Questioning Fashion

Once considered bottom of the stylists pile by the upper echelons of fashion, so-called 'celebrity stylists' (sometimes 'red-carpet stylists') are suddenly being given the credit they think they deserve. As Zendaya's renowned stylist Law Roach explains: “There’s been this idea that I’m supposed to be grateful [to have a celebrity client]. No. She’s supposed to be grateful that she’s working with me because I’m changing her life." Why and how are stylists changing their celebrity clients' lives? In this episode, Jo - herself a stylist with a couple of minor red carpets under her belt - explains the inner workings of "image strategies", and breaks down the most interesting of these at this year's Oscars. Ali, meanwhile, shares her joy at the growing trend of "borrowed" vintage for red carpets, Sydney Sweeney's 2004 Jolie gown as a case in point. "I imagine some giant Bell Street in Hollywood." Oh joy. Did you have a favourite look at this year's Oscars?Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auFollow us here:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreettiktok.com/@bellstreetAnd don't forget to get yourself a ticket to our live podcast recording next week, where we interview author and journalist Clare Press of the Wardrobe Crisis podcast!!! $20 tickets available here - see you there!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

In true Questioning Fashion style, Ali and Jo grapple between the joy of cheap and cheerful group dress-ups and the mountains of dumped plastic spangles left in their wake.When Ali finally got her Eras tour ticket, a year after Jo overdressed for Harry Styles, it struck them both that while it isn’t a new phenomena (remember the Bay City Rollers’ tartan kick flares? Yeah, neither do we) — it has stepped up a notch thanks to online communities of mainstream stars...Which we agree is wonderful as a concept.But it's also a little frightening, given the sheer number of Shein sequin minis Ali spotted at one concert.The ultra fast fashion giant is known to add between 2000 and 10,000 new styles to its website EVERY DAY.Don’t even get Jo started on the soggy feather boa aftermath of Harry Styles’s tour. It looked like there’d been a massacre of camp cockerels.The conversational magical mystery tour somehow landed on how the government should fund crafty mums to help everyone else with homemade book week costumes so we don’t buy so many disposable dress-ups.hmmmAs always, they’d love to hear your thoughts on the matter. And as always, they do not judge you either way!Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambaleThanks for reading Questioning Fashion with Ali and Jo ! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Ali and Jo go on an excursion to talk to sustainable fashion designers Gary Bigeni and Sally Jackson at Sally's Join the Dots studio in Marrickville. We discuss their approach to sustainable fashion and specifically their work with the Opera House developing upcycling workshops for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.We apologise for the very "real world" audio on this one! Maybe listen to it through speakers while you're working on something yourself! You'll feel like you're in the studio with us. See Gary's work hereAnd Sally's Bowerbird collection hereEmail us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auSubscribe to our podcast and newsletter here Follow us on Instagram:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetAnd TikTok:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

This week we're talking clothing care and sharing our favourite tips for washing, repairing and storing our clothes - because true sustainable fashion isn't about only buying from ethical brands or going op shopping all the time, it's about wearing the clothes you already own forever.Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

If you don't already know Terrance Williams - a fashion designer and influencer from Dallas, Texas - then boy are you in for a treat.We get to know the man who rose like a phoenix when a post went viral and filled his inbox with hate.We hear how he grew up poor and as the only kid of colour in school, was bullied for his secondhand clothes, began a law degree with ambitions of helping asylum seekers then found his "inner truth" through sustainable fashion.Now he models his gorgeous designs for hundreds of thousands of followers, puts racist and homophobic trolls in their place without even a grain of vitriol, and inspires others to let go of stale binary fashion ideals if that isn't their truth.Find Terrance here and follow him on Instagram and TikTok for some utterly joyful content.And if you'd like to stay in touch with us, subscribe to our monthly Substack here!Or email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreet This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Remember how Downton Abbey used to LOVE doing Christmas Specials? Well, this is ours. We take a deep dive into Downton's costumes, do some weird impressions of McBride and Violet, and discuss how Jo met one of the Downton maids at drama camp in Manchester, England.Ali as always has done some actual research so listen for some fun facts.We also ask each other to come up with a new character to play in the show - and that same question goes out to you guys! Maybe a long-lost cousin of Matt's or an evil new cook who murders Mrs Patmore..??Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambaleCan't wait to be back in 2024 (and don't forget to repeat-watch The Nanny in time for our next FF) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

In our last official episode of the year, we head back to Ali's History Corner and learn all about sequins and sparkle. We talk about the EU's recent glitter ban, the history of sequins and how to style sequins.Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

This week Ali tells Jo all about Oleg Cassini, a costume and fashion designer who dressed Jacqueline Kennedy in the 1960s and led an action-packed life throughout Europe, Hollywood and New York.Oleg Cassini loves to credit himself with... well, basically everything. What's your claim to fame?The interview with Gene Tierney is hereEmail us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Today marks the release of the most FABULOUS new book about vintage and personal style.We were lucky enough to talk to the author of the book, deliciously titled How To Be Fabulous, for this week's episode, about all things vintage, secondhand, personal style and "bowerbird capsule wardrobes". Charlotte Dallison has worn many (fabulous) hats, from owner of a vintage boutique, Chez Charlotte, to journalist, podcaster and now author.She's been on many a style journey too, from 2000s teen to vintage purist pin-up queen to her current "classic bombshell" look, so she knows all about the process and has pearls of wisdom to match. Order Charlotte's book HERE or support your local bookstore - in Ali's case Gleebooks.Charlotte's Instagram account: instagram/charlottedallisonHave an answer to this week's or any of our questions to you?Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We get all fangirly with our latest guest, fashion psychologist Shakaila Forbes Bell, who's absolutely killin' it in the UK with her infinite knowledge on the subject. She's turned what she admits was a dry subject to study (cue snores in the lecture room) to a relatable and fascinating phenomenon that sees her as a regular on panels as well as the average Pom's favourite cosy TV show, This Morning. Ali has read her book twice, and we recommend you all do the same - Big Dress Energy is such an easy read but full of mind-blowing concepts that will help you get better at conscious shopping and developing your own style that transcends trends.We talked about the real explanation of dopamine dressing (it's more than just colour!) and how that compares to Shakaila's own 'wearapy' theory (which you will LOVE, we promise).We got overexcited when she mentioned a course she now runs on fashion psychology, for which we are hoping some generous podcast sponsor might one day foot the bill.Find Shakaila here: instagram.com/shakailaelisewww.instagram.com/fashionispsychologyThis is her book - a FAB Christmas present for yourself or a loved one..But try to buy it at your local book shop - this one is Ali's... And this is Shakaila's course ... (worth the investment if you're a stylist - and think of all the money you will save once you're out of your shopping rut!!)And remember our question for you guys:What is your 'big dress energy' moment? It could have happened already or it could be a fantasy for the future, but it's a moment when what you wear (doesn't have to be a dress of course) makes you feel larger than life. You can answer directly via Spotify or on our podcast Instagram pageOREmail us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We catch up with the delightfully named Gwen Venn of Save the Children to talk about the Love Rack, a super fun and clever initiative that allows the op shop to sell clothes in need of repair to those happy to take them on.As advocates of "better done than perfect" and "lazy sewing" if it means you get more out of your wardrobe and dump less on op shops, Ali and Jo are BIG FANS of this idea, especially as it will help those who make a side hustle from reselling.But what about the rest of us, who can barely sew on a button? That's why Gwen at Save the Children has asked Ali and Jo to host a 'Basics of Hand Sewing' workshop at the Marrickville store this month.As we write, tickets are already sold out, but if you'd like to see more of such events, email the girls so they can convince local councils to throw some money at it.Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auFind Gwen Venn on Instagram @gwen_venn  Our Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Jo and Ali talk about what comes over them while shopping away from home, and why we buy things that might be a bit out of character for us usually. We hear from a few listeners about the strange things they've bought on holidays - tell us yours!Email us: questioningfashionpodcast@slogue.com.auOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Welcome to Season 2!!!!Ali and Jo start off with a BANG, interviewing the awesome Veronica Milsom of Triple J and ABC fame, a year after the release of her ABC podcast Threads.In the lead-up to a very cool online event where Ali and Jo get to help Veronica with her wardrobe woes Live for the Garage Sale Trail Tutorials, they chat with Veronica  about her experience researching, writing and recording the Threads podcast, and discuss the ongoing dilemma of getting the  overconsumption/fast fashion message to the masses. Book your free spot to see the inside of Veronica's wardrobe/watch the girls style her at the Trail Tutorials HEREListen to Veronica's awesome podcast HEREOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/jogambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We love Clueless! And we think you do too, which is why we chose to devote our Season 1 finale (!) to the incredible costuming on this iconic movie. We'd LOVE to hear all of your thoughts!Find us at instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastContact Jo:jogambale@gmail.cominstagram.com/jogambaletiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambaleContact Ali:ali@bell-street.cominstagram.com/bellstreettiktok.com/@bellstreetJo will appear on a panel at the screening of  "Fashion Reimagined" at the Palace Verona Cinema in Paddington on October 12  - tickets hereOur Sip & Style event in Newcastle is on October 15 - tickets hereOur Garage Sale Trail Tutorial will a live online event at 3pm on October 28 - more info hereAli and Chloe will be at the LOVECATS Wedding Expo at Petersham Bowling Club on November 5 - tickets hereOther upcoming events include an Inner West Council online workshop on November 8 and a Recycling Week event at Save The Children Op Shop Marrickville on November 16 (details to come). This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We speak to Ali's friend Simon about his project to wear a different band t-shirt every day until he runs out of t-shirts. We discuss the "rules" around wearing band t-shirts, how we can use clothing to preserve memories and why Simon doesn't own any Hanson t-shirts.Simon's daily t-shirt videos can be found on his instagram story highlights - instagram.com/vaughantobewild/His Spotify playlist is hereIf you're enjoying the podcast, please share it with friends and leave us a review in the Apple Podcasts app. YAY - THANKS FOR THAT!!! Find us on instagram:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

After telling everyone at Footprints Ecofestival to channel their inner child when shopping their own wardrobe, Ali and Jo discuss what that actually means, recalling their own childhood dressing, their children's self-styling and why we lose the capacity to just "play" with our looks, without fear of judgement.For photos of some of the childhood outfits mentioned, and a snap of the girls at Footprints Eco Festival, check out our latest post on Instagram.If the Bell Street Dress Up Night sounds fun for an upcoming occasion, contact Ali ali@bell-street.com for more.If you're enjoying the podcast, please share it with friends and leave us a review in the Apple Podcasts app. YAY - THANKS FOR THAT!!! Our Instagram and TikTok accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/bellstreettiktok.com/@bellstreet This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

Jo and Ali attempt to figure out why people get so fixated on planning the perfect, non-cookie-cutter-wedding, but mostly just end up talking about their own weddings. Maybe that in itself answers the question? Something about humans being innately self-centred and weddings being the ultimate 'look at me' event? We'd love your thoughts.Find us on instagram at @questioningfashionpodcastNote - this episode was actually recorded about a month ago, but we had to reshuffle the publishing order of a few other episodes so this one got put on hold. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We discuss everything from Boomer feminism to lazy sewing and repair hacks from the 'Jamie Oliver of Sewing'. Guests include  regular listener Laurel and an accidental appearance by Ali's mum Robyn. Both help us to unpick the problem that arises from so few being able to mend or adjust their clothes. The book Ali recommends is called Sew it Yourself by Daisy BraidThe YouTube channel is Annika VictoriaOur Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/joannegambale - NOTE INSTAGRAM HAS TAKEN THIS DOWN DUE TO SOME KIND OF SCAM SO PLEASE JUST FOLLOW JO ON THE PODCAST ACCOUNT FOR NOW.instagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

We all have favourite pieces that we've worn over and over. We also all have pieces we love that we don't wear as much as we'd like to. This episode is all about different ways we can elevate our less worn pieces to the status of new favourites - we also happen to be currently obsessed with the Matildas, and try to turn the whole thing into a sports analogy. Enjoy!Contact Ali:ali@bell-street.cominstagram.com/bellstreettiktok.com/@bellstreetContact Jo:jogambale@gmail.cominstagram.com/joannegambaletiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com

After Jo's first foray into red carpet styling, for actress Kate Box at Australia's biggest TV Awards (AKA the Logies), Ali and Jo delve into the most famous Red Carpet event of all; the Oscars.From Grace Kelly in blue silk-satin to Billy Porter in a tux-gown, they pick 11 looks that tell the story of the Oscars fashion evolution, peppered with fun facts and personal faves.Follow @questioningfashionpodcast on Instagram for the visuals, and comment with your own pick of Oscars looks through the decades. Our Instagram accounts:instagram.com/questioningfashionpodcastinstagram.com/joannegambaleinstagram.com/bellstreetOur TikTok accounts:tiktok.com/@bellstreettiktok.com/@slogue_joannegambale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit questioningfashion.substack.com