EP262: Fashion Education: The Reality After Graduation ft Christoph Ritter

Today’s episode features Christoph Ritter, founder of Critter London, who shares his experience of studying fashion, leaving Central Saint Martins, and building his own path within luxury womenswear. Although this podcast has traditionally focused on menswear, this conversation explores a topic that affects the entire fashion industry: the reality of fashion education and what happens after graduation. Christoph and I discuss the financial pressures students face when studying fashion, the rising costs involved in completing a degree, and the reality of graduating with significant debt while trying to establish a career in one of the most competitive industries in the world. The biggest question is not only about the cost of studying fashion it is what support graduates receive once they leave university. How does the education system help students transition into the industry? Are universities providing enough guidance, opportunities and connections to help graduates build sustainable careers? Or is the reality that once the university doors close, each graduate is left to navigate the industry alone to create their own opportunities, build their own networks and find their own place within fashion? This episode is a wider conversation about the future of fashion education, the relationship between institutions and graduates, and whether the current system is truly preparing the next generation of creatives.

Today’s episode is a little different from the one originally planned. Due to ongoing technical issues, I decided at 9:30pm to record a conversation exploring the SS27 menswear collections, from Pitti Uomo and Milan through to Paris.Paris was the highlight for me this season, with inspiring collections from Dries Van Norton, Issey Miyake, Maison Kitsuné, Soshiotsuki, and Taakk showcasing incredible craftsmanship, texture, colour, and creativity.Beyond the collections, this episode explores the wider questions around menswear today: how people find opportunities within the industry, the value of fashion education versus experience, and whether different career paths and backgrounds are truly embraced. I would love to hear your thoughts: Is education important in menswear, or does experience hold greater value? Does the industry create space for people at different stages of their careers, or are some voices being left behind?

What happens when two people with no background in the clothing industry decide to challenge the way it's done?In this episode, we sit down with Drishti and Rashmick, the co-founders of Lafaani, to explore the journey behind a brand built on curiosity, purpose, and the courage to begin without having all the answers. Coming from outside the industry, they didn't see their lack of experience as a limitation. Instead, they saw an opportunity to question the norm, learn from the ground up, and create something that reflected the values they believed in. For them, "why not?" has always been more powerful than "why?" Rather than being discouraged by the challenges ahead, they chose to embrace them, believing that meaningful change comes from those willing to take the first step. Their story is one of saying, Let's go for it, and discovering what's possible through persistence, learning, and a shared vision. At the heart of Lafaani is a deep respect for craftsmanship. Drishti and Rashmick speak about working alongside incredibly talented artisans, not simply as manufacturers, but as creative partners whose knowledge and skills shape every piece they create. Every garment is treated as a journey from the first idea and the sourcing of materials to the careful process of making and the final finished piece. Nothing is rushed; every decision is intentional. Our conversation explores what it means to rethink clothing not just as something we wear, but as something that carries purpose, process, and people within it. We discuss building a business driven by values instead of convention, trusting your instincts even when you're stepping into unfamiliar territory, and why creating something meaningful often begins with the willingness to take a chance. This episode is a reminder that you don't have to come from an industry to make an impact in it. Sometimes, the people who ask different questions are the ones who create new possibilities. Drishti and Rashmick's story is one of optimism, resilience, and proving that if you're willing to learn, stay true to your purpose, and take the leap, you can build something that inspires change one thoughtful piece at a time.

In this episode, I sit down with Vollebak co-founder Nick Tidball for a fascinating conversation about what happens when you stop following the rules of fashion and start designing for the future. From the very beginning, Nick and his brother set out to build a brand unlike anything the menswear industry had ever seen. Instead of chasing seasonal trends, they asked bigger questions: What will humans wear in the future? How can clothing evolve alongside technology, exploration, and human performance? What if a jacket could do far more than simply protect you from the elements? We explore the mindset behind building one of the world's most forward thinking brands, the importance of thinking differently, and why creating something truly original often means ignoring what everyone else is doing. One of the standout moments of our conversation is Vollebak's Sonic Jacket. It's one of the most remarkable developments I've ever seen in menswear a piece that pushes the boundaries of what clothing can be and challenges everything we think a jacket should be. It's unlike anything I've come across and perfectly captures Vollebak's philosophy of designing products that feel decades ahead of their time. This episode is about much more than clothing. It's about curiosity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and having the courage to build something that no one else has even thought to imagine. Whether you're interested in business, design, technology, or the future of human performance, this conversation will leave you questioning where fashion is heading and whether Vollebak has already arrived there.

Inspired by a shared love of travel and timeless design, brothers Chris and Mark founded Far Afield with a vision of creating menswear that tells a story. In this episode, they share how exploring the world shaped the brand, influenced every collection, and helped turn a simple idea into a respected independent menswear label. We discuss entrepreneurship, creativity, and what it's really like building a business as brothers. Chris and Mark also reflect on the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, building strong relationships within your team, and creating a culture built on trust, collaboration, and shared values something they believe has been key to Far Afield's success. This conversation goes beyond fashion. It's about following your passion, embracing inspiration from around the world, and understanding that great businesses are built not only on great ideas, but on great people. Whether you're passionate about fashion, travel, entrepreneurship, or building a brand with purpose, this episode offers an inspiring look behind the scenes of Far Afield and the journey that continues to shape its future.

In this episode, I sit down with James Sleaford, Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director of the French edition of Icon Magazine, for an insightful conversation about the ever evolving world of men's fashion media. James shares his journey into publishing, how he built his career within the magazine industry, and the realities of leading one of menswear's most respected titles. We discuss how men's magazines have changed over the years, from traditional print publications to multi platform brands operating in an increasingly digital first landscape. We also explore how fashion magazines discover and champion emerging menswear designers and brands, and the important role editors play in shaping conversations around style, culture, and creativity. As the pace of digital media continues to accelerate, James offers his perspective on the future of print and whether physical magazines still hold value in today's market. The conversation also delves into the rise of artificial intelligence and its growing impact on publishing, editorial workflows, content creation, and the wider magazine industry. From craftsmanship and storytelling to technology and innovation, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of modern fashion journalism. Whether you're interested in menswear, media, publishing, or the future of creative industries, this is an episode packed with valuable insights from one of the industry's leading voices.

This episode is a personal tribute to Nigel Cabourn, one of the true legends of British menswear. I was fortunate enough to meet Nigel at a vintage fair 2023, and it remains one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Like so many others, I had admired his work, his passion for vintage clothing, and the influence he had on menswear for decades. Meeting him only deepened that admiration. What struck me most was how approachable and genuine he was. There were no gatekeepers, no PR teams, no production schedules to navigate just a conversation between two people who shared a genuine love for menswear and vintage clothing. Nigel made everything feel effortless, welcoming, and real. In an industry that can sometimes feel distant or exclusive, Nigel embodied something different. He was generous with his time, open with his knowledge, and carried himself with humility that matched his status as one of the greats.This episode is my way of saying thank you. Thank you for the inspiration, the kindness, and the memories. The brief time I spent with Nigel left a lasting impression, and those memories will stay with me for the rest of my life. A designer, a storyteller, a pioneer, and above all, a gentleman. Nigel Cabourn's legacy will continue to live on through his work and through the countless people he inspired along the way. Rest in peace, Nigel, and thank you .

In today's episode, I'm joined by Alan Taylor, founder of Bad Arm Baseball, for an honest conversation about building a menswear brand from the ground up. We discuss how menswear has evolved over the years, the changing landscape of fashion, and why fashion education may need to adapt to better prepare the next generation. Alan shares his journey into the industry, including the challenges of entering a world he knew little about and learning through experience along the way. We also explore the reality of starting your own brand. While entrepreneurship can seem exciting from the outside, we talk openly about the financial pressures, uncertainty, and fears that come with taking that leap. From worrying about finding a job to creating your own opportunities, Alan reflects on the resilience and mindset needed to navigate the ups and downs of building a business. It's a conversation about creativity, risk taking, personal growth, and what it truly takes to turn an idea into a brand. Whether you're interested in fashion, entrepreneurship, or pursuing your own path, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

In this episode, we sit down with Katie Fyfe, co-founder of Dad & Dolly, to share the deeply personal story behind the menswear brand she created alongside her father, John. When John began showing early signs of dementia, Katie found herself searching for a way to spend meaningful time with him while preserving the memories, stories, and family traditions that had shaped their relationship. Drawing on John's lifelong appreciation for classic menswear, the pair embarked on a journey that would become Dad & Dolly a brand built on heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring bond between a father and daughter. Katie reflects on how the business grew from a deeply personal experience into a brand with a purpose. She shares the emotional realities of navigating a parent's changing health, the joy of creating something together, and the importance of holding on to the small details that make our loved ones unique from treasured memories to the familiar phrases and sayings that become part of a family's story. We also explore the world of menswear, entrepreneurship, and what it means to build a brand with authenticity at its heart. Katie discusses the lessons she learned along the way, the challenges of turning an idea into a business, and how Dad & Dolly has become a celebration of both timeless style and meaningful connection. This is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about family, resilience, legacy, and the power of creating something beautiful in the face of life's unexpected challenges.

This week, we sit down with menswear designer George W Alvin for an honest conversation about fashion, identity, creativity, and mental health within the industry. Having previously worked with Reiss and alongside leading menswear designers, George reflects on his journey through the fashion world  from the pressures of established brands to finding the courage to start again on his own terms. We discuss why research and understanding your vision are essential when building a brand, and how experience, setbacks, and self-belief all shape the creative process. George opens up about discovering contentment through creating independently and what it means to redefine success beyond industry expectations. The conversation also explores the darker realities of toxic work environments in fashion  how exhaustion, loss of confidence, pressure, and unhealthy cultures can lead to depression, burnout, and long-term mental health struggles. Together, we ask an important question: how can the industry evolve to protect creativity without breaking the people behind it?   A raw, thoughtful, and deeply honest episode about resilience, reinvention, and changing the culture of fashion from within.