Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud
Bella Freud
Each week join the renowned fashion designer Bella Freud as she invites a special guest to ‘lie on the couch’ and explore the connection between fashion and identity. Bella’s conversations begin with questions about style and what we reveal through the clothes we wear. Bella also shares her own anecdotes and the conversations expand into deeper discussions on life’s universal themes—love, identity, culture, anxiousness, and even politics.
Through a series of tailored questions, Bella creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where her guests—ranging from fashion icons to cultural figures in sport, art, music and literature reveal more about themselves than they might expect. Fashion is often dismissed as superficial, but in this podcast, it becomes the lens through which we examine our inner lives, relationships, and society.
From Kate Moss to other notable guests, Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud offers a unique, thoughtful, and engaging conversation that goes far beyond what we wear: diving into the unspoken language of clothing and the ways in which we use style to navigate and communicate in the world.
www.fashionneurosis.com
www.fashionneurosis.substack.com
@fashioneurosis_bellafreud
Through a series of tailored questions, Bella creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where her guests—ranging from fashion icons to cultural figures in sport, art, music and literature reveal more about themselves than they might expect. Fashion is often dismissed as superficial, but in this podcast, it becomes the lens through which we examine our inner lives, relationships, and society.
From Kate Moss to other notable guests, Fashion Neurosis with Bella Freud offers a unique, thoughtful, and engaging conversation that goes far beyond what we wear: diving into the unspoken language of clothing and the ways in which we use style to navigate and communicate in the world.
www.fashionneurosis.com
www.fashionneurosis.substack.com
@fashioneurosis_bellafreud
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 22, 2025 • 52min
Fashion Neurosis with Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson is an American actor. Her father is the musician Marc Antony Thompson who founded the musical collective Chocolate Genius Inc. She was raised between New York and Los Angeles, making her stage debut as Ariel in the Los Angeles Women’s Shakespeare Company production of The Tempest. Tessa has been nominated for two BAFTAs and a Primetime Emmy for her work in the 2021 film Passing directed by Rebecca Hall, and the 2020 film Sylvie’s Love. She is also known for her role as Valkyrie in Thor: Ragnarok and as Bianca in the Creed franchise.
Thompson founded her own production company Viva Maude in 2021, which has produced Hedda, the new adaptation of Hedda Gabler directed by Nia DaCosta, in which she plays the lead. Her fashion-forward style and elegance is the subject of much interest, and she is a muse to the American designer brand Rodarte.
In this episode of Fashion Neurosis, Bella Freud and Tessa Thompson discuss playing male roles, tidying up the house in a heel, and fashion not being armour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
7 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 28min
Fashion Neurosis with Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong, a celebrated Vietnamese-American poet and novelist, delves into the intersections of style, family, and writing. He highlights how thrifted fashion reflects his creative process and the personal symbolism behind his jewelry. Discussing the nuances between poetry and prose, he shares insights on artistic evolution and the importance of continual growth in style. Vuong also tackles profound topics like addiction, community fortitude, and the societal impact of the opioid crisis, all while connecting his lived experiences to his literary works.
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
Fashion Neurosis with David Cronenberg
David Cronenberg, the visionary Canadian director behind iconic films like The Fly and Videodrome, dives into the intersection of fashion, body, and identity. He humorously prefers comfy sweats over formal attire, while recalling the fashion influences of the 1960s on his youth. Cronenberg explores the beauty in body horror, shares insights on adapting literature, and reflects on his complex relationship with nudity. His discussions reveal how humor and existential themes intertwine in his films, showcasing the intimate connections between the body and our perceptions of self.
Oct 1, 2025 • 50min
Fashion Neurosis with Zandra Rhodes
Dame Zandra Rhodes, a pioneer in British fashion known for her vibrant prints and signature pink hair, shares her fascinating journey from textile design to making her own clothes. She reflects on the influence of her mother and her friendship with Divine, the cult actor. Zandra also discusses her breakthrough moment with Diana Vreeland, her unique approach to beauty in design, and the importance of craftsmanship in fashion. With a heartfelt look at her Damehood and ongoing projects, Rhodes continues to inspire with her creative spirit.
Sep 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
Fashion Neurosis with Kojey Radical
Kojey Radical, a British musician and visual artist known for his thought-provoking blend of spoken word and rap, shares insights into his creative journey. He discusses the empowering force of his mother's tough love and reflects on the cultural significance of personal style choices like grills. Humorously, he highlights the passive-aggressive nature of a fish finger sandwich. Kojey also dives into the meaning behind his new album, Don't Look Down, emphasizing adaptability as a superpower in an ever-changing landscape.
Sep 17, 2025 • 1h 1min
Fashion Neurosis with Rachel Kushner
Rachel Kushner, an acclaimed author known for her novels like The Mars Room, shares her vibrant journey from a political economy student to a literary powerhouse. She and Bella Freud chat about their evolving friendship, the allure of fashion as a reflection of cultural experiences, and the lessons drawn from Dolly Parton's inspiring persona. They delve into the intersection of art and identity, discussing the pressures of the literary world while embracing authenticity. The conversation also touches on the importance of personal health choices and their impact on creativity and well-being.
Sep 10, 2025 • 57min
Fashion Neurosis with Amelia Dimoldenberg
Amelia Dimoldenberg is an English comedian, writer, and the creator and presenter of her sensational Youtube series Chicken Shop Date. Chicken Shop Date began as a column in a youth club magazine, originally focusing on Amelia interviewing British grime artists in chicken shops around London. It has since expanded to one of the most popular series on Youtube, with Amelia interviewing some of the world’s most high profile actors, models, and musicians. Known for her dry, deadpan humour, Dimoldenberg has in recent years begun interviewing celebrities on red carpets, including at the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Brit Awards. Her production company Dimz Inc. recently launched Dimz Inc. Academy, a week-long programme for young people interested in working in the creative industries.
In this episode of Fashion Neurosis, Bella Freud and Amelia Dimoldenberg discuss The Devil Wears Prada, the appeal of an awkward silence, and how sexy is embarrassing.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
13 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 14min
Fashion Neurosis with John Malkovich
John Malkovich, the acclaimed actor and director, shares fascinating insights into his eclectic career. He reminisces about his grandfather’s obsession with Lassie and unveils the inspiration behind his fashion brand, Mr Mudd. Malkovich also delves into the creative process of his film 'Being John Malkovich,' discussing the unique emotional connections formed in artistic collaborations. With humor and depth, he reflects on how personal style intertwines with emotion, making for a compelling conversation between creativity and identity.
4 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 47min
Fashion Neurosis Greatest Hits vol. 1
Explore the emotional connections people have with their clothing, especially during tough times. Dive into personal insecurities around body image and the transformative power of fashion. Discover the joyful health benefits of cold water therapy and how it uplifts mood. Learn about the unique experiences of embodying male characters in performance art. Laugh along with quirky romantic encounters, emphasizing how personal traits influence relationships. Reflect on the complexities of identity through fashion choices and their emotional significance.
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 46min
Fashion Neurosis with Nick Knight
Nick Knight, a visionary image maker and founder of SHOWstudio.com, dives into his journey through fashion photography and art. He shares personal anecdotes about his fashion influences, exploring how cultural shifts shaped his identity. The conversation highlights the evolution of fashion films and the complex relationship between beauty and self-expression. Knight discusses the pressures of the fashion industry and the significance of compassion in representation. His reflections on collaboration and the transformative nature of art provide a fascinating insight into the creative process.
