Wear This Not That

Welcome back to another fabulous episode of the *Fashion Crimes Podcast* with your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz!   This week, we're diving into one of the hottest topics in fashion: “Building a Sustainable Wardrobe.”   Whether you're eco-conscious or just want to make more intentional shopping decisions, Holly breaks down the essentials of ethical fashion, why fast fashion should be avoided, and how you can start curating a wardrobe that not only makes you look good but also feel good about your impact on the planet.   Ready to level up your style game sustainably? Tune in for expert advice, personal insights, and the ultimate guide to shopping consciously!   KEY TALKING POINTS:   1. What is a Sustainable Wardrobe?   A sustainable wardrobe isn't just a buzzword—it's a thoughtful collection of clothing made with eco-friendly materials and produced in ways that minimize waste and pollution.   Holly explains how it’s not about having less but about shopping with intention and choosing items that align with ethical values.   2. The Dark Side of Fast Fashion   Holly pulls back the curtain on the fast fashion industry, which is the second-largest polluter in the world (after the oil industry!). #notagoodlook   She discusses the social and environmental costs of fast fashion, from underpaid workers in unsafe conditions to the massive waste generated by cheap, disposable clothing.   3. Shopping Vintage and Second-Hand   Want to make a difference? Holly recommends starting with vintage and second-hand shopping. She highlights some of her favorite stores like “Madison & Fifth” (Episode 179), and “Ensemble Consignment Charleston” (EP 209).   By choosing preloved items, you're giving new life to garments and reducing demand for new production.   4. Sustainable Brands to Know   From Stella McCartney to Eileen Fisher, we introduce some incredible eco-friendly brands. Whether you’re looking for high-fashion pieces or everyday essentials, below is a list of ethical labels that are perfect for starting and curating a sustainable wardrobe.   Sustainable Brands to Explore:   • Stella McCartney • Gabriella Hearst • Reformation • Eileen Fisher • Pangaia • Levi’s • Patagonia • Pact • Everlane • Girlfriend Collective • Naadam • Nudie Jeans • Weft & Warp Denim • Collina Strada • Ekhaus Latta  • Kotn   Past Sustainable Episodes Mentioned:   Episode 179: Interview with Chloe from Madison & 5th Episode 210: Interview with VienneMilano Luxury Hosiery Episode 147: Interview with Designer Marissa Wilson Episode 145: BILIBLOND Swimwear Episode 134: Dayo Women Episode 125: Designer Kiya Tomlin     Holly's Shout-Outs of the Week!   Thank you so much to Sticky Bakery in Toronto, Sarah and Catherine from St. Paul for always writing in! #lovethem   Final Thoughts on Sustainable Fashion   Holly wraps up the episode by sharing her personal philosophy: sustainable fashion isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessity.   As consumers, we have the power to demand change from the fashion industry. By shopping consciously, whether through second-hand finds or eco-friendly brands, we can all make a positive impact.   As no closet is "fast-fashion free", making small, intentional changes can and will go a long way.     "Fashion should make you feel good inside and out. When we know better, we do better!" Let us know how you’re building your sustainable wardrobe and give us the deets! Drop Holly a message at holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com, or DM her on Instagram @fashioncrimespodcast.

Holly Katz, a personal stylist and cancer warrior, shares her heartfelt journey through wig shopping while battling multiple myeloma. She discusses the decision to embrace wigs, emphasizing that they can be a stylish choice for anyone, not just those facing hair loss. Holly takes listeners through the wig shopping process, offering practical tips on exploring styles and trusting salon experts. With humor and honesty, she reflects on the emotional challenges of this experience and the joy of transforming one’s look.

Welcome to another life-changing episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast,  as the best fashion friend you never knew you needed! It's important for you to know that this episode will change the way you get dressed. Like forever.    This week, Holly Katz dives into the art of closet organization to revolutionize your daily dressing routine and elevate your overall style once and for all! #hallelujurrrrrr   If you are in closet chaos, Holly's here to turn you around so you get organized, purge, donate, and eliminate stress when getting dressed.    KEY TOPICS     1. Understanding the Closet Chaos Epidemic Holly kicks off the episode by identifying common wardrobe woes, from overflowing drawers to the emotional clutter that is blocking your style; whether consciously or unconsciously.    It's not just about having too much or too little; it's about reconnecting with your clothes in a way that sparks joy and creativity. #YAASSSSSSSS   HOT TIP: Organizing your stuff is the first step in training your brain that you don't need more!     2. The First Steps to Freedom Sorting through your items, (ALL OF THEM), will start you on your purging journey. Holly outlines how to start small, avoid the overwhelm, and focus on keeping what you love and makes you feel good. More doesn't always necessarily mean better. It means closet clutter.   She shares her favorite tip: swapping out mismatched hangers for velvet slimline ones to maximize space and add an instant luxe feel to your closet setup.   3. Laundry and Shopping Habits Consistent laundry practices are key to maintaining that new closet feel.   Holly discusses the pitfalls of erratic laundry habits and over-shopping, providing practical advice on how to create a sustainable wardrobe without succumbing to shopping temptations aka: panic shopping.    4. Donations and Sustainable Choices Once you've sorted through your wardrobe, it's time to give back.   Holly emphasizes the importance of donating to charities that can truly benefit from your gently used items and advises on how to choose the right places to make an impact. Places like Dress for Success in your town is a great place to start bringing your gently used items in great condition.    5. Drawer and Shoe Organization The final touch involves decluttering your drawers and displaying your shoes out of the boxes and off the floor.    Holly gives actionable tips on how to keep everything accessible and orderly, turning your closet into a showcase you’re proud to open every day. Once you complete the clean out, you will never want to go back to your old closet chaos. Make your closet a place where you are proud to get dressed each day.    Show Us Your Closet for the Win! As you transform your wardrobe space, we'd love to see your progress!   1. Can you keep it that way? Send Holly some before-and-after photos of your closet, and she’ll give you a shout-out on the next episode.   2. Whoever has the most garbage bags full of stuff to give away, send Holly a picture and a description of what you're giving away and the number of bags you're donating - and the name of the charity you're donating to- and you can win an exclusive interview live on the show to tell everyone about your closet clean out experience.   Just send your stories and pictures to Holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com.     Fashion Crimes: Closet Edition So, what did we learn today? Holly tackled the ultimate fashion crimes committed within the confines of our closets:   • Over-shopping and under-shopping both create chaos, making it hard to enjoy and utilize what we have. • Neglecting to organize or frequently clean out your closet also contributes to these crimes, leaving us with a wardrobe full of items we neither use nor need.   Let's pledge to maintain orderly spaces, make thoughtful purchases, and cherish the clothes that serve us and donate what doesn't.    This. Is. Life. Changing. It's a fool-proof plant to reclaim not only our closets but also our style confidence!     That’s it for now! Don’t forget to subscribe FOR FREE wherever you get your podcasts for your weekly dose of style and shopping inspiration, follow us on social media, and keep sharing your fashion triumphs and challenges. Don't forget to drop us a DM on Instagram to show us your progress.    Join us next week as Holly continues to help us tackle common fashion crimes, one episode at a time.

Dive into the latest buzz from New York Fashion Week with a trend-packed discussion! Discover the hot return of fringe and oversized styles, perfect for both genders this season. Nostalgia hits with playful early 2000s vibes and nautical themes making a splash. There's also a highlight on deconstructed clothing that encourages bold, conversational fashion. Tune in for expert tips to elevate your style game and avoid those fashion faux pas!

On this week’s episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast, Holly Katz takes us back to her summer road trip to Charleston, South Carolina, where she visited the charming new brick-and-mortar store of the *Goldbug Collection* on Spring Street.   Founded by sisters Mini Hay Avant and Kathleen Hay Hagood, Goldbug is a local jewelry line born out of Croghan’s Jewel Box, their family’s iconic jewelry store in Charleston.   As fourth-generation jewelers, these sisters have reimagined Southern charm with their unique costume jewelry, sending their bug-inspired creations all over the country.   In this episode continuing her #womensupportingwomen series, she stops in and sits down with the Goldbug Collection team member Riley Steinhour while Mini and Kathleen were away to learn all about the brand’s inspiration, how it came to life, and why Goldbug is taking Charleston by storm.   Be sure to head over to our YouTube Channel to watch this fun in-store interview!   KEY TOPICS:   The Goldbug Story: From Family Tradition to Fashion Forward Mini and Kathleen, raised in a family of jewelers, began designing jewelry inspired by Charleston’s low country beauty. From palm fronds to local bugs, the sisters turned their love for nature into a costume jewelry line that blends nostalgia and playfulness. #bugstobeautiful   Holly and Riley explore the roots of the brand, which started in Croghan’s Jewel Box, a century-old jewelry store in Charleston, and how their family’s engraving expertise has added a personalized touch to their pieces.   The Charm of Bug-Inspired Jewelry Holly and Riley dive into one of Goldbug’s signature elements: jewelry inspired by Charleston’s Palmetto Bug. While this Southern roach may not seem like a likely muse, Mini and Kathleen transformed it into an emblem of the region’s character and charm. #what?!?!   The line also features okra-shaped pieces, peanuts, and fireflies, reflecting the beauty of everyday Southern life.    Riley shares how these quirky pieces resonate with customers, turning Charleston’s pests into wearable art.   The Craft of Customization and Engraving A hallmark of Goldbug jewelry is its customization. With engraving passed down as a family trade, Goldbug offers bespoke pieces that customers can personalize with initials, dates, or symbols.   Riley showcases popular items like the “Forget Me Not” pendant and the baby puffy hearts, which make perfect gifts for loved ones.   Whether it’s a charm that commemorates a special moment or an engraved token with sentimental meaning, Goldbug’s pieces are a fusion of family history and modern design.   Mixing High and Low Jewelry Styles Holly discusses one of her favorite aspects of the Goldbug collection: its versatility in styling. Riley highlights how the costume jewelry can be easily paired with fine jewelry for an effortlessly chic look.   Holly shares tips on mixing real and costume jewelry to create a bold yet timeless style. Whether it’s stacking bangles or layering necklaces, Goldbug pieces offer the perfect balance of playful design and classic elegance.   Why We Love the Goldbug Collection: She wraps up the episode by expressing her love for the *Goldbug Collection* and why she is passionate about supporting women-owned, small businesses. #YYAASSSS   Goldbug’s combination of family heritage, creativity, and Charleston flair makes it a must-visit destination for any fashion lover. With pieces that tell a story and celebrate Southern charm, Goldbug is more than jewelry—it’s a celebration of artistry and community.   Holly encourages her listeners to check out the store online, follow them on social media, and discover how they can add a little bug love to their own collections. We would have never believed it until we saw it, but only Goldbug can create beauty and style from everyday things can be easily overlooked.  We were so impressed by their collection we can't wait to see what they will think of next. Watch the full interview on our YouTube Channel here!   Follow at https://www.instagram.com/goldbugcollection/ Shop at https://goldbugcollection.com/     With one last look at summer and heading into the Fall, be on the lookout for more news fromMini and Kathleen at the Goldbug Collection in the future - and more women-owned businesses you need to know! Please share this episode with those you love and keep listening to the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST – the best fashion friend you never knew you needed!     We are here every week wherever you get your podcasts – and on YouTube – to help women over 40 and beyond build confidence through learning about fashion by avoiding common style mistakes.   Whether you’re over 40 or just love unique jewelry, this episode is for YOU! Share with a friend or someone you know who needs fashion help, the fashion hotline is always open.

Get ready for fall with hot pre-fall fashion trends that will elevate your style! Discover how Oprah’s stunning purple pantsuit turned heads at the Democratic National Convention, and why Michelle Obama’s navy sleeveless ensemble is a bold risk worth taking. Dive into Kamala Harris’s monochromatic blue suit, symbolizing power and elegance. Plus, uncover emerging accessories and style tips to seamlessly transition from summer to autumn while supporting small businesses. Fashion hacks await to keep you fabulous!

Welcome back, Fashion besties, to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, the ultimate hub where fashion meets fun, hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz.   To see the interview in person, jump over to our YouTube Channel!   This week it's the kick off to our pre-fall trend series. First up, we're ecstatic to reconnect with one of our very first fashion besties, Vienne Brown, the thigh-high stocking designer behind the luxurious brand, VienneMilano. We love supporting women-owned businesses!   Vienne joins us to discuss the remarkable evolution of her brand from creating high-quality thigh-high stockings that stay put to expanding her line to include plus sizes, tights, and now, innovative shapewear.   Join us as she shares the inspiring journey of her women-owned business and the latest in fashion-forward thinking.   STOP what you are doing now, and jump over to our YouTube Channel to watch this amazing interview, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.   Key Highlights: 1. Brand Evolution and New Offerings o Vienne discusses how Vienne Milano has expanded its product line beyond the signature thigh highs to include tights, pantyhose, and now, shapewear! #YASSSSS   This evolution reflects her responsiveness to consumer needs and feedback, emphasizing inclusivity with sizes that cater to a diverse range of body types.   2. The Inspiration Behind Starting Vienne Milano o Reflecting on her personal challenges with finding thigh highs that fit well, Vienne shares her entrepreneurial journey from identifying a gap in the market to launching her own brand.   Her story is an inspiring example of turning a personal frustration into a thriving business solution.    3. Introduction of Shapewear o Vienne introduces her new line of shapewear, born out of her own postpartum experience and the desire to feel confident in one's skin.   She details the design process and the thoughtful integration of customer feedback into product development, highlighting the brand's commitment to quality and comfort.   4. Empowering Women Through Fashion o The conversation highlights how Vienne Milano’s products empower women to feel elegant and confident in all settings, from the office to special occasions.   Vienne’s passion for making high-quality hosiery accessible and stylish for all women shines through, reinforcing the brand's ethos. She details all the styles and colors that are on trend for the pre-fall season.   Conclusion: Thank you, Vienne, for joining us again on the Fashion Crimes Podcast and sharing your incredible journey and the exciting new directions for Vienne Milano. Your dedication to innovation and quality, while staying true to the brand's mission of empowering women, is truly inspiring!   Holly’s takeaway from today’s discussion underscores the importance of listening to your customers and evolving with their needs—a lesson valuable for all fashion entrepreneurs.   Vienne Milano is not just about looking good, but feeling good and embracing one's style with confidence.   Be sure to check out their latest collections and experience the comfort and elegance that Vienne Milano brings to your wardrobe. Please follow them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/viennemilano, and shop at  www.viennemilano.com   If you loved this episode, be sure to share it with your fashion besties and help spread the word about the joy of the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST!    Stay tuned for more pre-fall trends and styles that you need to know about. We'll catch you for a brand new episode every week, wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube.

Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast! We're continuing our "Women Supporting Women" series, and this week, we're thrilled to introduce Kristen Armstrong, the fabulous owner of Ensemble Consignment, an upscale resale store located on Charleston's historic King Street. IMPORTANT:  Be sure to watch the full interview on location on our YouTube channel!  Kristen's journey from corporate America to the world of high-end consignment is nothing short of inspiring, and her boutique has become a haven for those seeking unique, luxury pieces with a sustainable twist.   Ensemble is not just a store; it’s a testament to Kristen's passion for fashion, creativity, and community.   Join us as we dive into Kristen's story, her insights on sustainable shopping, and how she's making luxury fashion accessible to all.   Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply someone who loves a great deal, this episode is for you!   Don't Forget: Watch this fabulous interview on our YouTube channel!   Key Topics: From Finance to Fashion: Kristen's Journey Kristen shares her unconventional path from a career in finance to becoming the owner of a high-end consignment store. With no formal background in fashion, Kristen relied on her innate sense of style and entrepreneurial spirit to create a successful business from the ground up. The Art of Consignment: Curating a Unique Shopping Experience Ensemble is more than just a consignment store—it's a carefully curated collection of Charleston's most fashionable wardrobes. Kristen discusses her process for selecting items, emphasizing the importance of quality, style, and storytelling in each piece she sells. Sustainability in Style: The Importance of Second-Hand Shopping Kristen highlights the significance of sustainable shopping practices and how consignment stores like Ensemble contribute to reducing fashion waste. She also shares her philosophy on giving clothing a "Life Beyond the Mall," ensuring that each item finds a new home and continues to be loved. Fashion for All Ages: Dressing Confidently at Any Stage of Life With a clientele ranging from young adults to seasoned fashionistas, Kristen offers insights into how she helps women of all ages and sizes find outfits that make them feel fabulous. From styling tips to overcoming body image challenges, Kristen is a true advocate for fashion that empowers.   Holly's Take on Sustainable Style: As we delve into Kristen's world of consignment, it's clear that sustainable style is more than just a trend—it's a lifestyle.   Holly believes that investing in quality pieces, even if they’re pre-loved, is the way forward for fashion enthusiasts who care about both style and the planet.   Consignment shopping allows us to enjoy luxury and uniqueness without the environmental impact of fast fashion.   By giving clothing a second life, we’re not just shopping smarter; we’re making a positive difference in the world of fashion, one fabulous outfit at a time.     Closing Remarks: A huge thank you to Kristen Armstrong for sharing her incredible journey and for being a shining example of women supporting women in business.   Ensemble Consignment is not just a store; it's a movement towards more mindful, sustainable shopping, and we couldn't be more thrilled to feature Kristen in our series.   To all our listeners, remember that supporting small businesses, especially women-owned, is a powerful way to make a difference in your community.   And don't forget—sustainable fashion is always in style!   If you loved this episode, be sure to share it with your fashion besties and help spread the word about the joy of consignment shopping.  Stay fabulous, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

This week, the excitement of the 2024 Summer Olympics inspires a deep dive into sneaker culture. Discover essential styles, from workout sneakers that offer support to trendy fashion options. The conversation includes insights on the artistry of Olympic apparel, blending athletics with high fashion. Plus, learn about the significance of sock selection and organization for that perfect look. Personal transformation stories underscore the importance of comfort and style in everyday wear, making you rethink your sneaker game!

Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, your go-to source for all things fashion and style. This week, we're diving into a highly personal and inspiring topic: "How to Shop After Weight Loss."   Join your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz, along with special guest and lifelong bestie, Jessica Kupferman, a pivotal member of the FCP podcast community. Jessica is a co-founder and owner of She Podcasts, a dynamic women's podcasting community and live event organizer.   She's here to share her transformative journey through significant health changes and weight loss, exploring both the challenges and triumphs of redefining personal her style.   Before we get started: Go to our YouTube Channel to watch this episode!   Key Topics:   1. Health Challenges and Decisions:   o Jessica discusses her decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery, which was motivated by a desire to avoid the health issues that affected her mother, who passed away at a young age due to cancer that was diagnosed too late.   o This decision came after years of neglecting her own health due to stress and poor lifestyle choices, leading to a realization about the importance of proactive health management.   2. Emotional Adjustments:   o Post-surgery, Jessica faced significant emotional challenges, including dealing with body image issues and the psychological impacts of her physical transformation.   o She shares insights into the complexities of self-sabotage and anxiety that accompanied her weight loss, as well as the strategies she used to overcome these barriers, such as hypnosis and therapy.   3. Fashion Transformations:   o With her new body, Jessica ventured into the world of fashion with a new perspective. She talks about the practical aspects of shopping for clothes that fit her changing size, including the importance of getting properly fitted undergarments and the joy of wearing styles she previously felt were unattainable.   o Specific examples include transitioning from plus-size to standard sizes, exploring high-waisted pants paired with shorter tops, and the challenges of adjusting to how clothes fit her body type that continues to change.   4. Inspiration and Motivation:   o Jessica's physical changes have spurred a deeper engagement with her health and appearance. She describes how these changes have motivated her to maintain her health better, engage in physical activities she once avoided, and embrace a more active lifestyle. #YYYAASSSSS   o This newfound motivation extends to her approach to fashion, where she now takes joy in dressing up and feels inspired to present herself in ways that reflect her inner confidence and vitality.   5. ​Holly's Fashion Recommendations:   Holly provides targeted advice for Jessica and anyone navigating the challenges of shopping after significant weight loss.   Key recommendations include: o Prioritizing Proper Fit:   -Emphasizing the importance of wearing clothes that properly fit your new body shape, which will 100% include getting re-measured for foundational garments like bras and undergarments.  -Understanding the new sizes and cuts that best flatter your transformed figure.   o Updating the Wardrobe Gradually:   -Holly advises a gradual approach to wardrobe updates to accommodate ongoing body changes, suggesting an investment in transitional pieces that can adjust to slight size variations.   o Choosing Strategic Pieces:   -Recommending specific types of clothing that can enhance the appearance and boost confidence, such as high-waisted pants, structured tops, and layering pieces that can define the waist and balance proportions.   o Embracing New Styles:   -Encouraging exploration of new styles that may have felt off-limits before, such as bold prints, tailored outfits, and more form-fitting options, to celebrate and showcase your new body confidently.   o Maintaining an Adaptable Mindset:   Understanding that body shape may continue to change and adapting the fashion choices accordingly, while keeping a positive and open mindset towards these changes.   More Thoughts: We are so thankful to Jessica for allowing us to share in her transformative journey! This story inspires all our listeners to embrace change with style and grace; regardless of how big or small.    Remember, the Fashion Crimes Podcast is your ultimate fashion and style companion, offering the support and inspiration you need to explore your personal style in every phase of life! #FASHIONBESTIE   This episode is a heartfelt exploration of personal transformation and resilience, providing valuable insights and encouragement for anyone navigating similar paths. Please be sure to listen, download, follow, and share our podcast—because every woman deserves a fashion friend as fabulous as you!   Whether you're over 40 or waaayyyy over 40, this fashion podcast series is for YOU!   The Fashion Crimes Podcast drop Friday, subscription-free, wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to listen and follow us for more fashion inspiration and advice.   Stay Connected: Visit Fashion Crimes Podcast for more episodes, fashion tips, and to join our mailing list for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox for free, Every. Single. Week.