Transition Of Style Podcast

Kelly Moffat, co-founder of Kirrin Finch, a groundbreaking fashion brand, has redefined menswear-inspired clothing for women, trans, and non-binary individuals. With no formal background in fashion, Kelly and her wife Laura transformed their personal challenges with finding well-fitting, affirming clothes into an empowering business.

Claire Holt, a celebrated content creator renowned for her insights into androgynous and masculine-presenting fashion, joins Transition of Style to discuss her journey of self-expression. From her collegiate coming-out story to her distinct exploration of fashion, Claire shares how discovering her style was intertwined with embracing her identity as a lesbian.

Vanity, known as Dr. Van Bailey in their professional work, is an international model, a trailblazer in queer fashion, and a voice of inclusion and authenticity. Vanity's story intertwines a rich personal journey of self-discovery with a dynamic modeling career that spans over a decade. From their early days embracing masculine fashion as a form of self-expression to becoming a prominent advocate for queer and trans representation, Vanity's path is as inspiring as it is bold.

Angelica Ross, actress, activist, and tech entrepreneur, is a true force in Hollywood and beyond, known for her standout role as Candy Ferocity on Pose and her pioneering work with TransTech, an organization empowering trans individuals through tech training. Angelica joins Transition of Style to share her journey in style and self-expression, how she overcame the unique challenges facing queer entrepreneurs, and the transformative power of fashion as both an art and a political statement. Her insights offer inspiration for anyone navigating self-discovery, resilience, and advocacy. Episode Highlights: Fashion as a tool for visibility and personal empowerment Navigating mentorship, authenticity, and vulnerability in career growth Building TransTech to create job opportunities for the trans community Tune in to explore Angelica Ross's remarkable journey through fashion, tech, and advocacy, and gain insight into using personal style as a form of resilience and change!

Stoney Love, the founder and designer behind STUZO Clothing, has been redefining the fashion industry with a gender-free, inclusive approach for over 16 years. Known for creating clothes that celebrate individuality and reject traditional gender norms, Stoney shares their journey into fashion, how they crafted an entirely new space for self-expression, and the challenges they've faced as a queer Black entrepreneur. This episode dives deep into STUZO Clothing's mission and how Stoney's resilience, community connection, and passion for inclusivity continue to drive the brand's success!

Our host Rocio Sanchez welcomes Jess Osborn, the creative mind behind Gender Chill, the fashion show bringing queer and trans justice to the forefront. Gender Chill is all about community, celebration, and owning your style with pride—and Jess's story takes us right to its heart. Rocio and Jess explore the journey from early days in academia and a love for drag, to building a powerful, inclusive event that uplifts and empowers. Get ready for laughs, lessons, and the real talk on what it means to create spaces that embrace and amplify queer identity. ✨ Episode highlights: The inspiring story behind Gender Chill and what makes it a Miami must-see. Jess Osborn's path of personal style evolution and gender expression. The challenges and wins of first-time entrepreneurship and finding the right partners. How to keep community-led fashion projects thriving in a post-pandemic world. Join us for this conversation full of passion, creativity, and practical insights

Our host Rocio Sanchez takes you backstage at the queer fashion event of the year—Dapper Q at the Brooklyn Museum! Dapper Q is packed with unapologetic self-expression, killer looks, and a sense of community you can feel in every stitch. Rocio gets up close with models, designers, and stylists, like Trans Guy Supply's Austin Bjorkman and first-time walker Butch Molly, sharing laughs, insights, and some major fashion moments along the way. Episode highlights: Firsthand stories from the 9th Annual Dapper Q Fashion Show at Brooklyn Museum. Real talk from models and designers on embracing identity and style in spaces made just for us. The electric energy of Dapper Q, from pre-show jitters to the runway's biggest, boldest looks. Inspiring journeys of finding confidence and community through fashion. Join us for an inspiring dive into the queer fashion world with Rocio Sanchez and discover how Dapper Q is shaping a future of inclusive, vibrant expression and visibility. Tune in to celebrate community, creativity, and the diverse voices at the heart of queer fashion today.

Rocio Sanchez, your guide through the world of queer fashion, is back to kick off another season of Transition of Style. This season promises even more compelling conversations with trailblazing queer leaders, activists, and entrepreneurs who are reshaping the fashion industry with boldness and authenticity. Rocio shares insights into the upcoming season, where listeners will hear from voices like Angelica Ross, who explores how personal identity and politics intersect with fashion, and Kelly Moffatt, who highlights the importance of listening to the needs of a diverse audience. This season, Transition of Style explores even deeper into stories of visibility, community, and the ever-evolving landscape of queer fashion. Episode Highlights: Exploring personal identity and professional growth: How queer leaders are redefining what it means to succeed in fashion. Challenges and triumphs of queer entrepreneurs: Hear firsthand stories of overcoming industry barriers and embracing authenticity. Business insights and brand building: Get inspired by unique approaches to community engagement and staying true to oneself in a commercial world. The power of visibility and representation: Discover the impact of being visibly queer in fashion and how it influences broader societal shifts.

Learn about the journey of building a groundbreaking gender-free brand with Rob Smith, the visionary CEO behind The Phluid Project. In this episode, Rob discusses the expansion of Phluid into a wide array of retail stores nationwide, the development of gender-affirming products, and his ambitious goals for the Phluid Foundation. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of advocating for marginalized communities, particularly trans women of color and homeless queer youth. Rob's insights into leveraging a digital and physical presence to create a robust brand narrative are invaluable for anyone interested in social entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: The impressive expansion of The Phluid Project into major retail stores across the country. Launching a gender-affirming undergarments collection and the focus on affordable pricing. Strategies for supporting marginalized communities in the queer community, including a focus on trans women of color and homeless queer youth. The importance of a mixed digital and physical presence in brand building and community support. Tune in to gain insights into the power of community-focused branding and the impactful journey of The Phluid Project.

NiK Kacy, the visionary behind NiK Kacy Footwear, is revolutionizing the queer fashion scene. Joining us on Transition of Style, NiK discusses their groundbreaking journey in the industry, highlighting the unique challenges and triumphs as a queer entrepreneur. This episode delves into NiK's experiences from navigating microaggressions to pioneering LGBTQ-focused fashion initiatives like Equality Fashion Week in LA. Episode Highlights: Journey into Queer Fashion: NiK shares the story of founding NiK Kacy Footwear, a brand born out of a need for gender-neutral footwear. Overcoming Industry Challenges: Insights into tackling challenges in manufacturing and raising capital as a queer entrepreneur. Community Empowerment: The role of events like Queer Prom in empowering the LGBTQ+ community and raising funds for queer artists and designers of color. Advocacy Through Fashion: How NiK Kacy's work transcends fashion, advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities in the industry. Resources for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs: Discussing the importance of resources like the NGLCC and the power of mentorship in supporting upcoming queer business owners. Tune in to explore the inspiring world of queer fashion entrepreneurship, understanding the intersection of identity, advocacy, and business acumen.

STEEZO, an Atlanta-based musician and stud trailblazer in queer fashion and a burgeoning entrepreneur, has rapidly grown a dedicated following online, captivating audiences with his bold fashion choices. STEEZO joins Transition of Style to share his journey in the fashion world, intertwining his personal coming out story as a queer individual with his ascent in the fashion industry. As STEEZO recounts his experiences, he offers invaluable insights for queer professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs in the fashion sector. Episode Highlights: The intersection of personal identity and professional growth in the fashion industry. Challenges and triumphs as a queer entrepreneur in fashion. STEEZO's unique approach to brand building and community engagement. Insights on staying authentic while navigating commercial success. Tune in to explore the vibrant world of queer fashion entrepreneurship, learning how to merge personal identity with professional ambition, all while maintaining mental well-being and authenticity.

Join an in-depth conversation about a sustainable streetwear brand and its evolution into the home goods space – and what you can learn about shifting into new markets. Nicole Zizi, founder of NICOLE ZÏZI STUDIO and NICOLE ZÏZI HOME – a proud Black lesbian entrepreneur of Haitian descent – graces Transition of Style in this discussion about sustainability and gender-neutral designs as a driving force in her brand's development. In this episode, she shares her journey, the role of trends in timing market entry, and the significance of brand values in product expansion. Episode Highlights: Embracing Market Shifts: Nicole capitalizes on the current trend towards home goods while staying true to her long-standing desire to enter this market, illustrating the importance of aligning trends with brand vision. Sustainability as a Core Values: With an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, Nicole ensures that these values are deeply embedded in both her fashion and home goods lines, reinforcing the brand's integrity and consumer trust. Gender-Neutral Fashion's Disruption: Highlighting her passion for innovation, Nicole discusses the disruption gender-neutral fashion is creating in the industry and her excitement in shaping the trend. Join us to explore how strategic brand evolution can lead to success in the dynamic world of fashion and lifestyle.

Abby Luke has amassed 600,000 followers on TikTok over the past three years, and she's learned a lot in the process. Abby joins Transition of Style to discuss her journey on TikTok, her separate but overlapping coming out journey as a bisexual woman, and the challenges of content creation. As Abby shares her experiences and insights, several key points emerge that every digital content creator should take note of. Episode Highlights: TikTok's Artistic Future: Abby Luke envisions TikTok evolving into a more cinematic platform, comparable to watching short films or movies. Burnout & The Pressure to Evolve: Abby speaks to the intense pressure on creators to continuously adapt to new trends, leading to burnout and mental health challenges. Platform Diversification: Highlighting the unpredictability of algorithms, your host underscores the importance of establishing a presence across multiple platforms, ensuring consistent engagement with her audience. Struggle with Perfectionism: Abby's Capricorn nature makes her either give 100% or not start a project at all, shedding light on the internal battles many creators face. Tune in to delve deep into the world of content creation, understanding the balance between staying relevant and ensuring mental well-being.

Jay Jaxon was the first African-American haute couturier, having worked in the prestigious luxury houses of Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, and Jean-Louis Scherrer in the 1960s and 70s. Rachel Fenderson uncovered Jaxon's work while researching as a student in Parsons Paris' Fashion Studies program. She has since organized exhibitions at the Queens Public Library and Queens Historical Society about Jaxon's work. In this episode of Transition of Style, we celebrate LGBT History Month in the United States by discussing Jay Jaxon. Let's get a sneak peek at what Jay Jaxon's life in Paris would have been like – not only as an American in Paris, but an African-American non-heterosexual man in Paris. Where was he during the 1973 Battle of Versailles Fashion Show, the iconic fashion spectacle that put American and French designers and models on the map? What would life have been like for a 20- or 30-something year-old non-straight man in Paris? Listen to the episode to find out. Links Transition of Style website Rachel Fenderson website Jay Jaxon's retroactive obituary in the New York Times Your host's website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's episode, we have an insightful conversation with Finnegan Shepard, the founder of Both& Apparel, diving deep into the fashion challenges faced by underrepresented communities, particularly the transgender, gender-fluid, and gender-free audience.  Shepard sheds light on the hardships of fundraising as an underrepresented founder, particularly in early-stage fundraising. We discuss the hurdles of the fundraising process, noting that while it can be hard for everyone, it's especially challenging for marginalized groups and those in sectors like fashion. Shepard also opens up about the importance of community in his journey, underscoring that no founder truly goes it alone.  ✅ Key discussion points: Fundraising and Underrepresentation: The challenges of fundraising as an underrepresented founder. Early-stage Capital: Securing capital is rooted in faith and the belief in a founder's potential. Market Trends: The current uncertainty and hyperbolic nature of the fundraising environment. Community Support: The importance of a supportive community in a founder's journey. Both& Philosophy: Embracing diverse perspectives and avoiding binary thinking. Finding Balance: The significance of diversifying hobbies and interests for mental wellbeing. Your host, Rocio Sanchez, ends the episode with key takeaways, emphasizing the importance of robust market research, authentic storytelling, and clarity in brand communication.  The episode serves as an eye-opener into the complexities of serving an underrepresented market and the value of truly understanding one's audience.

In this episode of "Transition of Style," host Rocio Sanchez sits down with the dynamic Teresa Morcho, founder of Stud Model Project. Dive deep into an initiative that's reshaping the modeling and fashion landscapes, championing representation for Black, masculine-presenting individuals assigned female at birth. Unpack the nuanced layers of identity and explore how the Stud Model Project combats societal stereotypes while fostering a space for skill development, growth, and genuine self-expression. Whether it's challenging the inherent masculine perception of Blackness or broadening fashion aesthetics beyond just street style, this conversation is an enlightening journey into the heart of representation and inclusivity. Tune in for an insightful chat that celebrates diversity, empowerment, and the beauty of breaking molds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a long hiatus since December 2020, Transition of Style is back with a renewed focus and a fresh voice. Former host Phil Corinne introduces the new host, Rocio Sanchez, an accomplished multilingual brand strategist and digital marketing expert. Rocio has a background in fashion and is particularly passionate about lifting queer entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs of color in the fashion industry. The two bond over shared experiences and discuss the evolving landscape of the fashion world. Rocio gives listeners a sneak peek into the revamped direction of the podcast. It will feature diverse guests, ranging from TikTok influencers to CEOs of budding fashion brands. The conversations will blend personal experiences with business insights, offering both heartwarming stories and actionable steps for budding entrepreneurs. Rocio shares their fascinating journey from their early days in fashion, their time at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and the challenges they witnessed in the fashion industry. Drawing inspiration from shows like Pose on FX, Rocio emphasizes the enduring and influential presence of the queer community in fashion. This episode serves as a bridge between the podcast's legacy and its new future, promising listeners engaging, insightful, and empowering content on the intersection of fashion, identity, and entrepreneurship in the queer community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the revamped version of Transition of Style, Rocio Sanchez, a digital marketer specializing in queer business, takes over from Phil Corin to guide listeners on a journey into the business side of queer fashion. This podcast explores fashion, identity, and how queer leaders today are actively reshaping the fashion industry.  From business leaders to models and influencers, Rocio will engage a variety of individuals who are at the forefront of inclusivity in fashion. This podcast is an essential listen for those interested in understanding the transformation of the fashion industry from the perspective of queer leaders. The discourse underscores the significant role that the LGBT community has played in setting fashion trends, moving from a footnote to the forefront of the industry. Join Rocio Sanchez every Tuesday starting August 29th, 2023, for in-depth discussions about queer fashion, and its impact on the industry. Subscribe on your preferred platform and follow along for more marketing tips and case studies at Marketing by Rocio. Prepare to be a part of a movement that celebrates individuality and inclusivity in style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we talk to beauty influencer, Nikkole Robinson. Listen in as she talks about finding the ups and downs of being a poc transfemme influencer, finding her identity, and exploring her sexuality.

In this episode, we talk to journalist, model and creator of the Chief of Style, life and style blog, Amy Stretten. Listen in as she inspires us and talks about what it's like being a mixed-race/multi-hyphenate indigenous, queer femme.

In this episode, we talk with the incredibly talented cellist, Andrew Yee. Listen in as they talk about creating a space within themselves that allows for an external presentation routed in authenticity. 

In this bonus episode we talk with race healer Milagros Phillips as she shares what it means to be race literate. For 35 years Milagros has been speaking, training, and sharing the gospel of what it means to be race literate. Listen as she discusses the trauma linked with racism and also the need for compassion in her work.

In this episode we talk to Alex Berg, journalist, journalist, producer and host Alex Berg. Listen as she talks about femme erasure, using style to communicate queerness and her love of roller derby!

In this episode we talk to fashion writer, videographer and photographer, event, producer, and DJ, Doreen Pierre. Listen as she talks about breaking away from family constraints to follow her curiosity and her interests.

In this episode, we talk to Style is Freedom founder Toni Branson. Listen as they share navigating tomboy identity while experiencing pushback from family and society. Toni holds tight to their “content of character” with strength and resiliency.

In this first episode in our all new format we talk with Joshua Williams, professor of fashion management, retail and marketing at Parsons School of Design, 15 year veteran of the fashion industry and founder of Fashion Consort Agency. Join us as Joshua tells us about growing up Mormon and coming into his identity and style.

The Transition of Style official trailer. 

In this final episode of ToS Check In we talk with Darragh Dandurand, a creative director working in  immersive / emerging technology with a background in fashion photography and music photography. Listen as we talk about connecting with what inspires you and creates a fulfillment in a career. This conversation comes at a time when jobs are being lost, unemployment is at an all time high and many are wondering what’s next?

In this episode we talk to Megan Picurro a student enrolled at Parsons Fashion Management Masters of Professional studies program, marketer and brander in the cosmetics industry and a queer activist. Join us as Megan talks about how the pandemic has created a need in her to connect in more authentic ways.

In this episode we talk with Lex Horwitz, an LGBTQ+ educator, activist, model and mental health advocate. Lex believes that the principles of engaging in respectful dialogue  is what creates meaningful change. Listen as they talk about weaving those principles into every project or role they take part in.

In this episode we talk with Naomi Tenenini, a product designer who talks about staying productive during the shut down. After being laid off, Naomi lands a job and uses the time off to learn new skills but also takes the time to stay connected to family and friends.

In this episode we check in with filmmaker Tank Burt. Tank talks about taking the opportunity during this pandemic to turn inward and reflect. To use the opportunity this time has provided to  re-work old thought patterns

In this episode we check in with Liz, host of the podcast Conversations with Liz Gold podcast. Listen as she talks about the changes in her life that led to starting the podcast and why the topic of resiliency was so important to her.

In this episode we talk to Daniel Fernandez, hair stylist and hair activist looking to create accessible, affordable and affirming hair experiences for folks of all genders.

In this episode we welcome Molly Ola Pinney and Aja Davis the couple responsible for starting  the Facebook group White People Doing Something in response to the murder of George Floyd. The couple talks about creating the group to facilitate conversations about race to affect real change. Listen as they talk about the principles the group has been built on and their hopes for what it will accomplish. The group began in late May 2020 and has more than 23,000 in mid June 2020.

In this episode we welcome Jess Adams and Cas Ryan a queer couple in lockdown together. In between giving each other quarantine cuts Jess is volunteering with a neighborhood network providing assistance for folks in their neighborhood as Cas continues their work as a hospice volunteer, now virtually.  These two have found ways to continue to be of service during the pandemic but still find time to produce and perform virtual drag shows and partake in Dungeons and Dragons.

In this episode of ToS Check In we're talking to Ilo who volunteers their medical skills to help out Somos Health in its coronavirus testing of immigrants.

In this episode of ToS Check In we're talking with E. Leifer, entrepreneur, photographer, creative director AND co-owner of Play Out Apparel who is dealing with running a gender equal apparel business during the pandemic.

In this episode we talk to Abby Miller, Senior Program Specialist for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. She shares how her department is working long and hard to find creative ways to keep the homeless population safe in the midst of the pandemic with the understanding that without these safeguards lives will be lost.

In this episode we check in with writer and photographer Sam Guilbeaux. Currently they're socially isolating with their wife Lauren and their cat, Yams. Sam has decided to take this time to dive deeply into themselves and reflect on the parts of themselves that have been left behind and forgotten.

In this episode we talk with Sunitha Menon, Chief of Consulting Services Operations for an anti sexual violence non-profit organization called RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). She shares what quarantining is like in Los Angeles where she has been working remotely for the past six years. With many years of working remotely under her belt even she had to adjust to this current “new normal”.

In this episode of ToS Check In we talk to Frankie Classe, a licensed clinical social worker whose job is deemed essential. Frankie describes the alarming truth of just how disproportionately black and brown folks are being impacted by the virus. They talk about the ways in which the homeless population is being hit particularly hard as they try desperately to secure much needed resources.

Welcome to the first episode of ToS Checkin where we check in with members of our community during the coronavirus pandemic. Tune as Transition of Style host, Phil aka Corinne talks about how they're staying sane while under quarantine.

In this episode we talk with Abby Miller, a full-time homelessness fighter and a jack-of-all-trades designer, working in clothing design, shoemaking, textile design, and other creative pursuits.

In this episode we talk with Rae Angelo Tutera, advocate and partner at popular custom suiting company Bindle & Keep.

SPECIAL live recording with Faces and Places/FIT with Shao Yang, founder of The Tailory New York, a custom suiting company and influencer Danielle Cooper of She's a Gent whose impeccable style has been recognized in publications like Forbes and Vogue.

In this episode we Brooklyn Wright Founder and Creator of Boi Society, an online fashion and community platform with over 50k queer, non-binary and people of color in over 21 countries.

In this episode we welcome Layne Crawford a.k.a. The Pocket Tomboy is a PR Executive and Copywriter by day and a blogger and Instagram influencer still by day. Their mission is to help folks feel good about themselves with fashion.

In this episode we welcome wedding officiant and love storyteller Karla Villar. Tune as she talks to us about part two of her life and takes us through her journey on becoming an officiant.

In this episode we welcome designer, builder, maker, mixologist and boxer Heather Smith.