
Awards season is heating up, with perfectly styled celebrities fielding the classic red carpet question: “What are you wearing?” But let’s skip that and dive into something more engaging.
Nick Cave, once the brooding enigma of music, has transformed into an open book. Through his Red Hand Files newsletter, he candidly addresses everything from the profound to the absurd. His wit and eloquence make him a natural fit for podcasts, and he’s a delight on designer Bella Freud’s Fashion Neurosis (Apple, Spotify). Cave understands the power of image—just as Johnny Cash embraced all-black outfits, Cave has long been defined by his jet-black hair, tailored suits, and signature big-collared shirts. Though his marriage to fashion model/designer Susie Cave may have reinforced his sartorial choices, he’s always had a distinct style. His humorous take on why ankle boots are pure evil, mixed with discussions on creativity and grief, makes for compelling listening.
Freud—great-granddaughter of Sigmund and daughter of Lucian—shines in this weekly podcast where celebrities (including Kate Moss, Eric Cantona, Zadie Smith, Kim Gordon, Daphne Guinness, and JW Anderson) quite literally lie on the couch (watch on YouTube) to dissect their wardrobes and personal style.
Humans have been dressing themselves since fig leaves went out of fashion, which is why Dressed: The History of Fashion (Apple, Audible, Spotify) remains a must-listen after seven years. Fashion historians April Calahan and Cassidy Zachary explore a different theme each episode, balancing deep research with engaging storytelling. Their discussions span everything from denim and Native American clothing to eyeliner, Diana Vreeland, workwear, and the Met Gala. Highlights include costume designer Sandy Powell and a fascinating dive into avant-garde French-Ukrainian textile artist Sonia Delaunay, whose bold shapes and colors continue to influence fashion and interior design today.
Meanwhile, Hello Girls (Apple, Spotify) nods to Wonderbra’s legendary “Hello Boys” ad campaign while diving into the history of women’s underwear. British Vogue contributor Kate Finnigan and fellow fashion journalist Emily Cronin explore the evolution of lingerie, tracing everything from thongs to “Bridget Jones pants” and their impact on pop culture. Their analysis of the corset is especially compelling, questioning whether it’s a tool of oppression, empowerment, or something more complex.
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