EP257: Editor-in-Chief, of French Icon Magazine ft. James Sleaford

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.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Colin Behr, founder of Wardrobe Theory Project, for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of menswear and what it really means to build a project with identity in today’s fashion landscape. We discuss how menswear has evolved over the last decade, the growing influence of social media and creators, and why so many brands and campaigns can begin to feel visually and culturally repetitive. Colin shares his perspective on craftsmanship, design philosophy, and the balance between creating timeless pieces while still operating within a fast moving industry shaped by trends, image, and online culture.Throughout the conversation, we explore the relationship between personal style and branding, the importance of authenticity in modern menswear, and how independent projects can carve out a genuine point of view in an increasingly crowded market. Colin also reflects on the development of Wardrobe Theory Project, creating products with intention, and why quality, storytelling, and consistency matter more than ever.This episode is a thoughtful discussion on style, creativity, mindfulness, hint of psychology and the changing identity of menswear today.

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Cho, co-founder of The Armoury, to talk about his journey into the world of menswear and the experiences that shaped his perspective on style, craftsmanship, and culture.Mark shares how his early interest in clothing evolved into a deeper appreciation for tailoring and classic menswear, as well as how his relationship with Drake's first began. We also explore the origins of The Armoury from its founding philosophy to its role in helping redefine modern menswear for a new generation. Along the way, the conversation touches on why menswear matters beyond clothing itself: the connection between personal style, identity, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you’re deeply invested in tailoring or simply curious about how great brands and lasting taste are built, this episode offers an insightful look into one of the industry’s most respected voices.

In Part 2 of our conversation with James Shaw founder of Albam and now building Peace we go deeper into what it really feels like to run a brand that’s so closely tied to your identity. James speaks candidly about the emotional weight behind menswear, from the pride of creating something meaningful to the pressure of sustaining it over time. We unpack what it means to step back into the industry for a second chapter, and the mindset shift required to build again this time with experience, perspective, and a clearer sense of purpose. We also explore the realities of navigating a changing fashion landscape, how lessons from Albam have shaped his approach to Peace, and the delicate balance between honoring what came before while not being defined by it. There’s a strong thread of self-reflection throughout on creativity, resilience, and the vulnerability that comes with putting your name behind something new. This episode is an honest look at reinvention, the emotional ties that bind founders to their work, and the quiet determination it takes to begin again in an industry that never stands still.

In this episode, we sit down with William Kroll, founder of Tender Co., to explore how a truly independent brand is built and why it matters. William walks us through the early days of Tender Co., from its unconventional beginnings to the hands-on process that defines the brand today. Rooted in experimentation and craftsmanship, Tender Co. was never about fitting into the traditional fashion system, but about creating something slower, more considered, and deeply personal. Beyond the origin story, we dive into what the brand stands for. For William, Tender Co. reflects the real reasons for changing challenging mass production, rethinking how things are made, and placing value back on process, material, and intention. It’s a perspective that goes against the grain, but one that feels increasingly relevant.We also talk about the realities of starting your own brand: navigating uncertainty, staying committed to your vision, and building something meaningful in a crowded and fast-moving industry. This episode is a thoughtful look at creativity, independence, and the mindset required to create work that lasts both in product and principle.

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Nourmand, founder and editor-in-chief of Reel Art Press, and a leading figure in visual culture publishing. With a background in vintage movie posters, Nourmand has spent decades shaping how we experience film, music, photography, and fashion through books. He discusses the vision behind Reel Art Press and the stories behind standout titles such as Black Ivy, a powerful exploration of Black style and its influence on fashion and identity, alongside works like 100 Movie Posters that celebrate the artistry of cinema.Throughout the conversation, Tony reflects on uncovering rare archives, collaborating with photographers and creatives, and publishing books that document everything from Hollywood’s golden age to street style, subcultures, and iconic fashion movements. His work highlights how fashion intersects with music, film, and social history, capturing moments that define cultural change.This episode offers a compelling look at the art of publishing and the enduring power of visual storytelling across film, fashion, and beyond.