On this episode of Never Work a Day, we sit down with Vaughn Terry Jelks — a fashion designer, bespoke tailor, and cultural architect whose roots in Gary, Indiana shaped a lifelong belief that style is identity, dignity, and storytelling. From discovering his craft at home to training at FIDM and breaking into the industry under legendary costumer Bill Whitten, Vaughn went on to design for Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince, and countless music icons. His work helped define the Purple Rain era, evolved through major fashion houses like Oscar de la Renta and J. Mendel, and was recently honored in The Met’s Superfine: Tailoring Black Style exhibition. Today, he continues building his legacy through his couture atelier, new collaborations with Paisley Park, and the upcoming Purple Rain stage musical.

More about Vaughn:

www.vaughnterryjelks.com

@vaughnterryjelks

@vaughnterry_official

Mentioned:

Earth, Wind, & Fire 

Prince

Superfine: Tailoring Black Style

Purple Rain - Prince

Street Unicorns by Robbie Quinn

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