Episodes

  • In this episode:
    Mary Korlin-Downs — product designer, creative director, and founder of All Things Fashion Tech — shares her journey into the world of fashion tech, her inspirations, and her vision for the future. We dive into the intersection of fashion and technology, emerging career paths, and the role of sustainability and AI in shaping what's next. Mary also emphasizes the importance of building community and staying consistent when growing an audience, offering personal insights and real talk about navigating the fashion tech landscape.

    💻 Explore All Things Fashion Tech:

    Substack: allthingsfashiontech.substack.com

    Website: allthingsfashiontech.com

    Instagram: @allthingsfashiontech

    Follow Mary:

    Instagram: @marykorlindowns

    TikTok: @marykorlindowns

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    Follow @blossom.nite for updates, and we’ll see you at the next Blossom Nite.

    📲 Stay connected:

    @girlintofashion

    @ttbdpod

  • In this engaging conversation, Hanna and Claire explore the intersection of makeup artistry and photography, discussing Hanna's journey from a photographer to a beauty influencer. They delve into the impact of social media, the evolution of trends in the beauty industry, and the role of AI in creative processes. Hanna shares her experiences with viral content and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a fast-paced digital landscape, while also reflecting on the personal growth that comes from embracing change and creativity. In this engaging conversation, Hanna shares her journey from personal struggles to launching her own lipstick line, emphasizing the importance of creativity, community, and authenticity in the beauty industry. The discussion touches on overcoming self-doubt, the significance of finding balance to avoid burnout, and the joy of creating art. Hanna expresses her desire to build a supportive community for beauty creators and highlights the transformative power of makeup as a form of self-expression.Follow them on instagram and tiktok and youtube!

    https://www.instagram.com/not_another_hanna/

    https://www.tiktok.com/@not_another_hanna

    https://www.youtube.com/@NotAnotherHanna

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  • In this episode, Claire chats with Selena Norman to dive deep into the unconventional paths that lead to success in the fashion world. They emphasize the importance of creativity, community, and self-discovery, as Selena shares her journey from industrial design to jewelry making with her brand, Dopl World. She also opens up about the challenges of maintaining originality in a fast-paced, fast-fashion landscape.
    World-building in fashion: The creative process of telling stories through fashion collections and the value of creating timeless, cherished designs, especially in bridal fashion.
    3D printing in jewelry and fashion design: How this innovative technology streamlines production, allows for custom designs, and opens new doors for creativity.
    Balancing creativity and business: The struggle to maintain a sustainable career as an independent designer, dealing with burnout, and the need for developing sustainable practices.  They also explore the importance of personal connections and community support in navigating the chaotic fashion industry, helping designers overcome challenges and thrive. Throughout the episode, Selena reflects on how collaboration and networking are vital in building a successful career in fashion.
     #FashionPodcast #DoplWorld #EmergingDesigners #JewelryDesign #IndustrialDesign #FashionCommunity #CreativeJourney #SustainableFashion #CustomDesign #BridalFashion #3DPrinting #WorldBuilding #FastFashionChallenges #IndependentDesigner #FashionIndustry #FashionCreativity #NetworkingInFashion
    More info on Dopl World:
    Check them out at on instagram @dopl.world
    www.doplworld.com
     
    About Us!
    Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nite
    a fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.
    Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcast
    Follow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwood
    Email: [email protected]
    www.alienwestwood.com

  • Summary
    In this engaging conversation, Riley shares her journey from North Carolina to New York City, detailing her experiences in the modeling industry, the importance of networking, and the evolving role of social media in fashion. She discusses her participation in various fashion weeks, the challenges and triumphs of modeling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring models. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity, personal branding, and the interconnectedness of the fashion community.
    Keywords
    modeling, New York, fashion week, social media, networking, career advice, runway, designers, authenticity, personal branding.
     
    More info on Riely:
    Check them out at on instagram @rileyhundleywoodell
     
    About Us!
    Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nite
    a fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.
    Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcast
    Follow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwood
    email: [email protected]
    www.alienwestwood.com

  • Summary
    In this conversation, Claire and Chris Mena discuss the intricacies of the fashion industry, focusing on Mena's recent Urban Camo show. They explore the challenges and successes of fashion shows, the importance of hair and makeup, and the role of AI in design. Sustainability is highlighted as a core value in Mena's work, alongside the impact of social media on fashion trends. The discussion also touches on the need for emerging designers to navigate the business side of fashion while remaining true to their artistic vision. Mena shares insights on the future of fashion, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and perseverance in the industry.
    Takeaways
    Mena reflects critically on his recent Urban Camo show, identifying both successes and areas for improvement.
    The importance of hair and makeup in enhancing the overall aesthetic of a fashion show is emphasized.
    AI has become a valuable tool in Mena's design process, allowing for innovative and generative designs.
    Sustainability is a core focus for Mena, with efforts to incorporate vintage and deadstock fabrics into his collections.
    Emerging designers must learn the business side of fashion to succeed in a competitive market.
    Social media plays a significant role in shaping fashion trends and influencing consumer behavior.
    Mena discusses the challenges of creating unique designs in a saturated market.
    The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's artistic vision.
    Mena shares his thoughts on the future of fashion, emphasizing the need for innovation and sustainability.
    The discussion concludes with advice for aspiring designers to keep pushing through challenges and remain dedicated to their craft.
    More info on Made by Mena:
    Check them out at on instagram  @_madebymena
    and the website www.madebymena.com
     
    About Us!
    Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nite
    a fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.
    Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcast
    Follow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwood
    email: [email protected]
    www.alienwestwood.com

  • Today we’re getting into the world of sustainable fashion with New York City-based designer Helena Eisenhart. They’ve been running their own brand since 2015, blending creativity with ethical practices to craft standout collections. In this episode, Helena shares their journey from college to becoming a brand owner, how they source sustainable materials, and the challenges of maintaining a small, independent fashion label. Join us as we discuss the importance of community, collaboration, and staying true to your values while navigating the ever-evolving fashion landscape.Starting the Brand: Helena began the fashion brand in 2015, right after graduating college, and transferred to Pratt Institute to gain a more conceptual and artistic background in fashion. Sustainability Practices: they sources materials from places like Fab Scrap, deadstock fabric, and vintage garments, ensuring that everything is made in order to prevent overproduction and waste. Collaboration & Experimentation: Collaborating with artists and experimenting with different techniques and materials lead to unique fashion collections that stand out in the market. Technical Expertise: Helena’s skills in pattern making and draping are essential in creating custom orders for diverse body types. Freelancing for Flexibility: Freelancing provided they with valuable experience and flexibility before fully committing to they brand, allowing they to grow at they own pace. Challenges of Running a Small Brand: Helena emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and the constant need for funding to sustain they business while ensuring ethical practices like fair wages. Community Building: Building a community through social media and in person interactions is crucial for brand growth, with a focus on meaningful connections and collaborations. Creative Reflection: Taking time to reflect and journal is a key part of they creative process, helping they develop strong concepts and ideas for future collections. Expanding the Studio: Growing they studio and working with a regular team enhances creativity and productivity, with plans to incorporate live music and more events to foster a collaborative atmosptheye. Runway Shows for Exposure: Organizing runway shows provides exposure and opportunities for growth, as seen in they upcoming Spring/Summer collection, which will feature new aesthetics and different fabrics. Sustainable Textile Access: Helena highlights the need for better and more affordable sustainable textiles for smaller brands to continue thriving in the industry. Find out more about Helena@helenaeisenhart https://www.helenaeisenhart.com/ About Us!Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nitea fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcastFollow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwoodemail: [email protected]

  • Summary
    Carlos Reyes from Renacio discusses their experience as a designer preparing for New York Fashion Week and the challenges of living outside of New York while showing in the event. They talk about their journey in the fashion industry, their design aesthetic inspired by painter Remedios Varo, and their approach to storytelling through their collections. Carlos also shares their experience on the reality show OMG Fashion and the impact it had on their brand. In this conversation, Renacio discusses their experience in the fashion industry, including their appearance on a reality TV show and their process for getting on the runway. They emphasize the importance of putting yourself out there and not being afraid to take the first step. They also talk about the role of social media in their career and the challenges of balancing creative work with the business side of fashion. Renacio shares their plans for future collections and their upcoming runway show. They offer advice for aspiring designers, encouraging them to trust their own gut and keep pushing forward.
    Keywords
    Carlos Reyes, Renacio, New York Fashion Week, designer, fashion industry, design aesthetic, storytelling, OMG Fashion, fashion industry, reality TV, runway, social media, creative work, business, upcoming collection, runway show, advice for aspiring designers
    Takeaways
    Living in New York makes it easier to connect with the fashion community and build a team for fashion shows.
    Carlos Reyes started their fashion journey by dressing people in Dallas and gradually built their brand, Renacio.
    Design aesthetic is inspired by painter Remedios Varo, with a focus on whimsical, dark, and feminine elements.
    Each collection tells a different story, with the upcoming collection exploring the theme of shame.
    Carlos participated in the reality show OMG Fashion, which provided exposure but did not highlight their brand, Renacio.
    Learning from the experience and are considering going by the name Renacio in the fashion world.
    Favorite moments from the show include winning the mini challenge and interacting with Julia Fox and Law Roach. Put yourself out there and don't be afraid to take the first step
    Social media is important for finding clients and showcasing your work
    Balancing creative work with the business side of fashion can be challenging
    Trust your own gut and believe in your work
    Show your growth and don't be discouraged by initial reactions
    Chapters
    00:00 Living in New York and Showing at Fashion Week06:09 The Journey of Renacio09:04 Design Aesthetic and Storytelling13:32 The Experience on OMG Fashion16:24 The Impact on Brand Recognition19:23 Favorite Moments from the Show22:01 Becoming Best Friends with Julia Fox23:43 Getting on the Runway and Fashion Week24:20 The Challenges of Balancing Creativity and Business25:26 Trusting Your Gut and Believing in Your Work26:45 Showing Your Growth as a Designer27:43 Continuing to Push Forward and Evolve
    Find tickets for Renacio NYFW show in Spet at https://renacio.com/ and on instagram 
    Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nite
    a fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.
    Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcast
    Follow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwood
    contact [email protected]
    www.alienwestwood.com
     
    Please note there were some echos we tried to edit out during recording, your not going crazy technology just failed me that day.

  • In this episode of "Through the Back Door," we sit down with Veronica Campos, a New York City-based model, to talk about her journey and career. Veronica shares how she got started in modeling, what it's like to be a full-time model in New York, and how to navigate the complexities of modeling agencies and social media.
    Veronica discusses the impact social media has on a model's career, explaining how it can shape a model’s public persona and create opportunities to connect with their audience. Through social media, Veronica has embraced her role not only as a model but also as a passionate advocate for the plus-size community.
    We discuss the specific challenges plus-size models face, examining the ever-changing standards of the fashion industry and how these trends impact their careers. Veronica candidly talks about the prevalence of fatphobia and why some brands, which should offer larger sizes, often choose not to.
    This episode offers a unique and heartfelt perspective from Veronica, who is deeply committed to advocating for size inclusivity in the fashion industry. It's a rare opportunity to hear her speak about these important issues on a platform like this podcast. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation with a truly passionate and lovely person.
    Connect with Veronica on Instagram: [@veroocampos](https://www.instagram.com/veroocampos/?hl=en)

  • 🎙️✨ Excited to share  highlights from our latest Through the back door podcast episode featuring @itscamywamy the amazing designer behind @reneenewyork! We chat about her love for fashion, inspired by her family’s sense of style, and how it led her to this exciting career.We also catch up on what life is like after school and how she juggles being a designer by day and a brand owner by night—even squeezing in work during subway rides. Plus, we talk about how she’s networking and marketing her brand. Cam’s drive to create something beautiful and bring her dreams to life is truly inspiring.Check out her work and follow her journey, especially with some fantastic projects coming up for Fashion Week! #FashionPodcast #DesignerSpotlight #reneenewyork #FashionWeek #CreativeJourney #FashionDesigner #NYCStyle #PodcastHighlightshas context menu

  • A new episode of @throughthebackdoorpodcast with the talented designer and artist, Caroline Zimbalist ! 🌟 We talk about her incredible journey from her early days to now, how she showed in fashion week, CFDA application process, having her art in museums, and dressing celebs for major events and more.
    Caroline also talks on her signature bioplastic designs—how she started using this cool material and what she’s doing with it now. Plus, we talk about fashion sustainability, clothing life cycles, social media, and all the exciting things she’s planning next.
    Episode drops on Sunday everywhere you get your podcasts, and you can catch the video on YouTube. 📅🎧🎥 Episode brought to you by @blossom.nite a fashion industry party in NYC.
    #Podcast #Fashion #Art #Sustainability #CarolienZimbalist #BehindTheScenes #nycfashion #nycfashiondesigner what woukd be the title of this podcat

  • We are excited to launch our first podcast episode with our guest, Dureshehwar! We met during our time at FIT, and she’s been on an incredible journey ever since. Currently working as an Assistant Designer for Prabal Gurung, a true master in the world of couture runways.

    Behind-the-scenes experience and the amazing stories she has to share. She’ll take us through the ups and downs of transitioning from school to intern life and finally landing a dream role as an Assistant Designer at a prestigious fashion house. It’s a title that’s notoriously tough to snag in this fiercely competitive industry, making her insights all the more valuable. Join us as we dive deep into Dureshehwar’s journey, learn from her experiences, and gain a unique perspective on what it’s like to navigate the fashion world.

    Instagram

    @dure95

    If you live In NYC and want to come to a Blossom Nite follow us on Instagram.

    @blossom.nite