menSwear by a Woman

In this episode, I sit down with Vollebak co-founder Nick Tidball for a fascinating conversation about what happens when you stop following the rules of fashion and start designing for the future. From the very beginning, Nick and his brother set out to build a brand unlike anything the menswear industry had ever seen. Instead of chasing seasonal trends, they asked bigger questions: What will huma...

Inspired by a shared love of travel and timeless design, brothers Chris and Mark founded Far Afield with a vision of creating menswear that tells a story. In this episode, they share how exploring the world shaped the brand, influenced every collection, and helped turn a simple idea into a respected independent menswear label. We discuss entrepreneurship, creativity, and what it's really like buil...

In this episode, I sit down with James Sleaford, Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director of the French edition of Icon Magazine, for an insightful conversation about the ever evolving world of men's fashion media. James shares his journey into publishing, how he built his career within the magazine industry, and the realities of leading one of menswear's most respected titles. We discuss how men's...

This episode is a personal tribute to Nigel Cabourn, one of the true legends of British menswear. I was fortunate enough to meet Nigel at a vintage fair 2023, and it remains one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Like so many others, I had admired his work, his passion for vintage clothing, and the influence he had on menswear for decades. Meeting him only deepened that admiration. What...

In today's episode, I'm joined by Alan Taylor, founder of Bad Arm Baseball, for an honest conversation about building a menswear brand from the ground up. We discuss how menswear has evolved over the years, the changing landscape of fashion, and why fashion education may need to adapt to better prepare the next generation. Alan shares his journey into the industry, including the challenges of ente...

In this episode, we sit down with Katie Fyfe, co-founder of Dad & Dolly, to share the deeply personal story behind the menswear brand she created alongside her father, John. When John began showing early signs of dementia, Katie found herself searching for a way to spend meaningful time with him while preserving the memories, stories, and family traditions that had shaped their relationship. D...

This week, we sit down with menswear designer George W Alvin for an honest conversation about fashion, identity, creativity, and mental health within the industry. Having previously worked with Reiss and alongside leading menswear designers, George reflects on his journey through the fashion world  from the pressures of established brands to finding the courage to start again on his own terms. We...

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Colin Behr, founder of Wardrobe Theory Project, for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of menswear and what it really means to build a project with identity in today’s fashion landscape. We discuss how menswear has evolved over the last decade, the growing influence of social media and creators, and why so many brands and campaigns can begin to feel...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Cho, co-founder of The Armoury, to talk about his journey into the world of menswear and the experiences that shaped his perspective on style, craftsmanship, and culture. Mark shares how his early interest in clothing evolved into a deeper appreciation for tailoring and classic menswear, as well as how his relationship with Drake's first began. We also explor...

In Part 2 of our conversation with James Shaw founder of Albam and now building Peace we go deeper into what it really feels like to run a brand that’s so closely tied to your identity. James speaks candidly about the emotional weight behind menswear, from the pride of creating something meaningful to the pressure of sustaining it over time. We unpack what it means to step back into the industry f...

In this episode, we sit down with William Kroll, founder of Tender Co., to explore how a truly independent brand is built and why it matters. William walks us through the early days of Tender Co., from its unconventional beginnings to the hands-on process that defines the brand today. Rooted in experimentation and craftsmanship, Tender Co. was never about fitting into the traditional fashion syste...

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Nourmand, founder and editor-in-chief of Reel Art Press, and a leading figure in visual culture publishing. With a background in vintage movie posters, Nourmand has spent decades shaping how we experience film, music, photography, and fashion through books. He discusses the vision behind Reel Art Press and the stories behind standout titles such as Black Ivy,...

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Chang  a celebrated illustrator and the founder of Ivy Boys, a platform that has carved out a distinctive voice in the world of menswear. Known for his sharp eye and signature artistic style, Aaron has built a loyal following by capturing the essence of classic and contemporary men’s fashion through illustration. We explore Aaron’s journey into the industr...

Hello everyone, I hope you all had a wonderful Easter. Just a quick update to let you know that we’ll be back next week with a new episode. It’s a special one, and we’re still working out exactly how we’re going to bring it to you! Our guest is very well known in the menswear world, and this will be a real first for menSwear by a Woman Podcast. Fingers crossed, everything goes smoothly on the day...

What happens when three friends Sachit, Utkarsh and Sai with no background in the perfume industry decide to create a fragrances brand about memories? In this episode, we dive into the story of Rahasya a brand born not from expertise, but from curiosity, creativity, and a shared belief that passion can outshine convention. We explore how the founders took a leap into an unfamiliar world, navigatin...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Sid and Ann Mashburn, the husband and wife founders behind the beloved brand Sid Mashburn. Before launching their own company, both Sid and Ann had already built successful careers, but they made the bold decision to step away and take a chance on creating something of their own. That leap of faith became Sid Mashburn a brand now widely recognized in the world...

In this episode, we’re joined by writers Max Leonard and Henry Iddon, co-authors of Mountain Style - British Outdoor Clothing 1953-2000 , a book that explores the rich history and cultural impact of clothing designed for life in the mountains. Both Max and Henry share a deep enthusiasm for outdoor clothing and the stories behind the gear that climbers and mountaineers rely on. What began as a curi...

Today’s episode features Michelle Kohanzo, the President of The Tie Bar, the Chicago based brand known for making quality men’s accessories accessible without compromising style. Michelle shares her journey leading the company, how The Tie Bar has evolved in the modern retail landscape, and what it takes to build a brand that blends timeless style with a direct to consumer approach. We also talk a...

In this episode, we sit down with Matteo Bellentani, Creative Director and Product Developer at Clarks Originals, the heritage footwear label known for timeless silhouettes and cultural impact. Matteo takes us inside the creative engine of one of Britain’s most iconic brands, sharing how he balances innovation with tradition while honoring the legacy of Clarks. From reimagining classic styles to d...

Five years. Half a decade. A journey we never could have imagined when we first pressed record. In this special anniversary episode, we reflect on everything that has unfolded not just within the podcast but in our personal lives, too. Through life’s highs, challenges, changes, and growth, this space has remained its own world. A constant. A creative sanctuary. A place where passion always outweig...

In a world where luxury is often defined by excess, logos, and exclusivity, House of Tengri offers a radically different vision  one rooted in stewardship, humanity, and the quiet power of nature. In this episode, we explore the story behind the brand and its founder, Nancy Johnston, a  entrepreneur who set out to redefine what “true luxury” really means. After living among nomadic yak herding com...

In this episode, we sit down with Audie Charles, one of the most influential figures in modern menswear and a true custodian of British tailoring. Having spent decades at the helm of Anderson & Sheppard, Audie has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of one of Savile Row’s most revered houses. Renowned for her impeccable eye and deep understanding of style, she is widely regarded as one o...

In this episode, we speak with Ritwik Khanna, founder of Rkiev City, about his approach to design, heritage, and restoration. Ritwik takes us through the remarkable journey of redesigning the uniform of Mayo College, one of India’s most prestigious institutions often referred to as the Eton of India. With a history spanning over 100 years, the project demanded deep respect for legacy while adaptin...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jack and Lewis, the founders of Brighton based vintage clothing store Salvage and Sawdust a name that’s been creating serious buzz in the vintage scene. We talk about how they both got started in the world of vintage fashion, what first sparked their passion for the craft, and how that passion has grown into a thriving business. We dive into the role technology...

Today’s episode is about doing less but doing it better. We’re diving into Arvello, an Australian brand founded by Sam Darvill and Armando Zurzolo, built on intention, craftsmanship, and a rejection of fast fashion culture. Let’s get into it. Arvello didn’t happen overnight. Sam and Armando spent over a year planning, questioning, and refining what they actually wanted to put into the world. And w...