The Business of Fashion Podcast

Francesco Risso, former creative director at Prada and Marni, brings a unique artistic vision shaped by an adventurous childhood. He emphasizes the need for the fashion industry to slow down to rediscover love and craftsmanship in design. Risso shares insights on striking a balance between creativity and wearability while highlighting the importance of genuine collaboration. His journey reflects the essence of personal growth and transformation in fashion, underscoring the power of teamwork to push boundaries and reinvigorate creativity.

James Whitner, founder of The Whitaker Group and the brains behind A Ma Maniére and Social Status, shares his journey and insights into community-driven retail. He discusses the importance of empathy and intentionality in branding, prioritizing human connection over profit. Whitner reflects on his upbringing in Pittsburgh, highlighting the impact of socio-economic struggles on his perspective. He emphasizes building authentic relationships and nurturing Black culture, while also exploring sneaker exclusivity and its role in connecting communities.

In this discussion, Mike Sykes, a sports journalist with a focus on the intersection of sports and fashion, and Lei Takanashi, a correspondent covering sneaker trends, delve into the revival of basketball sneakers. They explore the shift from functional designs to fashion statements, driven by new player personalities like Anthony Edwards. The conversation highlights how recent innovations and a growing spotlight on female athletes, alongside nostalgic interest in retro styles, are reshaping the sneaker culture and market dynamics.

Sophie Soar, BOF Careers editor and co-author of the 2025 Careers Report, discusses the shifting landscape of fashion and beauty jobs. Employees now prioritize fair pay, career growth, and alignment with company values over traditional perks. With 45% of professionals seeking new roles, transparency in salaries and advancement is crucial for engagement. Soar emphasizes that hybrid work environments and fostered community connections can increase satisfaction. Trust in leadership regarding diversity and sustainability is essential for retaining top talent today.

Duran Lantink, a Dutch designer celebrated for his playful experimentation and innovative collections, discusses his unique journey in fashion. He reflects on staging his first runway show at just 14 and the transformative power of repurposed materials. Lantink shares exhilarating stories, including a wild night at a jazz festival after-party that shaped his artistic identity. As the new creative director at Jean-Paul Gaultier, he emphasizes embracing individuality and freedom in fashion, while highlighting the significance of upcycling and the creative community in overcoming industry challenges.

Sarah Kent, Chief Sustainability Correspondent, sheds light on the unsettling links between luxury brand Loro Piana and exploitative sweatshops. She discusses the systemic negligence in luxury supply chains, where profit often trumps ethical practices. Kent analyzes the growing scrutiny luxury brands face amid rising consumer demands for transparency and accountability. The conversation dives into the harsh realities of labor conditions in the fashion industry and the potential shifts in regulation that could reshape brand responsibility.

Jérôme Mage, the visionary founder of luxury eyewear brand Jacques Marie Mage, shares his journey from rural France to the creative hub of Los Angeles. He discusses the transformative nature of sunglasses and their role in personal identity, emphasizing how they can serve as cultural symbols. Mage reveals his inspirations from history and craftsmanship, along with the challenges of balancing creativity with commercial demands. With a focus on quality over mass production, he highlights the significance of storytelling in fashion and the strength found in an outsider's perspective.

Joan Kennedy, a correspondent focusing on tariffs and consumer behavior, and Marc Bain, who covers trade and supply chains, dive into the resurgence of tariff threats from Trump. They discuss the rising apparel prices reflecting these tariffs and how brands are grappling with consumer sensitivity and price perceptions. The duo highlights the complications of supply chain diversification, revealing that even alternative production hubs are facing tariff challenges. Their insights shed light on the fashion industry’s evolving strategies amidst economic uncertainty.

Tim Blanks, Editor-at-large at The Business of Fashion, dives into the transformative season of luxury fashion, discussing new creative leadership techniques at major houses like Dior and Maison Margiela. He reflects on Jonathan Anderson's debut collection, emphasizing its intent to manage expectations. The conversation also highlights Rick Owens as a figure of authenticity, creating spaces for diverse beauty. Lastly, Tim and his co-host address the evolving dynamics of the luxury market, especially concerning accessibility and storytelling in fashion.

Diana Pearl, the Senior News and Features Editor at BOF, dives into the surprising alliance between fashion and The Real Housewives. She discusses how reality TV transformed from a guilty pleasure into a major cultural influence, largely thanks to the Kardashians. As the Housewives flaunt designer wardrobes, they've become key players in fashion storytelling, driving trends and sales. Pearl also imagines dream partnerships between brands and iconic housewives, highlighting their unique styles and marketing prowess.