menSwear by a Woman

From tuxedos in Harlem nightclubs to tailored suits behind BBC microphones, this episode unpacks the radical legacy of women who wore menswear and made history doing it. From Marlene Dietrich’s Hollywood tux to Gladys Bentley’s jazz swagger, from aviators like Amelia Earhart and Bessie Coleman to Indian royals like Maharani Gayatri Devi and Princess Indira Devi these women didn't just break the rules, they rewrote them. Join me as we explore how women across time, race, and culture used fashion not as costume but as a powerful language of rebellion, identity, and freedom.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Ian Holdcroft, co-founder of Shackleton Apparel a brand deeply inspired by the legendary Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. We explore the journey behind building a label that’s more than just outerwear it’s a tribute to resilience, courage, and leadership. Ian shares how Shackleton’s incredible legacy influences the brand’s mission, the challenges of launching a purpose-driven company, and what it takes to design gear that’s as bold and enduring as the man it's named after. Whether you're an entrepreneur, explorer, or simply someone in search of inspiration, this conversation will leave you motivated to push your limits.

In today’s solo episode, I dive into the world of Dandism its quiet elegance, its loud rebellion, and the cultural significance often overlooked. Inspired by the recent Met Gala, which sadly felt more like a clash than a celebration, I reflect on how Dandism has historically been a form of resistance, a declaration of identity, and a fight for visibility in the world of menswear. Was this tension at the Gala just fashion drama, or is it something deeper perhaps orchestrated by the fashion elite? Have we lost sight of what these men stood for? Let’s explore the roots, the rebellion, and the beauty of Dandism together.

Ken Sakata, founder of the menswear brand Front Office, shares his remarkable journey from aspiring doctor to fashion visionary. He discusses how a pandemic-inspired passion for menswear transformed his life and led to crafting garments that are as much about fit as they are about expression. Ken dives into the fusion of medical precision and creativity in design, the challenges of establishing authenticity in a crowded space, and the importance of personal growth and resilience in navigating new beginnings within the fashion industry.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michael Maccari a visionary whose career has spanned some of the most iconic names in fashion. From serving as Artistic Director at Truth Alone to Creative Director at Perry Ellis, and holding key roles at Armani Exchange, Polo Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and J.Crew, Michael brings decades of experience in menswear design and leadership. We dive deep into what menswear has been, what it’s becoming, and how to balance intense creative demands with personal lifestyle. From the studio to the boardroom, Michael shares how he navigates the pressures of a high level creative role without losing sight of his passion. Join us for a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look into the evolving world of fashion and the resilience it takes to lead creatively at the top.

Today's episode features one of the authors behind Magnetic, a powerful tribute to the late Massimo Osti and his legendary clothing labels C.P. Company, Boneville, and Stone Island. We dive into Tony's personal journey into the world of menswear and explore what drew him to Osti's iconic brands. Our conversation unpacks how these labels became essential pieces of 90s youth culture especially on the football terraces, where they weren’t just clothes, but cultural statements. We discuss Magnetic, the book co authored by Tony Rivers and James Burnett, which chronicles how Osti’s designs made their way to the UK and left an indelible mark on both menswear and football culture. From the idea of a "uniform" worn by terrace-goers to the emergence of a new subculture, this episode uncovers how clothing became a language of identity, rebellion, and unity. Join us for an insightful conversation on the intersection of menswear, football, and 90s youth culture and how it all helped shape a pivotal era in menswear.

Today’s episode is a deep dive into the mind of Suhail Sahrawat,, founder of Garuda SS a label that blurs the lines between workwear, streetwear, and avant-garde with surgical precision and raw creativity. Garuda SS isn’t just about clothes; it’s about attitude, comfort, and pushing boundaries without taking itself too seriously. We talk design. We talk identity. We talk about building a brand that feels more like an extension of self than a fashion label. Suhail opens up about his creative process, his unfiltered approach to style, and how Garuda SS became an international force with its own unapologetic voice. This isn’t your average fashion chat it’s a conversation about making art you can wear. Tune in and get inspired.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Nick Clements, founder of Men's File Magazine. With decades of experience in photography and a deep passion for menswear, Nick’s knowledge and expertise stand out in the fashion world. His insights into menswear photography, combined with his dedication to curating one of the most influential magazines in the industry, have made him an inspiration to many. Nick’s detailed understanding of heritage and vintage menswear is truly unique, and his ability to share such rich, thoughtful insights makes this conversation a must listen. We dive into the core of menswear inspiration and explore how Nick’s journey has shaped his approach to the industry. Join us for an enlightening discussion about the fashion that shapes us all. Join us for an insightful discussion about the timeless styles and craftsmanship that define menswear and continue to shape the industry.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Marie Remy, founder of The French Workwear Company, as she takes us through her fascinating journey from a career in music to becoming a leading authority on vintage French workwear. Marie shares how she began curating one of a kind pieces that each carry their own unique history and story. She also delves into the importance of vintage French workwear and how its blend of history and graphics has shaped the landscape of modern menswear. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation about the world of vintage menswear and its lasting influence on today’s style.

Streetwear is evolving, and today's episode delves into how it looks in the modern world. Join Ankit Duggal founder of Back Alley Bodega, as we discuss the intersection of creativity, craftsmanship, and authenticity in streetwear. Ankit takes us behind the scenes of his label, sharing the inspiration and the story behind blending traditional fabrics with street culture. We also explore the future of streetwear and how craftsmanship plays a key role in shaping its direction. Tune in to hear Ankit’s vision for where streetwear is headed and why his brand is paving the way for a new era in streetwear.