Off Duty With AK Brown

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Today I'm breaking down the latest fashion headlines and giving my take on New York Fashion Week. From Jaden Smith being named the first men's creative director for Christian Louboutin and the conversation of whether celebrities deserve these roles or should stick to being brand ambassadors, to SZA stepping into creative direction with Vans, KBB by Kahlana's launch at Target in the middle of their DEI fallout, Chloe Malle stepping in as Vogue's new editor while Vogue Runway moves behind a paywall, and DSW's attempt to rebrand in a struggling retail climate. I'm also talking about what it really means for influencers to become editors, and why I had to make the decision not to attend NYFW this season.

Key Moments:

• Jaden Smith's appointment at Louboutin and if celebrity creative directors are truly qualified

• SZA taking on creative direction at Vans

• KBB by Kahlana's Target launch and the conflict of supporting Black designers through problematic retailers

• Chloe Malle as Vogue's new editor and the shift toward quarterly issues

• Vogue Runway moving behind a paywall and the backlash around access to fashion coverage

• DSW's rebrand with new stores, logo, and in-store customization in a collapsing retail climate

• The ongoing debate of influencers becoming editors and whether they are actually doing the work

• Why I chose not to attend New York Fashion Week this season and what that says about fashion's accessibility

Next Week Sneak Peek: I'll be diving into Project Runway plus a roundup of the latest fashion news.

Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program

• Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab the Intro Into Fashion PR Workbook: akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook

• Be a guest on the show: akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest

• Become a 2025 client or mentee: akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications

• Follow me on Instagram: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

In this episode, I'm talking about what it's like to be overqualified, underpaid, and overlooked in the fashion industry—while still expected to show up, deliver, and thrive. I'm sharing the reality of trying to build a career when the opportunities and pay don't match the work, the pressure of navigating social media trends that don't fit my brand, and the constant push to make it all work.

Then, I'm giving you my fashion editor POV on why your pitches aren't landing. From missing editorial deadlines to ignoring submission guidelines, I'm breaking down the exact mistakes I see and what you can do to actually get featured.

Key Moments:

• The emotional and financial toll of being overqualified but underpaid in fashion

• Why I won't chase social media content that doesn't serve my brand

• What editors really look for when reviewing pitches

• How editorial calendars impact your chances of getting featured

• Why entitlement and generic pitches get you ignored in fashion media

Next Week Sneak Peek:Next episode, I'm recapping Project Runway and covering the latest fashion headlines

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: https://advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program/

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

Welcome back to The Haute Guide!

This week, I'm breaking down my 2025 guide to pitching yourself in fashion—whether you want press features, brand deals, or speaking opportunities. I'm giving you the exact tools you need, where to find the right contacts, and how to approach editors, brands, and event organizers so your pitch actually gets noticed.

I'm also weighing in on Ami Colé's brand closure and what it says about the state of Black-owned beauty brands, plus the growing use of AI models in campaigns—and why it's both an ethical and industry game-changer.

Key Moments:

• The real reason Ami Colé closing matters for Black fashion entrepreneurs

• How AI models could change fashion marketing (and not always for the better)

• The must-have assets every fashion creative needs before pitching

• Where to find direct opportunities with editors and brands

• Cold pitching tips that work in 2025

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: https://advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program/

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide!

In this episode, I'm talking about why funding Black media is absolutely non-negotiable.

I'm unpacking how major fashion magazines rely heavily on advertising dollars—with over half of some issues filled with ads. But flip through those pages, and you'll barely see Black-owned brands featured—or even Black faces in many of the campaigns.

While I get that advertising keeps publications running, the reality is most Black brands don't have $50,000 or $100,000 to spend on a single ad page. This lack of access fuels a bigger systemic problem: fewer opportunities for visibility, growth, and recognition in the industry.

That's why I created the Black Fashion Media Equity Program—to offer free ad space to Black fashion and beauty brands. Because if we want true representation and equity in fashion, we need to make sure Black media has the resources to thrive and amplify our stories.

Key Moments:

• Breaking down how much ad space takes up in big fashion magazines—and who actually gets those ads

• The financial hurdles Black fashion entrepreneurs face trying to afford premium ad rates

• How the lack of ad dollars ties into broader systemic issues around visibility and opportunity

• An inside look at the Black Fashion Media Equity Program and its mission

• Why funding Black media platforms is essential for long-term change in the fashion industry

Next Week Sneak Peek:Next episode, I'm diving into Steve Madden's viral interview, recapping Paris Men's Fashion Week, and sharing what it's really like running a fashion magazine as a Black editor. Plus—where are we supposed to shop now that these brands keep acting up?

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: https://advisormag.co/the-black-fashion-media-equity-program/

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide!

In this episode, I'm sharing my experiences as a Black woman working in fashion in the Midwest—the lack of opportunities, the microaggressions, and why I'm not here to play the token role for anybody.

I'm also walking you through how to plan out your social media content as a fashionpreneur. I'm talking brand pillars, figuring out what your audience wants to see, and how to use tools like ChatGPT without losing your own voice.

And for AK's Fashion Rant of the Week, I've got thoughts on Anna Wintour stepping down, Vogue's messiness, Steve Madden's viral moment, and why the fashion industry needs to get back to the actual plot of fashion.

Key Moments:

• Talking about why the Midwest can be a tough place for Black women in fashion

• The realities of microaggressions, lack of opportunities, and why I refuse to be the token Black voice

• Why I left corporate and built my own lane

• The mess around Anna Wintour leaving Vogue and my thoughts on who Vogue even speaks to these days

• Steve Madden's viral interview and why people are loving his transparency

• Step-by-step on how to plan a social media content calendar as a fashionpreneur

• The importance of brand pillars and audience insights

• Using ChatGPT the right way—and why it's a tool, not a replacement for your own voice

• My thoughts on industry politics, crabs-in-a-barrel mentality, and protecting your peace as a creative

Related Past Episodes:

• Branding & Social Media Strategy for Fashionpreneurs Pt. 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-haute-guide/id1661230412?i=1000690044168

Shoutouts + Special Mentions:

• The Cutting Room Floor — Check out their Patreon for Steve Madden's full episode

• Imad Eduso— For the skirt that helped blow up my Instagram reach (here's the link to my viral reel: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ2_7MiM_CP/)

• Other publications worth reading: WWD, Business of Fashion, and indie platforms that dig deeper than Vogue

• My social media content caledar for AK Brown: https://www.notion.so/1937a91ad565808cb21edeb09e189cdb?v=1937a91ad56580398ca5000ce5d6eb3a&source=copy_link

• My social media content calendar template — included below if you're ready to organize your content:

  • https://teal-cold-790.notion.site/2267a91ad56580a89ffdd9a5aadb74c8?v=2267a91ad565800e9eed000c63f3ccb1&source=copy_link

• ChatGPT prompt templates — included below to help you plan your own calendar:

  • 'Help me create a 3-month fashion content calendar with Reels, carousels, fashion commentary, SEO titles, captions, alt text, and hashtags. My pillars are [e.g. fashion education, personal style]. My audience is [e.g. Black women in fashion]. My vibe is [e.g. professional, sassy]. I want to post [e.g. 3–5 times per week].'

Next Week Sneak Peek:Next episode, I'm diving deeper into Steve Madden's podcast, Paris Men's Fashion Week recaps, and sharing what it's really like running a fashion magazine. Plus—where are we supposed to shop now that brands keep acting up?

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!

I'm back, y'all. Season 2 of The Haute Guide is here, and I'm bringing even more of what you came for — unfiltered fashion talk, real industry insights, and the gems you didn't even know you needed. This season, I'm diving into what it really takes to break into fashion, build your brand, and stay relevant, while also giving my hot takes on the headlines and moments shaking up the industry. If you're ready for fashion talk with a side of strategy and a lot of personality, pull up a seat — we've got a lot to cover.

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide!

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the 2025 Met Gala, unpacking this year's compelling theme: "Superfine", inspired by Monica Miller's exploration of Black dandyism. Join me as I candidly break down the hits, misses, and everything in between on fashion's biggest night.

Here's what's inside:

• My honest thoughts on who beautifully embodied the "Superfine" theme—including Janelle Monae's stunning "time traveler" concept, Tracee Ellis Ross's bold historical homage, and André 3000's brilliant nod to traveling musicians.

• The styling missteps that left me scratching my head: Zendaya's unexpected duplicate look and Megan Thee Stallion's disappointing Michael Kors dress.

• A personal glimpse into my own "Superfine" look for a Met Gala viewing party at the Ritz Carlton, complete with a custom floor-length durag, embracing Black dandyism with my unique twist.

• Reflections on how the fashion industry at large missed a prime opportunity to truly honor and elevate Black culture, creativity, and historical significance.

Plus, I'm sharing a heartfelt update about my recent health journey, why I've been away from fashion events, and how this Met Gala reignited my passion and purpose.

Key Moments:

• Best Dressed Spotlight: Janelle Monae, Tracee Ellis Ross, Tessa Thompson, Ava DuVernay, Kerry Washington.

• Critical Takeaways: Why Law Roach dropped the ball with Zendaya, and how Megan Thee Stallion and Coco Jones missed opportunities to solidify their personal brands.

• Personal Connection: The deeper meaning behind my own dandy-inspired look and how it marked my return to the fashion scene.

Shoutouts + Special Mentions:

• Naheemah's Tracee Ellis Ross Deep Dive: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjyedJBM/

• My current Met Gala Deep Dives & Personal Style Moments:
  • https://www.instagram.com/p/DJUU8MLt6g0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
  • https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJUi86Mp6a0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
  • https://www.instagram.com/p/DJW5kIONvpA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
  • https://www.instagram.com/p/DJcDocGNuUH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
  • https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJXWgCvSzwX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
  • https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjye8Apb/
  • https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjyeNesX/

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Can y'all already believe it's been 5 years since I got fired?! That moment is what pivoted my journey in fashion into the brand you know today - so I'm using that as the catalyst for the 2025 version on how to get your start in fashion!

✨ Mentioned in This Episode:

• 🇨🇳 How China's tariffs and luxury factory tea are shaking up the entire fashion game (and what that means for small brands and consumers)

• 💰 Why it's time to lock your spending down, find your community, and prepare for the financial storms ahead

• 👜 The real deal behind buying dupes and sourcing overseas — and why it ain't as easy (or drama-free) as TikTok makes it seem

• 🎭 The behind-the-scenes of the Met Gala, why most people ain't invited, and why Wisdom Kaye deserves a damn seat at the table

• 🛣️ My 4 non-negotiables for starting your career in fashion in 2025:

  • Research your market BEFORE you move

  • Build a strong personal brand — yes, even for corporate life

  • Get serious about networking online and in-person

  • Give yourself grace, space, and TIME — real growth ain't overnight

Shoutouts + Special Mentions:

• Carlos and Milwaukee Fashion Week 🔥

• Black Fashion STL and my student Kendal 💖

• Shelby Ivey Christie — fashion historian GOAT, go follow her

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 https://www.youtube.com/@akbrownstl

• Milwaukee Fashion Week Details: https://www.mkefw.com/

• Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: https://www.akbrownstl.com/product/intro-into-fashion-pr-workbook/

• Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/be-a-gusest/

• Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: https://www.akbrownstl.com/2025-client-applications/

• Follow me everywhere: @akbrownstl

• Website: www.akbrownstl.com

• Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Today we're diving deep into financial literacy for fashionpreneurs—a topic we often avoid but need to master. In this episode, I break down the financial struggles of running a fashion business, share my own experiences from starting out as a blogger to building multiple brands, and discuss the biggest financial mistakes fashion entrepreneurs make.

PLUS, I have a special guest—Michael Rangel, Founder & CEO of Novo.Co, which is my business bank platform of choice. We discuss how fintech is changing the game for small business owners and how you can take control of your business finances.

💻 Novo Platform – My go-to for small business banking. Sign up here: https://onboarding.novo.co/signup?referral_code=AlexandriaBrown1&first_name=Alexandria 🛍 Jance Chartae – E-commerce & boutique expert. Follow her for fashion biz tips! 💡 ChatGPT & AI – How I use AI to optimize business strategy

📌 Audit your finances: Are you separating personal & business expenses? 📌 Research business banking options: If you don't have a business bank, start with Novo 📌 Check your pricing strategy: Are you actually making a profit? 📌 Plan for the future: Look at your cash flow, taxes, and funding option

📲 Follow me on Instagram: @akbrownstl 🌐 Website: www.akbrownstl.com 📖 Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!

*Novo is a fintech company; not a bank. Deposit account services provided by Middlesex Federal Savings, F.A., Member FDIC. Physical debit cards issued by Middlesex Federal Savings or Patriot Bank, N.A., Member FDIC; virtual cards issued by Patriot Bank, pursuant to licenses from Mastercard® International Incorporated. Mastercard can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! After a brief hiatus (sorry yall!), I'm back with an insightful episode about branding, social media strategy, and how to refine your brand for success. I break down my own brand refresh process, how I'm reworking my content strategy, and how you can do the same for your fashion business, whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or industry professional.

• Why I took a break and what I've been working on
• My personal branding overhaul and why it's necessary for 2025
• The role of social media in business growth and how I'm approaching my strategy
• How to use ChatGPT and AI for branding and content planning
• Breaking down audience personas and why knowing your audience is key
• My content pillars and how they shape my strategy
• Homework: Steps to analyze your brand, define your audience, and track your content strategy

✅ A deep dive into branding and refining your social media strategy ✅ The importance of visuals and working with a branding expert (shoutout to Joan Fisher!) ✅ Using ChatGPT for content creation and branding insights ✅ Creating an audience persona to tailor your content and engagement strategies ✅ A step-by-step approach to developing a strong brand and content strategy

• Follow Joan Fisher (Saint Louis) – An absolute visual powerhouse! If you're in St. Louis or beyond, I highly recommend working with her for branding & editorial photography. You can book her whether you're local or willing to fly her out! Follow Joan & connect: https://www.instagram.com/joan_fisher/
• Identify your brand pillars
• Define your audience personas and where they show up online
• Analyze your social media stats (followers, engagement, CTRs, etc.)
• Start building out your content strategy

🔜 Special guest interview with Michael Rangel, CEO of Novo Bank! We'll be discussing financial strategies for fashion entrepreneurs—don't miss it! (If you want to go ahead and apply for an account, you can do so here!: https://onboarding.novo.co/signup?referral_code=AlexandriaBrown1&first_name=Alexandria)

📲 Follow me on Instagram: @akbrownstl 🌐 Website: www.akbrownstl.com 📖 Read Advisor. Magazine: www.advisormag.co

💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!