EP189: Building A Brand With Purpose ft Ouigi Theodore of "The Brooklyn Circus"

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Marie Remy, founder of The French Workwear Company, as she takes us through her fascinating journey from a career in music to becoming a leading authority on vintage French workwear. Marie shares how she began curating one of a kind pieces that each carry their own unique history and story. She also delves into the importance of vintage French workwear and how its blend of history and graphics has shaped the landscape of modern menswear. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation about the world of vintage menswear and its lasting influence on today’s style.

Streetwear is evolving, and today's episode delves into how it looks in the modern world. Join Ankit Duggal founder of Back Alley Bodega, as we discuss the intersection of creativity, craftsmanship, and authenticity in streetwear. Ankit takes us behind the scenes of his label, sharing the inspiration and the story behind blending traditional fabrics with street culture. We also explore the future of streetwear and how craftsmanship plays a key role in shaping its direction. Tune in to hear Ankit’s vision for where streetwear is headed and why his brand is paving the way for a new era in streetwear.

We’ve reached the incredible four-year milestone at menSwear by a Woman podcast, and I just want to take a moment to thank each of you for your unwavering support. This journey has been one of the most rewarding and healing experiences of my career in menSwear, and I’m so grateful for all of you who’ve been along for the ride. In this special episode, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the podcast! What do you enjoy about it? What would you like to hear more of when it comes to menswear? Which episode has been your favorite so far? Your feedback is what keeps this podcast thriving, and I want to continue creating content that resonates with all of you. We also have something new for you a poll! It’s a new addition for us, and we’d love for you to participate. Your input will help shape the future of the podcast as we continue to grow together. Thank you once again for all the amazing reviews, direct messages, and emails. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.

In today's episode, we sit down with James Munro, the co-founder of Butch Tailors International, or BTI for short. James takes us through the journey of building BTI and the vision behind their success in the tailoring industry. Coming from a background in finance, James realized he wanted a career change, and after getting a suit made, he discovered just how much tailoring meant to him. Together with his co-founder Robin, they set out to make tailoring more accessible, offering everything business owners need under one roof. Join me for this insightful conversation about how James and Robin are transforming the tailoring industry.

In today's episode, we sit down with Gordon Ritchie, CEO of Crombie, one of the oldest and most iconic brands in the fashion world. Gordon takes us on a journey through Crombie's 220+ years of heritage, sharing the fascinating history behind the brand and how it continues to evolve. We dive into how Crombie blends its rich history with the latest menswear designs, staying relevant while honoring its authentic roots. Gordon reflects on the unique story and quality that have made Crombie so special, offering insight into how the brand draws inspiration from its legacy to create timeless pieces that resonate with today's discerning customer. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about heritage, craftsmanship, and the future of men's fashion.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Mohsin Ali, a talented menswear designer, to delve into his creative journey. We explore his experiences, challenges, and the evolution of his work as a creative lead. Mohsin shares his insights on the fashion industry, discussing his design philosophy, sources of inspiration, and the impact of his unique vision on menswear. We also dive into the challenges of gaining recognition in an industry that demands so much, and explore the role culture and race play in shaping opportunities. What does the industry prioritize if it’s not creativity? Tune in for an inspiring and candid conversation about creativity, style, and the realities of working in fashion.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Ouigi Theodore, the founder of The Brooklyn Circus. Ouigi shares the story behind building the iconic brand, his journey through the world of fashion, and how The Brooklyn Circus became a cultural mainstay. We dive deep into his creative vision, the evolution of the brand, and the values that drive its success. Whether you're a fan of streetwear, entrepreneurship, or simply inspired by impactful stories, this episode is packed with insights that you won't want to miss!

In this episode, we sit down with Naushad Ali, a visionary designer based in the scenic and culturally rich city of Pondicherry, India. Naushad blends the elegance of French influence with the vibrant spirit of Tamil culture, creating stunning, one-of-a-kind designs that are truly inspirational. With a deep connection to local artisans, he brings their exceptional craftsmanship to life, while preserving their traditions and elevating them in the world of design. Tune in to hear Naushad’s journey, his creative process, and the magic that happens when two cultures collide in the world of design.

In this episode, we dive into the journey of Batch London Suits and the visionary behind the brand, Samuel Manatle. From a dream of creating high-quality, custom-made suits that blend luxury with accessibility, to overcoming early challenges in a competitive industry, Samuel’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and passion for fashion. Join us as we explore how Batch London Suits carved its own path, revolutionizing the tailoring experience, and learn about the obstacles Samuel faced along the way to build a brand that’s changing the way men approach their wardrobe. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a fashion enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on building a successful brand from the ground up, staying true to your vision, and adapting to a constantly evolving industry.

Meanforme Shoes by Steve Tuite offer a fresh and innovative take on footwear, blending cutting-edge design with exceptional comfort .Steve Tuite, known for his keen eye for both fashion and function, has crafted a line that stands out in both style and performance. The shoes feature sleek, modern designs that cater to a wide variety of tastes, making them versatile enough for both casual and more formal settings. Comfort is a key focus in the Meanforme collection. The shoes are made with high-quality materials that provide a perfect balance of support and flexibility. Overall, Meanforme Shoes by Steve Tuite have carved a strong niche in the market, delivering a unique mix of style, comfort, and durability. Join me for an episode where we dive into the power of determination and the instinctive drive behind design and creation. You can find Meanforme here www.meanforme.com