EP243: More Than an Accessory: The Tie Bar Role in Modern Style ft. Michelle Kohanzo

Today’s episode features Michelle Kohanzo, the President of The Tie Bar, the Chicago based brand known for making quality men’s accessories accessible without compromising style. Michelle shares her journey leading the company, how The Tie Bar has evolved in the modern retail landscape, and what it takes to build a brand that blends timeless style with a direct to consumer approach. We also talk about why a tie isn’t just an accessory it plays a huge role in a wardrobe. The right tie can elevate an entire outfit, while the wrong one can stand out for all the wrong reasons. Michelle shares her perspective on the details that truly make the difference. Whether you’re building a brand, leading a team, or simply interested in how businesses grow, this conversation offers plenty to take away

In this episode, we sit down with Matteo Bellentani, Creative Director and Product Developer at Clarks Originals, the heritage footwear label known for timeless silhouettes and cultural impact.Matteo takes us inside the creative engine of one of Britain’s most iconic brands, sharing how he balances innovation with tradition while honoring the legacy of Clarks. From reimagining classic styles to developing future forward collaborations, he reveals the process behind crafting products that resonate across generations and global subcultures. We explore his journey into design leadership, his philosophy on storytelling through footwear, and how cultural movements from music to street style continue to shape the identity of Clarks Originals. Matteo also opens up about product development challenges, sustainability considerations, and what it takes to keep a heritage brand relevant in today’s fast-moving fashion landscape.Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about culture and craftsmanship, this conversation offers rare insight into the mindset behind one of the world’s most enduring footwear brands.

Five years. Half a decade. A journey we never could have imagined when we first pressed record. In this special anniversary episode, we reflect on everything that has unfolded not just within the podcast but in our personal lives, too. Through life’s highs, challenges, changes, and growth, this space has remained its own world. A constant. A creative sanctuary. A place where passion always outweighed pressure. What makes this milestone even more meaningful is the unwavering support behind the scenes. To my mum, my biggest supporter, and the very first fan of this podcast, thank you for believing in me before anyone else did. And to my dad, who always said, “Menswear is in her blood no one can take it away from her.” Those words have carried me further than you’ll ever know. And to everyone who has listened, supported, shared, and grown with us over these past five years you’ve been part of every step. 🤍 This episode is about gratitude. Growth. Resilience and friendship. And the beautiful reminder that when something is truly part of who you are, it never leaves you. Here’s to five years and to many more to come. 🎙️✨

In a world where luxury is often defined by excess, logos, and exclusivity, House of Tengri offers a radically different vision  one rooted in stewardship, humanity, and the quiet power of nature. In this episode, we explore the story behind the brand and its founder, Nancy Johnston, a  entrepreneur who set out to redefine what “true luxury” really means. After living among nomadic yak herding communities in Mongolia, Nancy witnessed first hand the fragile balance between land, livelihood, and global fashion demand. What she discovered was an overlooked fibre  rare, noble yak fibre and a powerful opportunity to create a luxury model that restores ecosystems, protects cultural heritage, and shares value with the communities at its source. Founded in 2014, House of Tengri connects remote herders to world class craftsmanship in London, producing timeless garments and interiors from traceable, regenerative fibres. But this is more than a fashion story  it’s a blueprint for a new economic mindset. One where transparency replaces exploitation. Where patience replaces speed. And where luxury is measured not by price, but by purpose. Join us as we unpack how Nancy is challenging the industry’s status quo and why the future of luxury may lie not in scarcity, but in responsibility. Because true luxury isn’t about having more. It’s about honoring where it comes from.

In this episode, we sit down with Audie Charles, one of the most influential figures in modern menswear and a true custodian of British tailoring. Having spent decades at the helm of Anderson & Sheppard, Audie has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of one of Savile Row’s most revered houses. Renowned for her impeccable eye and deep understanding of style, she is widely regarded as one of the most respected stylists in the world. We talk about her remarkable journey with the firm, the philosophy behind timeless dressing, and what it really means to dress well beyond trends.

In this episode, we speak with Ritwik Khanna, founder of Rkiev City, about his approach to design, heritage, and restoration. Ritwik takes us through the remarkable journey of redesigning the uniform of Mayo College, one of India’s most prestigious institutions often referred to as the Eton of India. With a history spanning over 100 years, the project demanded deep respect for legacy while adapting to contemporary needs. Beyond uniforms, Ritwik shares his belief in restoring and reworking garments, emphasizing longevity, craftsmanship, and preserving stories through clothing. A conversation about tradition, responsibility, and designing with purpose.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jack and Lewis, the founders of Brighton based vintage clothing store Salvage and Sawdust a name that’s been creating serious buzz in the vintage scene. We talk about how they both got started in the world of vintage fashion, what first sparked their passion for the craft, and how that passion has grown into a thriving business. We dive into the role technology plays in the ever-growing vintage industry, and how it’s shaping the way they buy, sell, search for, and connect with clothing. Jack and Lewis are buzzing about the future not just of their brand, but of vintage as a movement. Beyond buying and selling, they also specialise in restoring garments that have been fully worn but are far from finished. Their ability to breathe new life into clothing that might otherwise end up in landfill is a true talent, rooted in care, skill, and respect for the garment’s story. They also share the journey from running a small store to opening a huge new three floor space, set to open this week, and reflect on how far they’ve come along the way. Jack and Lewis’ enthusiasm for their world and their commitment to changing habits around overconsumption and waste is genuinely inspiring. A must listen for anyone interested in vintage fashion, sustainability, independent retail, and building something meaningful.

Today’s episode is about doing less but doing it better. We’re diving into Arvello, an Australian brand founded by Sam Darvill and Armando Zurzolo, built on intention, craftsmanship, and a rejection of fast fashion culture. Let’s get into it. Arvello didn’t happen overnight. Sam and Armando spent over a year planning, questioning, and refining what they actually wanted to put into the world. And when the brand officially came to life in 2025, it was the result of that patience. During that planning process, they realised something important the fashion industry doesn’t need more clothing. It needs more meaning. They saw how fast fashion had normalised overproduction, short lifespans, and disposable design. Clothes made quickly, worn briefly, and forgotten just as fast. Arvello was created as a response to that cycle. Instead of chasing trends, Sam and Armando focused on restraint. On timeless pieces. On garments designed to be worn slowly, valued deeply, and kept not replaced.For them, Arvello isn’t just about what you wear. It’s about why you wear it. And that philosophy sits at the core of everything the brand represents.

In today's episode, I sit down with Matt Braun, founder of Purple Mountain Observatory, to unpack the origins of the brand and the personal journey behind it. Matt reflects on how his early influences, curiosity, and commitment to function first design shaped the foundation of Purple Mountain Observatory and how outdoor activewear has steadily evolved into a defining pillar of modern menswear. We explore the shift in how men wear today, where performance, durability, and versatility are reserved for the outdoors but integrated into everyday life. Matt shares how focus, discipline, and a long term mindset have guided him through the challenges of building a brand, allowing him to stay grounded while pushing creative and operational boundaries.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Dylan Patel, the creative force behind the Vintage Archive Moncler project. After completing his Master’s in Science at Imperial College London, Dylan pursued a growing passion for exploring vintage outdoor wear particularly pieces rich in history, craftsmanship, and storytelling.What began as a personal challenge soon evolved into an extraordinary journey. Each archive piece Dylan discovered carried its own narrative, inspiring him to travel through the legacy and evolution of technical outerwear. His deep knowledge, dedication, and carefully curated collection caught the attention of the CEO of Moncler, who was immediately impressed by Dylan’s vision and archive.That pivotal moment led to a rare opportunity Dylan was invited to create Moncler Vintage Archive, turning his passion into an officially recognized brand project. This episode explores Dylan’s path from academic success to creative innovation, and how curiosity, storytelling, and persistence can transform a dream into reality.