author of numerous fashion design books (see links), Calderin’s fashion energy and “can do” spirit has catapulted Boston into an international fashion destination. You’ll be as awe-inspired as we were listening to Calderin explain significant industry transitions over the past several decades including the ever-increasing role of technology, an international advance towards sustainability, online fashion education, and the importance of local community involvement in fashion events. In addition, Calderin also details the fascinating role Boston now plays in the international fashion community. Given its vast student population, the college experience in many ways acts as a two-way exchange of ideas and culture as students graduate and ultimately disseminate a “Boston style” across the globe. Calderin is the ultimate guest. He’s a designer, entrepreneur, academic, author, and fashion community organizer! Moreover, he’s articulate, humorous, and easy to listen to. Essentially, he’s everything you would expect from a fashion genius. Enjoy! Here are his books:  Fashion Design Essentials: 100 Principles of Fashion Design Form, Fit, Fashion: All the Details Fashion Designers Need to Know But Can Never Find What They Didn't Teach You in Fashion School Native Fashion Now: North American Indian Style The Fashion Design Reference & Specification Book: Everything Fashion Designers Need to Know Every Day

All the way from Kula Lumpur, 9,275 miles from our podcast studio in Detroit, Adam Minter, best-selling author and journalist joins the show via Skype to answer a myriad of questions regarding the secondhand fashion industry including “Who will be the last to kill your hoodie?” In Secondhand, Minter traces the lifespan and travels of various secondhand items donated to US charities and thrift stores, with a particular interest in clothing, only to find they have very specific geographic destinations based on quality, condition, durability, and demographics. For those in the fashion industry beating the sustainability drum, the book is a wakeup call and demonstrates the challenging work and complexity of issues that face the industry. For example, Minter applauds the industry for advances in reuse and rentables through the growth of such businesses as The RealReal and Poshmark, but justifiably derides the industry for its lack of transparency regarding detailed fabric content and chemical toxins. Secondhand is extremely well written, and for a non-fiction book, it reads like an intriguing “who done it” novel. Ultimately, Minter is optimistic about the fashion industry and is betting on technology, especially blockchain, to boost sustainability. Christine and Michael were impressed with Adam Minter for his journalistic integrity, his deep knowledge of the secondhand fashion industry, and his overall talent as a writer. Please enjoy the podcast. You can find the book here.

Fashioncast fans, we can’t say enough about Nicole Jarecz a young and extremely talented artist with an old soul for fashion illustration.  It’s a fascinating interview with Nicole as she delves deep into her experience as an artist including her early years, her education at the College for Creative Studies (CCS), and her “lucky” but unusual path into fashion illustration. Nicole is a busy woman raising two young daughters and working from home.  Nevertheless, she’s found time to illustrate. After ten years as a fashion illustrator, Nicole has completed work for a Who’s Who in the fashion world including Marie Claire, Glamour, Madame Figaro, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Neiman Marcus, and Hugo Boss just to name a few!  In addition, she’s in high demand to sketch at many fashion openings and exhibitions in and around the Detroit area. In this interview, you’ll discover new information about the use of fashion illustration in marketing versus photography, how to leverage a niche vocation, and the importance of pursuing your passion.  As Nicole mentions, given the technological advances in photography and design, fashion illustration is a dying art. But, with creative talent like Nicole’s, we can all experience fashion through a different form of art. Please find Nicole on Instagram at nicolejareczillustraion and her website to share the experience and beauty of her incredible work.  Enjoy!

The Director of the new Detroit Fashion Community (DFC), Elizabeth Kincaid, is in the studio this week Fashioncast fans and she’s making headlines about the launch of the organization. While careful not to reveal too much before the official launch date, January 1, 2020, Elizabeth tells us plenty about DFC’s mission, objectives, and partner collaborators. Detroit Fashion Community’s Founder and President, Latrice Delgado-Macon, who has been a guest on Fashioncast several times, is the creative energy behind the organization. Together with Latrice and a dedicated board, Elizabeth will orchestrate day-to-day activities and help build the outreach and collaborative partnerships that will be instrumental in making Detroit a fashion destination. In addition to news about the DFC, Christine and Mike manage to tease out Elizabeth’s own background and experience in the fashion industry including how her Native American lineage has provided her inspiration for her own new business starting sometime in 2020. It’s a fascinating personal story with deep roots in West Virginia that winds its way to Detroit. We find out how, and along the way, we also discuss Elizabeth’s degree and work in psychology and the new role psychology is playing in fashion education. Of course, Mike asks a predictable sustainability question or two to wrap up the show. Whew! So much discussed about different areas of the industry on this show, we’re certain your weekly fashion update will be complete. Enjoy!

Julia Schenke, owner of Dresscode by Julia, rocks this episode of Fashioncast.  Julia is full of positive energy, a great sense of humor, and lots of in-depth personal style advice.  Julia, born in Germany, has an incredible background story to share about her entry into the world-of-fashion, her extensive experience in the German garment industry, and the eventual launch of her own styling business.  Julia’s sense of style is so unique, the style itself could be a brand! Christine and Mike credit Julia’s European background and the influence it continues to play in her style advice. It’s edgy, crisp, unique, coordinated, individual, and confident.  Just what every stylist is trying to exhibit, but few do, especially the way Julia does! Listen, learn and laugh as Julia schools us on style and more. Enjoy!

In one of the most inspirational and moving interviews you’ll ever hear, Mary Alice Stephenson, GLAM4GOOD Founder and the official “Mother Teresa of Fashion,” teams with Patrick Shaner, U.S. Communications Expansion Specialist at H&M, to give back to poverty-stricken children in Detroit. From the first question to the last, Mary Alice, a salt-of-the-earth person and part of the “Who’s Who” in the world-of-fashion passionately explains the genesis of GLAM4GOOD, the foundation’s mission, strategic collaboration with key fashion partners, and her special relationship with H&M. Listen as Mary Alice brings those in the studio to tears describing how GLAM4GOOD assists in providing clothing to a multitude of individuals in need from natural disaster survivors, injured veterans, and those caught in the cycle-of-poverty, to victims of domestic violence. However, as Mary Alice can personally attest, managing a nonprofit like GLAM4GOOD requires an army of volunteers, partners, and financial support to make a meaningful impact. Enter H&M, as Mary Alice describes, it was “divine intervention” when the company contacted GLAM4GOOD to collaborate nationally. H&M donated $100,000 worth of new clothing in just one day at the Detroit event! That’s commitment! While the donation was substantial, the genuine goodwill for the community, the company, and H&M employees is incalculable. So, Fashioncast fans, listen and learn about what really matters from Mary Alice Stephenson, the industry’s preeminent leader on fashion philanthropy. WARNING—tissues required!

Stunning! It’s the only word to can describe the two guests on this episode of Fashioncast. Mrs. Michigan 2019, Rachel Adenaas and recent winner of the Miss Michigan USA 2020 contest, Chanel Johnson, agreed to appear together and talk about life challenges, their paths to pageant victory, and of course, fashion! You couldn’t see it, but these two beautiful women came to the studio dressed in high style and a sense of fashion elegance. They even brought and wore their sashes! You’ll marvel at how each lady decided to compete for their respective crowns, the first-hand experience of training and competing, and how they seem to effortlessly juggle a year-long schedule of appearances and commitments on behalf of their once-in-a-lifetime position. Finally, we actually talk fashion including how specific outfits are chosen, designer sponsorship, and upcoming events! One of our most intriguing and motivational podcasts to date. Enjoy!

It’s a Friday night styling packed show Fashioncast fans! From the Foundation Hotel podcast studio in Detroit, Christine and Mike interview arguably the two most notable stylists in Michigan, Latrice Delgado-Macon, aka “Lady Latrice,” and Marv Neal, aka “Smiling Styling Marv.” Both have been in the personal style and celebrity stylist business for the past 20 years and have been collaborating for the past eight years. When it comes to the business of fashion, especially in Detroit, the Dynamic Duo is everywhere and knows all the players. Christine and Mike ask what seems like a million questions, but the Duo answers them all with ease and confidence. You’ll hear about 2019/2020 fashion trends, what’s in and what’s out, upcoming Detroit fashion events, the scrappy nature of being a stylists in today’s world-of-fashion, some breaking fashion news, and even Latrice’s reveal that in January 2020 she will begin teaching as a part-time fashion professor at Wayne State University. It’s a Detroit fashion scene update you won’t soon forget! Enjoy.

Listen close Fashioncast fans as the globe-trotting Canadian swimwear designer Ana Stulic is a rare interview in the world of fashion. A native of Croatia, raised in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, schooled in Europe and Asia, and now a frequent visitor to the USA, Christine and Mike have appointed Ana the unofficial title of "Ambassador of Fashion" for Canada! In this episode, you’ll hear how Ana, "for as long as she can remember," has been immersed in fashion, and with a little family encouragement, attended the Instituto Marangoni the private Italian school of fashion and design, one of the top ten fashion schools in the world. Ana is multi-lingual, beautiful, creative and intelligent. But her journey has been one of intrigue highlighted with its own peaks and valleys. Through it all, a positive and persistent Ana has stayed true to her love of fashion and design. As the interview progresses, Ana shares a gold mine of fashion wisdom nuggets for both experienced and emerging designers. After participating in Miami Swim Week 2019, Ana’s advice regarding the “fashion show circuit” is especially compelling as she debriefs us on the behind-the-scenes production and effort demanded from designers and their teams. Ana closes the interview reflecting on fashion networking, sustainability, and her beloved puppy Nino’s unexpected trip to the vet! If you’re like Christine and Mike, you’ll be left wondering how soon this fashion diplomat can make it back to the show!

It’s an interview for the record books Fashioncast fans. Co-hosts Christine and Mike are still trying to recover from the overflow of astounding fashion information from the one and only Aki Choklat. Literally, fresh off his recent triumph as being named Hour magazine’s Best-Dressed in Detroit (on the cover), Aki Choklat, international shoe and accessories designer, Chair of Fashion Accessories Design at the College for Creative Studies, entrepreneur, accomplished fashion author, and all-around fashion intellectual brings his “A” game to the studio.    From his humble beginnings in Jyväskylä, Finland, to his formal education studying political science and interning for a U.S. Senator in Washington, D.C., it’s an incredible journey that ultimately lands Aki in Europe as a well-known shoe designer.  Moreover, Aki’s a walking encyclopedia of fashion information from key historical fashion designers to current trends and influencers.   Finally, Aki’s an all-around nice guy with a voice for radio and a keen sense of humor.  What more could a listener ask for? In this episode, it’s the ultimate fashion interview with one of the very best.  Enjoy!

Well, just when the Fashioncast hosts thought they were done for the afternoon, along came RC Caylan, another 2019 FashionSpeak workshop presenter, with a story so powerful we decided to release it as a separate podcast. Listen and take the journey, and connect the dots to another unbelievable fashion story so powerful Christine and Mike sat wide-mouthed more than once! An incredible story is told of RC’s initial curiosity about fashion observing his grandmother a full-time seamstress and garment worker neighbors, to his frustrating starts and stops into and out of the industry, to meeting the love of his life and moving to Grand Rapids, MI. And, oh, and by-the-way, did we mention his off-the-charts success with his luxury bridal dresses and high-end couture? In just 3.5 years RC’s designs have been seen in Vogue and on runways around the world. He’s now a sought after celebrity designer and will be opening his first by appointment only shop in Grand Rapids by the end of 2019. You’ll love RC’s industrious attitude and his down-to-earth personality. No doubt, we’ll be hearing more from this emerging superstar designer. You can visit his website here: http://www.rccaylan.com/

We’re not sure how they accomplished this one Fashioncast fans, but FahsionSpeak was able to recruit Jolie Altman, the prized jewelry designer from Birmingham, MI to be the 2019 Conference’s Keynote Speaker. In this interview, Jolie explains her amazing and unintentional path into the fashion world. From designing and making jewelry for herself to a year-round business providing upscale one-of-a-kind jewelry at truck shows and special fashion events across the country. Jolie’s central message? “Make the art for yourself.” It seems obvious, but all too often designers find themselves creating for others instead of themselves, and lose the artistic edge in the process. Jolie’s story is full of twists and turns, some “luck” as she likes to say, and a ton of effort. No wonder she was invited to be the Keynote Speaker! And, as if the interview with Jolie wasn’t enough, Kay of Kay Kay Fashions weaves a fashion narrative that blew the hosts away. No spoilers here, but Kay's story from the world of politics and law to fashion is more than a head-turner. In addition, it’s not only how Kay ended-up in fashion, but it’s also about her extraordinary success, her beautiful personality, and a loving and supportive mother. Let the happy tears flow, two incredible stories chosen at random at a fashion conference. What are the odds?

If Karen Buscemi isn’t the epitome of leadership in Detroit’s world-of-fashion nobody is! Fashioncast fans will love Karen’s energy, focus and sense of mission. In fact, before she began the interview she mentioned ten minutes would be the most she could hang out, luckily we wrapped up in eight! Karen is the Founder and President of the Detroit Garment Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting education and opportunities in Detroit’s fashion community, and the CEO of Detroit Sewn, a full-time cut-and-sew manufacturer based in Pontiac, MI. Karen explains the objective of FashionSpeak & Verge, it’s phenomenal growth, and the support of key partners. Also, on Part 1 meet Aferdita Rakipi a long-time, well-traveled, and highly experienced brand PR consultant. As one of the Conference’s key workshop leaders for 2019, Aferdita lead the emerging designers on a Trade Show tour and demonstrated in detail how to engage consumers. The “Trade Show Pro” went down some glorious rabbit holes with Christine about her upbringing, education, background and eventual foray into fashion. Part I is a listener’s delight.

Join Fashioncast at the Second Annual Michigan Fashion Summit for a day of fashion energy and excitement. In Part I of the podcast Christine and Mike interview the gifted, talented and always energetic Loren Hicks, Founder of Michigan Fashion Week and the Michigan Fashion Summit, about her background in the fashion industry, her motivation to collaborate with anybody and everybody interested in fashion, and the her on-going projects. Next they interview Marv Neal, celebrity stylist, and all-around nice guy, about the many local and national celebrities on his “A” list, his introduction and tenure in the industry, and his commitment to the Detroit fashion scene. Finally, Summit attendee and emerging designer, Alex May, explains his “passion for fashion,” as he details his brand, tonymac.co, and reveals a new all-wool unisex bomber jacket. Christine brings her “A” game!

Perk up listeners, Lady Latrice is in the house! Fashion celebrity stylist and visual merchandiser Latrice Delgado-Macon graces the Fashioncast studios and schools the hosts and audience on the-world-of fashion styling. An entrepreneur stylist and speaker, visual merchandiser, personal development mentor, and radio host for her own show Fashion Talk, Lady Latrice hits it out of the park answering in-depth questions about: The roles stylists and designers perform Why visual merchandising is critical in all forms of retail Fashion trends 2020 and beyond Resale in retail And the ever daunting issue of sustainability in fashion. Finally, Lady Latrice is genuinely a beautiful person inside and out, smart, humorous, and extremely stylish! Put those running shoes on Fashioncast fans, you’re going to need them to keep up with this week’s fast-paced guest!

You’ll be very happy you joined the Fashioncast listening club for this episode folks! He’s a handsome, educated, experienced, humorous fashionista trendsetting actor, writer, and model—who could ask for a better podcast/YouTube guest? BTW—did we mention he has a great voice and knows how to use it too! Ryan Scott Lax, Michigan native, and all-around good guy, describes how he’s honed his unique “look.” He details exactly why an actor/celebrity/public figure needs to “work” on their image and build their own fashion identity. Throughout the interview, Ryan places the designer front-and-center as the catalyst between too much individualism and tasteful style. Finally, Ryan talks about his time in Los Angeles and describes the “LA look,” his love for New York City and its cutting-edge fashion culture, the real difference between acting on stage versus film, and his disdain for casual Fridays! You know you’re a hit when hard-hitting and fast-talking Christine invites you back to the show before the credits even start to roll! Encore!!

Few people earn the title “Instagram Influencer” and are officially included in Instagram’s coveted top 1%, but Fashioncast guest Sarah Hermiz is one of them! Listen and learn from one of the most energetic and positive fashion influencers we’ve met! Follow along as Sarah details her amazing journey, including all the trials and tribulations from her Myspace days to Instagram stardom. Sarah also discusses the use of Instagram for modeling with her two young daughters, the impact of social media in her household, and her expectations regarding social media and her children. In addition, Sarah displays some beautiful earring pieces from her recently launched Elevated Jewelry business, an online jewelry retailer and a local ear-piercing shop. Finally, as if that’s not enough, Sarah has been selected to participate in Detroit’s Finest, a local reality tv show, and Christine uses her vast powers of persuasion to obtain advance info! Warning—only listen if you can keep up!

Thinking of jetting off to Paris, France Fashioncast fans? Save your money! Erin Wetzel, fashion merchandiser and curator extraordinaire, and owner of Orleans + Winder, invites the Fashioncast hosts to her boutique in Detroit’s Eastern Market where she sells a plethora of high-end fashion items from some of Europe’s most notable and emerging designers. In this exclusive on-site episode, Erin shares her extensive experience as a buyer and merchandiser, and the importance of collaborating with designers (many call her!). Finally, she makes the case why designers should always stay authentic. BUT, that’s not all! You’ll marvel at Erin’s intellect and wit as she articulates a thorough grasp of the fashion industry’s issues including one of her favorite topics—sustainability. If you didn’t know by now, you soon will—slow fashion is smart fashion, and may be the only way for the industry to recover from the environmental disaster caused by fast fashion. Erin, via Orleans + Winder, has been successfully selling and educating the consumer on slow fashion since 2015. It’s clearly a mission friends, and Erin Wetzel is one of the industry’s leading advocates. Listening to Erin Wetzel is the equivalent of enjoying the best prepared ten course meal, only in this case, you’ll wish there was more after the final course! Bon appétit!

You’ll be on the edge of your seats this week Fashioncast fans as George Khalife aka “George the Jeweler” joins us in the studio. George is a local Detroit jewelry designer who has a serious celebrity clientele including Khloe Kardashian, Christina Milian, Gigi Hadid, and Ashley Graham among many others. Join the ever talkative and entertaining jeweler as he delves into his family’s long history and experience in the jewelry business, and explains why emerging designers must utilize, leverage, and dutifully manage social media. Finally, listen as Christine coaxes George to reveal his next BIG project! This truly is an “episode for the ages.”