John Wojcik is an esteemed professional working for the UN in Southeast Asia with a deep-rooted passion for classic menswear. Alongside his partner Christopher Siakkas, who works in the financial sector in London, they have co-founded Silk Exchange, a platform dedicated to the sustainable resale of high-end classic menswear. Their combined expertise and fervor for sartorial excellence make them the perfect duo to delve into the nuances of classic menswear and its impact on sustainability and personal style.

In this episode, you'll learn:

- How classic menswear can serve as a sustainable alternative to fast fashion

- The emotional and environmental benefits of investing in quality menswear

- Practical tips on finding high-quality menswear items at reduced prices

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Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:29 Meet John and Christopher
03:20 Discussing the Menswear Resale Market
04:56 The Sustainability of Classic Menswear
06:57 Building Silk Exchange
13:10 Creating a Community
21:44 The Origin of Silk Exchange
27:58 The Essence of Silk Exchange
28:33 Navigating the Platform
30:58 Community and Quality Assurance
33:27 Team and Global Presence
35:23 Staff Picks and Favorite Items
37:29 Building a Supplier Network
40:23 Unique Selling Points
45:05 Personal Style and Inspiration
52:18 The Meaning of Always Be Fly

VISIT SILKXCHANGE:
📸https://www.instagram.com/silkxchange/

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Welcome to “The Fashion Geek Podcast,” an opinionated (well, it's from New York), straight from the hip, no pretension podcast for men who don't know a lot about Men's Fashion and want to learn more. Hosted by Reg Ferguson (Fashion Geek Number #1), Founder of New York Fashion Geek, a Men's Fashion consultancy that helps men go from Fashion Confused to Fashion Confident. On this podcast, Reg dives deep into brands and trends, sharing stories from the world of Men's fashion that will help you become Fashion Confident.

Irene Zimmerman is the creative force behind "Irene's Closet BK," a cherished vintage shop nestled in Brooklyn, New York. With her expert eye for unique, high-quality men's vintage clothing, Irene has cultivated a loyal following among fashion enthusiasts. Her dedication to reducing, reusing, and recycling through vintage fashion makes her an authority on sustainable style, and she brings this passion to her highly curated offerings.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- How to curate a mix of loud, eccentric, and basic vintage clothing

- The significance of hyperlocal sourcing and the value of natural fibers

- Strategic tips for starting and running an outdoor pop-up vintage shop

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Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Fashion Geek
00:07 Meet Irene Zimmerman of Irene's Closet BK
00:21 The Appeal of Vintage Shopping
00:42 Irene's Journey into Vintage Fashion
03:35 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Vintage Shop 07:43 Community and Business Support
12:24 Navigating Weather and Logistics
16:21 Product Selection and Customer Preferences
20:43 The Importance of Natural Fibers
21:39 Curating a Unique Store Experience
22:35 Pricing Strategy and Customer Response
26:22 Seasonal Shopping and Inventory Management
27:20 Building Customer Relationships
28:39 The Value of Vintage for Men
30:25 Exploring Online Sales
32:15 Sourcing and Selecting Inventory
37:11 Financial Goals and Budgeting
39:03 Commitment to Menswear
40:28 Where to Find Irene's Closet
41:30 Always Be Fly: A Life Philosophy

CONNECT WITH IRENE:
📸https://www.instagram.com/irenesclosetbk/

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Pedro Mendez is an aficionado of timepieces with a distinct passion for Swatch watches. He brings a wealth of personal anecdotes and insights into the world of quartz watches, all while maintaining a discerning eye for their cultural and environmental impact. Having grown up in New York City, Pedro's experiences with iconic brands and evolving fashion trends lend him a credible and invaluable perspective on the interplay between nostalgia and innovation in horology.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- The emotional and cultural significance of Swatch watches and their impact in the 80s and 90s.

- The advantages and pitfalls of quartz movement compared to mechanical watches.

- How environmental and ethical concerns shape modern consumer choices in fashion and timepieces.

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Fashion Geek
00:07 Meet Irene Zimmerman of Irene's Closet BK
00:21 The Appeal of Vintage Shopping
00:42 Irene's Journey into Vintage Fashion
03:35 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Vintage Shop 07:43 Community and Business Support
12:24 Navigating Weather and Logistics
16:21 Product Selection and Customer Preferences
20:43 The Importance of Natural Fibers
21:39 Curating a Unique Store Experience
22:35 Pricing Strategy and Customer Response
26:22 Seasonal Shopping and Inventory Management
27:20 Building Customer Relationships
28:39 The Value of Vintage for Men
30:25 Exploring Online Sales
32:15 Sourcing and Selecting Inventory
37:11 Financial Goals and Budgeting
39:03 Commitment to Menswear
40:28 Where to Find Irene's Closet
41:30 Always Be Fly: A Life Philosophy

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Jordan Stolch is the founder of Mikado Personal Styling and has nearly a decade of experience in the fashion industry. Based in Los Angeles, Jordan specializes in providing tailored fashion solutions that empower clients to elevate their performance and confidence. With a unique approach to personal styling, Jordan takes pride in creating a judgment-free environment where clients can explore and refine their personal style, making her an ideal guest to delve into the transformative power of clothing.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- The detailed process behind personalized styling consultations

- How to navigate the logistical challenges of managing fashion returns

- The impact of COVID-19 on personal styling and the pivot to successful virtual services

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:21 Meet the Hosts: Reg and Tiff
00:50 Special Guest: Jordan Stolz from LA
01:36 Fashion Consulting vs. Styling
04:18 Impact of Fashion on Confidence
11:32 Client Success Stories
20:18 Jordan's Journey to LA
24:18 Challenges of LA's Fashion Scene
27:38 The Challenges of Client Fittings and Long Drives
29:10 Managing Client Appointments and Time
32:11 Diet and Health for Peak Performance
33:01 The Genesis of Mikado and Business Model
39:19 The Client Consultation Process
43:56 Shopping and Fitting Logistics
50:28 Impact of COVID-19 on Business
55:02 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

CONNECT WITH JORDAN:
📸https://www.instagram.com/mikadopersonalstyling/?hl=en

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Andreas Varios, known as "mister New York City subway" on Instagram, is a dynamic photographer and fashion enthusiast who has transitioned from a career in law to full-time content creation. With a unique blend of fashion, creativity, and authentic storytelling, Andreas has made a significant impact in the New York City fashion scene. His collaborations with renowned brands such as Alton Lane and Parmigiani Fluere, along with his engaging photography projects on the subway, establish him as a credible voice in men's fashion and content creation.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- How Andreas transformed his negative perspective of the New York City subway into a source of creative inspiration

- The significance of personal style and well-fitted clothing in boosting confidence and expressing individuality

- Insights on collaborating with high-end brands and navigating the transition from a structured career to full-time content creation

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Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:21 Meet the Hosts: Reg and Tiff
00:45 Special Guest: Andreas Varios, Mr. New York City Subway
01:45 Andreas' Journey to New York and Photography
04:56 Transforming the Subway Experience
16:15 Fashion on the Subway
22:36 Goorin Bros Collaboration
28:34 Reflecting on Pre-COVID Photography
29:08 Approaching Strangers for Photos
30:27 Learning the Right Pitch
32:14 Fashion Collaborations and Experiences
34:23 The Art of Tailored Suits
38:35 Independent Artist Journey
48:21 Passion for 80s Culture
54:27 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

💜Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢Leave a review on Spotify

Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Tiff is a co-host of The Fashion Geek Podcast and a respected voice in the fashion industry. With her extensive background in fashion consultancy and advocacy for social justice, Tiff brings a unique perspective to the podcast. She has been a steadfast supporter of revolutionary clothing movements and has firsthand experience working with pioneering brands like Pierre Moss. Her deep understanding of the intersection between fashion and social issues makes her a perfect co-host to discuss the ever-evolving dynamics of fashion in the current socio-political climate.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- How the tailored suit industry has managed to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic with remote fittings and high-profile clientele.

- Why revolutionary clothing, like the voter registration t-shirts by Pierre Moss, is becoming a symbol of social and political engagement.

- How major retailers and fashion consultancies are adapting to the wave of bankruptcies and the shift to virtual shopping and consultation services.

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:17 Meet the Hosts: Reg and Tiff
00:34 New York City Vibes and Personal Updates
03:33 Tech Troubles and Solutions
07:50 Fashion and Social Justice
13:50 Pyer Moss and Social Impact
23:14 Retailers and Changing America
26:36 Fashion and Society: A Provocative Opinion
27:47 The Evolution of American Style: J.Crew, Brooks Brothers, and Polo Ralph Lauren
29:59 Financial Distress in Retail: The Impact of COVID-19 31:00 Social Injustice and Fashion: A Complex Relationship 31:20 Protest Fashion: Revolutionary Clothing
40:41 The Future of Menswear: Tailoring and Business Adaptations
52:14 Century 21: A Beacon of Hope in Retail
55:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

CONNECT WITH TIFF:
📸https://www.instagram.com/tiffinis_insta?igsh=NnVjOTJzOWxiOXZ4

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Reginald Ferguson is a seasoned fashion enthusiast and co-host of The Fashion Geek Podcast. Reginald's extensive background includes working at Dun and Bradstreet and being a regular visitor of iconic New York stores like Century 21, Arnold Constable, and Bendel's. His deep connection with Century 21, having frequented the store daily, especially during lunch breaks, and his vast fashion knowledge, makes him the perfect person to explore the impact of the store's closure and reminisce about its legacy.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- The history and impact of Century 21 on New York City's fashion landscape

- The emotional and financial repercussions of the store's closure for its employees and the local community

- Tips for maintaining productivity and mental well-being during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:21 Meet the Fashion Geeks
00:36 Sunny Day in Brooklyn
02:11 Podcast Dynamics and Guest Shoutouts
03:47 COVID-19 and Daily Routines
05:48 The Art of List Making
08:28 Grocery Shopping Adventures
15:56 Fashion Rules and Linen After Labor Day
18:00 Online Shopping Trends
19:58 Customer Service Woes and Wins
26:18 The Importance of Doing the Right Thing
26:41 Customer Service Experiences
27:02 Dell Customer Service Frustrations
35:20 Century 21 Going Out of Business
36:52 Personal Memories of Century 21
44:30 The Impact of Century 21's Closure
57:38 Hopes for Saving Century 21
59:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell

CONNECT WITH TIFF:
📸https://www.instagram.com/tiffinis_insta?igsh=NnVjOTJzOWxiOXZ4

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Marquise Ellison is the founder of Marquise Rashad, a men's neckwear and accessory company known for its high fashion and higher purpose. With a background in fashion merchandising from Florida State University, and a diverse career spanning roles at Walmart, Bonobos, and New York Fashion Week, Marquise has built a reputation for utilizing fashion to raise awareness for significant health causes such as Crohn's and colitis research and breast cancer advocacy. His dedication to both style and social impact makes him the perfect guest to explore the intersection of fashion and philanthropy.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- How Marquise's fashion business supports health causes beyond just selling bow ties and pocket squares

- The extensive experience gained in retail and fashion management that helped shape Marquise's business approach

- The impact of biases and regionalism in the fashion industry, and ways to pivot toward success despite these challenges

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:22 Meet the Hosts: Reg and Tiff
00:36 Special Guest: Marquise Ellison
02:58 Marquise Rashad: The Brand and Its Mission
07:34 Community Engagement and Social Media
16:09 Marquise's Journey: From Florida to New York
20:12 Early Career and Challenges in New York
27:39 Discussing Regional Bias in Career Opportunities
28:41 Perceptions of Walmart and Retail Bias
32:06 Experiences with High-End Retail Interviews
36:21 Breaking into New York Fashion Week
40:57 Impact of the Pandemic on Fashion Week
43:06 Launching the Buy a Mask, Give a Mask Campaign
51:33 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

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Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here

Tiff is an avid thrift shopper and local business supporter who has a knack for finding hidden gems in thrift stores, like a couture dress for a fraction of its retail price. Her enthusiasm for treasure hunting in thrift stores and her firsthand experiences with the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses make her a valuable guest for today's discussion.

In this episode, you'll learn,

- The thrill of finding great deals and unique pieces in thrift stores

- The significant impact of COVID-19 on small fashion retailers and how they're adapting

- Tips on supporting local businesses and contributing to your community during challenging times

👔 GET MY FREE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DRESS BETTER

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:21 Meet the Hosts: Reg and Tiff
02:03 Pandemic Impact on Fashion and Retail
09:39 Fashion Weeks and Global Impact
12:28 Adapting to the New Normal in Fashion
13:22 Personal Fashion Choices During COVID
18:20 Retail Struggles and Store Closures
26:51 In-Store Shopping Experiences During COVID
30:55 Grocery Shopping Routine
31:29 Clothing and Business During COVID
33:39 Creative Business Adaptations
34:49 Thrift Store Adventures
36:52 Impact of COVID on Small Businesses
40:04 Vintage Shopping Stories
45:43 Supporting Local Businesses
58:02 Concluding Thoughts

CONNECT WITH TIFF:
📸https://www.instagram.com/tiffinis_insta?igsh=NnVjOTJzOWxiOXZ4

CONNECT WITH REG
🌐www.nyfashiongeek.com
📸https://www.instagram.com/newyorkfashiongeek/?hl=en
💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginald-ferguson?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F
🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkfashiongeek

💜Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢Leave a review on Spotify

Full Show Notes, Timestamps, Transcript & Guest Links Here