Through The Back Door

In this episode:Mary Korlin-Downs — product designer, creative director, and founder of All Things Fashion Tech — shares her journey into the world of fashion tech, her inspirations, and her vision for the future. We dive into the intersection of fashion and technology, emerging career paths, and the role of sustainability and AI in shaping what's next. Mary also emphasizes the importance of building community and staying consistent when growing an audience, offering personal insights and real talk about navigating the fashion tech landscape.💻 Explore All Things Fashion Tech:Substack: allthingsfashiontech.substack.comWebsite: allthingsfashiontech.comInstagram: @allthingsfashiontechFollow Mary:Instagram: @marykorlindownsTikTok: @marykorlindowns🎧 Love the episode?Don’t forget to follow and share with a friend who’s building their own path in fashion.Through the Back Door is an extension of Blossom Nite — our real-life space for connecting, collaborating, and celebrating the creatives shaping the future.We’re continuing the conversation over on Substack — subscribe to Working in Fashion for behind-the-scenes insights, fashion industry deep dives, and stories from the people pushing fashion forward.Follow @blossom.nite for updates, and we’ll see you at the next Blossom Nite.📲 Stay connected:@girlintofashion@ttbdpod

I spoke with Molly Rooyakkers (@style.analytics) about how trends can sometimes feel huge online—but don’t always show up in real life. We got into the nuance of interpreting digital trend cycles and how sometimes what looks like a viral trend is really just a curated moment that doesn’t break through beyond the screen.We also talked about sustainability—how her platform walks the line between showing trends people are drawn to (often through fast fashion) while still encouraging mindful consumption. Molly emphasizes using what you already have, repurposing existing wardrobes, and building a personal style narrative instead of constantly chasing the next new thing.What really stood out to me was how she translates raw data into thoughtful storytelling. Whether it’s recession-core theories like “the big bag” making a return or why skinny jeans come back around, she’s not just presenting numbers—she’s giving them context. That’s the real art of Style Analytics: turning charts and numbers into culturally relevant, useful insight for people who just need a little inspiration.This episode also gets real about content creation. We talked about the balance of working a 9–5 while building an online presence, the creative burnout that comes with constant production, and the tension between monetizing a platform and keeping it passion-driven. Molly’s in a space a lot of creators can relate to—loving her current career while still wanting to explore the possibilities of what her online voice can become.Follow Molly Rooyakkers / Style Analytics: Instagram: @style.analytics Substack: styleanalytics.substack.comFind the host Claire Vastola and the podcast online:Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and other streaming platforms.Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@girlintofashion⁠For fashion networking, follow ⁠@workinginfashion⁠Read more on Substack: ⁠https://workinginfashion.substack.com/⁠Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode. More fashion deep dives coming soon.

In this episode of Through the Back Door, I sit down with stylist Mo Johnson, a creative force working behind the scenes on runway collections and brand projects.Mo shares what it actually takes to bring a runway show together. From early fittings and concept development to the fast paced energy backstage before a show begins, we talk about the creative and logistical work that goes into building a runway moment.We also discuss Mo’s creative influences, her mentorship with designer Jane Wade, and her work styling for Andrew Curwen. Along the way we explore how personal style evolves through experimentation, the influence of punk and vintage fashion, and how creatives learn to trust their intuition while navigating an industry that constantly demands reinvention.This conversation is a reminder that fashion is not just clothing. It is storytelling, collaboration, and the many unseen decisions that shape what we eventually see on the runway.Topics: runway styling, fashion week backstage, Andrew Curwen runway, fashion stylist interview, runway show preparation, fashion week production, emerging designers, fashion creative process.Mo JohnsonNY / LA stylist and creative directorInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/lilbbmomo/Mentions:Andrew Curwen Official Websitehttps://www.andrewcurwen.com/Jane Wade Designerhttps://janewade.com/American Duchess Shoeshttps://www.americanduchess.com/Sophia Morin Corsetry and accessories collaboratorhttps://www.instagram.com/sofiajmorin/F10 Casting Model casting serviceshttps://www.f10casting.com/Watch the full episode on YouTubeListen on Spotify and all major platformsHostClaire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.com

In this episode, I’m talking through a rebrand—both creatively and mentally.I share why I’m shifting some episodes away from video and back into audio, and how that change feels more aligned with where Girl Into Fashion is heading. I also reflect on this past New York Fashion Week and why it felt like a real up-level for me: attending shows I genuinely admired, being invited by PR teams for the first time, and experiencing fashion week from a place that felt earned rather than aspirational.This episode is less about recap and more about perspective—what changed, what clicked, and how mindset plays a bigger role than we like to admit. A check-in, a reset, and a quiet marker of growth.

In the Details: Andrew Curwen’s AW26 CollectionIn this episode, we get an up-close look at Andrew Curwen’s collection beyond the runway and into the details that often go unnoticed. We talk construction, garment engineering, and the small decisions that quietly define great design: from salt-spray finishes and bodice shaping to lining construction, corset boning, and how to make something look beautifully worn without losing integrity.What stood out most was Andrew’s depth of thought and attention to detail. Every piece felt intentional — not just in how it looked, but in how it was built, how it moves, and how it lives on the body. This conversation was a reminder that real craft lives in the details, and that wearability and artistry don’t have to be at odds.I genuinely loved being at this show and experiencing the collection in person. I’m incredibly grateful to have had a small window into Andrew Curwen’s world and process — it’s the kind of work and level of care that I truly aspire to.🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTubeAndrew CurwenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewcurwenWebsite: https://www.andrewcurwen.comClaire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.comWatch & ListenFollow the DesignerFollow the HostFashion Networking & Resources

This episode is a little unhinged in the best way.Claire sits down with Laura Stemmer (single mom of two, Manhattan-based, nightlife/bar owner energy, fashion background, zero fear) for a conversation that starts with chihuahuas being… chihuahuas… and ends with actual life advice that hits way harder than it should.We get into:how Laura went from Parsons fashion design → nightlife survival mode → running the roomwhy everyone should work service at least once (or you’re not real)the power dynamics of bartending, the $100 tip effect, and why “no” is weirdly profitablelist-only, no-photos NYC nightlife lore + protecting celebrity regularsbecoming a mom, still dressing like a menace, and your kids still rating you as “the coolest”mindset shifts: there are no rules, failing is learning, consistency = trust, and “hot” is a state of mindfashion talk: 90s mistress, vintage archives, lingerie-as-going-out, fur discourse, and why basics can still be cunty if your aura is rightIt’s the kind of episode that makes you want to go do something reckless (in a productive way), text your bartender friend, and buy a turtleneck + Louboutin boot combo immediately.Laura StemmerInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/laurastemmer/?hl=en⁠Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTubeFollow the host, Claire VastolaInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion⁠Fashion networking & resourcesInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashion⁠Substack: ⁠https://workinginfashion.substack.com⁠Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.GUESTLISTEN + WATCHFOLLOW + RESOURCES

CONSISTENCY IS THE JOBBUILDING A FASHION CAREER WITHOUT A ROADMAPIn this solo episode of Through the Back Door, I talk about what consistency actually looks like when you’re building a non-traditional fashion career.After a week of being sick, exhausted, and close to skipping this recording altogether, I reflect on why showing up anyway matters, especially when you’re working inside the fashion industry while building your own brand on the side. From meeting followers who feel shut out of fashion, to navigating visibility, self-belief, and building something without permission, this episode is an honest look at the unglamorous part of building a career.If you’re balancing a fashion job with content creation, designing your own path, or building in the dark before anyone notices, this episode is for you.Consistency isn’t about motivation. It’s about keeping promises to yourself.Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTubeFollow the host, Claire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashionFashion networking & resourcesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.comSubscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

In the first-ever solo episode of Through the Back Door, we talk ambition — what it really looks like, why it gets labeled as “cringe,” and why it’s the real engine behind success in the fashion industry.We are celebrating episode number 20!I reflect on my week in New York fashion, from attending the Chanel watch party to noticing how fashion culture is becoming more community-driven, creator-led, and accessible. From there, I connect pop culture, history, and real life — pulling inspiration from The Gilded Age, the rise of fashion content creators, and the relentless networking that helped figures like Kim Kardashian long before their success felt inevitable.This episode is about owning what you want without apology, especially in fashion, where nothing is handed to you. We talk about taking up space before you’re invited, legitimizing yourself when no one gives you permission, and understanding that success is often engineered, not accidental.I wrap with a weekly inspiration list — what I’m reading, wearing, and loving — plus a quick update on what’s coming next for the podcast.If you’re a designer, creator, stylist, or anyone building something from the ground up, this episode is for you.Links & MentionsBreaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr Joe Dispenzahttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1401938094Mary & Shelly – Guitar Strap Baghttps://maryandshelly.comMiista Bootshttps://www.miista.comSummer Fridays – Lip Butter Balmhttps://summerfridays.comSummer Fridays – Sheer Skin Tinthttps://summerfridays.com🎧 Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTubeFollow the host, Claire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashionFashion networking & resourcesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.comSubscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

In this episode of Through the Back Door, Claire sits down with Jessie Collier, founder of Working Women Agency, to talk about personal branding, mindset shifts, and embracing nonlinear career paths in the creative world. Jessie shares how she turned confusion around traditional career advice into a mission-driven brand that helps women own their unique journeys. Together, they unpack the power of LinkedIn, the importance of soft skills, and how visibility and authenticity can open unexpected doors. The conversation dives into navigating pivots, using AI to scale creative work, and building a career that truly aligns with your values.Connect with Working Women Agency:Instagram: @workingwomenagencyFollow Jessie: @jessiecollierListen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTubeFollow host Claire Vastola: @girlintofashionFor fashion networking: @workinginfashionRead more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.comSubscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

this episode, Claire sits down once again with model Riley Woodell to talk about what it really takes to build a career in fashion in 2025. Riley is one of those rare people we get to watch evolve in real time — blending modeling, social media, and genuine support for emerging designers in a way that feels transparent and refreshing.We talk about her experience at Paris Fashion Week this September — a pivotal moment in her career that showed how different the Paris scene is from New York. In Paris, you need representation; in New York, grit and showing up can still open doors.Riley also shares what it means to grow with a brand, describing how working with labels like Jane Wade feels like being part of a creative family — the same people, the same energy, season after season. We get into the behind-the-scenes realities of modeling, how she balances authenticity with opportunity, and her advice for anyone trying to make it in fashion today.🎧 Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify + all major platforms👀 Watch the full episode on YouTube📡 Follow host Claire Vastola: @girlintofashion📬 For fashion networking: @workinginfashion📝 Read more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com💫 Follow guest Riley Woodell: @rileyhundleywoodell💌 Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

On this episode of Through the Back Door, I sit down with Nimay Ndolo — content creator, influencer, and all-around creative force — for a conversation that goes everywhere: fashion, social media, politics, spirituality, and even a little woo-woo. ✨ Nimay shares her unique perspective as a creator navigating today’s cultural landscape, and together we explore how style, identity, and expression collide with the digital world. It’s insightful, playful, and full of those unexpected turns that make the best conversations.Follow Nimay: @nimayndoeauxListen on Spotify + all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTube Follow host: @girlintofashionFor fashion networking: @workinginfashionRead more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com💌 Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

What if one of the coolest fashion stores in NYC was built by walking up to strangers on the street and asking, “Where’d you get that fit?”In this episode of Through the Back Door, Claire sits down with Sophia Boli, founder of Retail Pharmacy — a cult-favorite boutique in the Lower East Side that’s become a hub for underground fashion and emerging designers. From chasing down fits on the street to curating one of the coolest stores in NYC, Sophia shares how personal taste, community, and creative grit shaped every step of her journey.They talk about how the post-COVID era gave space for real artistic expression, the role of Dime Square in shaping a new downtown aesthetic, and what it actually takes to run a store, day in and day out.This conversation is funny, sharp, and full of fashion deep cuts — a must-listen for anyone building something real in NYC or chasing creative freedom.Key Takeaways:This episode dives into how self-image is shaped by our digital presence, and how Sophia turned a pop-up into a lasting retail space by staying rooted in community and personal taste. We talk about the evolution of Dime Square as a cultural force, the financial and emotional realities of running a fashion business in NYC, and how Fashion Week has shifted into a more accessible yet oversaturated space. Sophia shares why storytelling matters more than ever in a crowded industry, how authenticity cuts through the noise, and why building a career in fashion is less about virality and more about consistency, connection, and grit.Chapters:00:00:00 Navigating Self-Image and Media Perception00:02:51 Sophia's Journey into Fashion00:05:33 Influences and Inspirations in Fashion00:08:40 The Birth of Retail Pharmacy00:11:10 Building a Brand Identity00:13:58 The Aesthetic of Retail Pharmacy00:16:45 Curating Unique Fashion Pieces00:19:49 The Challenges of Running a Store00:22:41 The Reality of Retail Success00:25:34 Balancing Work and Personal Life00:28:31 Seasonal Challenges in Retail00:30:10 The Evolution of Dime Square00:37:53 Post-COVID Fashion Trends00:44:57 Fashion Week Dynamics00:58:33 The Future of Fashion Shows00:59:18 Fashion Week Aspirations01:00:18 Breaking into the Fashion Industry01:03:40 Experiences at Paris Fashion Week01:05:37 Future Plans and Community Engagement01:14:10 Advice for Aspiring Fashion EntrepreneursFollow Sophia:Instagram: @retailpharmacy_🎧 Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify + all major platforms👀 Watch the full episode on YouTube📡 Follow host Claire Vastola: @girlintofashion📬 For fashion networking: @workinginfashion📝 Read more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com💌 Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

If you’re into fashion on social media, there’s no doubt you’ve come across @notsoquietluxury either it is the content, accent or the topics. I always find myself coming back for Nikesh’s pov becuase he isnt always pointing out the obvious—the kind of stuff you don’t see from a lot of other fashion commentators. I stumbled across NotSoQuietLuxury a few fashion weeks ago, and ever since, I’ve been following his content and knew I had to have him on the podcast.I’m always curious how people get into the things they love in fashion—how they learn and come to really know it. To my surprise, this isn’t even Nik’s main job. He’s actually a pharmacist in real life, which I think adds to the sincerity of his fashion commentary and criticism—because he isn’t “owned” by any brands.We talk about fashion’s intersection with social media, influencers, and how his content has gotten him into some of the hardest-to-access spaces. But it’s not always greener on the other side. I feel like having a point of view like Nik’s in the fashion world is honestly rare and lucky.He’s been called overly critical—but in a world where it feels like everyone is a yes-man for a brand deal, we need more people like Nik. People who can speak thoughtfully and clearly about what’s really going on in fashion—who actually provoke conversation. Because isn’t that why we came to social media in the first place?—Follow Nikesh: @notsoquietluxuryListen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and other streaming platformsFollow the host, Claire Vastola: @girlintofashionFor fashion networking: @workinginfashionRead more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.comSubscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode. More fashion deep dives coming soon.

In this episode, Claire talks with Rebecca-Jo about her journey through the fashion world—from modeling in Asia to becoming a content creator known for her bold, unfiltered take on style. Rebecca shares how she broke into modeling in the early aughts, a completely different world from today. She lived in model houses, traveled to places like China with nothing but a flip phone, and had to quickly learn how to navigate intense and often isolating situations. Working in Asia opened up new opportunities and gave her cultural insight, but also revealed the limitations of the industry—especially when trying to move from high fashion to commercial work. The pandemic hit hard, forcing her to adapt and find new ways to express herself creatively, like self-photography and online content. Through it all, she embraced her identity as an “unhinged fashion girly,” using social media to spotlight sustainable fashion, Canadian designers, and the emotional side of style. Claire and Rebecca-Jo also dive into the differences between fashion and shopping influencers, the power of authenticity, and the need for a stronger Canadian fashion identity. They reflect on how fashion can be a political and emotional tool, pushing back against perfectionism, societal norms, and the polished "clean girl" aesthetic. Rebecca-Jo shares advice for creators trying to find their voice, emphasizing the value of community, creative growth, and being true to yourself—even in a world that rewards conformity shorten this to be a instagram post saying tht there is a new episode out add allthe call outsn the bottomsFollow Rebecca-JoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/youthin.asia/Find me and the podcast online:Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and other streaming platforms.Follow me on Instagram: @girlintofashionFor fashion networking, follow @workinginfashionRead more on Substack: https://workinginfashion.substack.com/Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode. More fashion deep dives coming soon.

In this episode of Through the Back Door, Claire sits down with Amelie Stanescu, the voice behind The Fashion Archives, for an intimate and wide-ranging conversation about fashion, identity, and finding your place in a shifting industry. Amelie shares her journey from Romania to Berlin and even Paris, where she carved out a space for herself in the fashion world. She reflects on the contrasts between Berlin’s experimental, open-minded energy and Paris’s structured, legacy-driven scene, and how each city shaped her creative perspective.Amelie opens up about how her academic background in business continues to inform her approach to content, storytelling, and entrepreneurship. Claire and Amelie dive into everything from the pressure of follower counts to the challenges of gaining access to fashion shows, and the realities of building a personal brand in the age of Instagram. They discuss the rise of fashion as entertainment, the transition from visual content to podcasting, and what it really means to create something with substance in a trend-chasing world.Their dialogue touches on the emotional complexities of being a content creator—navigating imposter syndrome, embracing vulnerability, and learning to speak with conviction in an industry that often rewards conformity. From Copenhagen Fashion Week to the politics of invitations, to what it means to add real value as a designer or storyteller, this episode pulls back the curtain on the multifaceted realities of working in fashion today.Follow Amelie:YouTube: The Fashion ArchivesSpotify: The Fashion Archive – The PodcastInstagram: @chez.amelieFollow the Host:Instagram: @girlintofashionPodcast IG: @throughthebackdoor.podThrough the Back Door is an extension of Blossom Nite, our real-life space for connection, collaboration, and celebration in fashion.Want to be part of the next Blossom Nite?Follow along here: @blossom.niteRSVP for the next event: Eventbrite

In this engaging conversation, Hanna and Claire explore the intersection of makeup artistry and photography, discussing Hanna's journey from a photographer to a beauty influencer. They delve into the impact of social media, the evolution of trends in the beauty industry, and the role of AI in creative processes. Hanna shares her experiences with viral content and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a fast-paced digital landscape, while also reflecting on the personal growth that comes from embracing change and creativity. In this engaging conversation, Hanna shares her journey from personal struggles to launching her own lipstick line, emphasizing the importance of creativity, community, and authenticity in the beauty industry. The discussion touches on overcoming self-doubt, the significance of finding balance to avoid burnout, and the joy of creating art. Hanna expresses her desire to build a supportive community for beauty creators and highlights the transformative power of makeup as a form of self-expression.Follow them on instagram and tiktok and youtube! https://www.instagram.com/not_another_hanna/https://www.tiktok.com/@not_another_hannahttps://www.youtube.com/@NotAnotherHanna

In this episode, Claire chats with Selena Norman to dive deep into the unconventional paths that lead to success in the fashion world. They emphasize the importance of creativity, community, and self-discovery, as Selena shares her journey from industrial design to jewelry making with her brand, Dopl World. She also opens up about the challenges of maintaining originality in a fast-paced, fast-fashion landscape.World-building in fashion: The creative process of telling stories through fashion collections and the value of creating timeless, cherished designs, especially in bridal fashion.3D printing in jewelry and fashion design: How this innovative technology streamlines production, allows for custom designs, and opens new doors for creativity.Balancing creativity and business: The struggle to maintain a sustainable career as an independent designer, dealing with burnout, and the need for developing sustainable practices.  They also explore the importance of personal connections and community support in navigating the chaotic fashion industry, helping designers overcome challenges and thrive. Throughout the episode, Selena reflects on how collaboration and networking are vital in building a successful career in fashion. #FashionPodcast #DoplWorld #EmergingDesigners #JewelryDesign #IndustrialDesign #FashionCommunity #CreativeJourney #SustainableFashion #CustomDesign #BridalFashion #3DPrinting #WorldBuilding #FastFashionChallenges #IndependentDesigner #FashionIndustry #FashionCreativity #NetworkingInFashionMore info on Dopl World:Check them out at on instagram @dopl.worldwww.doplworld.com About Us!Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nitea fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcastFollow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwoodEmail: clairevastola@alienwestwood.comwww.alienwestwood.com

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Riley shares her journey from North Carolina to New York City, detailing her experiences in the modeling industry, the importance of networking, and the evolving role of social media in fashion. She discusses her participation in various fashion weeks, the challenges and triumphs of modeling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring models. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity, personal branding, and the interconnectedness of the fashion community.Keywordsmodeling, New York, fashion week, social media, networking, career advice, runway, designers, authenticity, personal branding. More info on Riely:Check them out at on instagram @rileyhundleywoodell About Us!Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nitea fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcastFollow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwoodemail: clairevastola@alienwestwood.comwww.alienwestwood.com

SummaryIn this conversation, Claire and Chris Mena discuss the intricacies of the fashion industry, focusing on Mena's recent Urban Camo show. They explore the challenges and successes of fashion shows, the importance of hair and makeup, and the role of AI in design. Sustainability is highlighted as a core value in Mena's work, alongside the impact of social media on fashion trends. The discussion also touches on the need for emerging designers to navigate the business side of fashion while remaining true to their artistic vision. Mena shares insights on the future of fashion, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and perseverance in the industry.TakeawaysMena reflects critically on his recent Urban Camo show, identifying both successes and areas for improvement.The importance of hair and makeup in enhancing the overall aesthetic of a fashion show is emphasized.AI has become a valuable tool in Mena's design process, allowing for innovative and generative designs.Sustainability is a core focus for Mena, with efforts to incorporate vintage and deadstock fabrics into his collections.Emerging designers must learn the business side of fashion to succeed in a competitive market.Social media plays a significant role in shaping fashion trends and influencing consumer behavior.Mena discusses the challenges of creating unique designs in a saturated market.The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's artistic vision.Mena shares his thoughts on the future of fashion, emphasizing the need for innovation and sustainability.The discussion concludes with advice for aspiring designers to keep pushing through challenges and remain dedicated to their craft.More info on Made by Mena:Check them out at on instagram  @_madebymenaand the website www.madebymena.com About Us!Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nitea fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcastFollow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwoodemail: clairevastola@alienwestwood.comwww.alienwestwood.com

Today we’re getting  into the world of sustainable fashion with New York City-based designer Helena Eisenhart. They’ve been running their own brand since 2015, blending creativity with ethical practices to craft standout collections. In this episode, Helena shares their journey from college to becoming a brand owner, how they source sustainable materials, and the challenges of maintaining a small, independent fashion label. Join us as we discuss the importance of community, collaboration, and staying true to your values while navigating the ever-evolving fashion landscape.Starting the Brand: Helena began the fashion brand in 2015, right after graduating college, and transferred to Pratt Institute to gain a more conceptual and artistic background in fashion. Sustainability Practices: they sources materials from places like Fab Scrap, deadstock fabric, and vintage garments, ensuring that everything is made in order to prevent overproduction and waste. Collaboration & Experimentation: Collaborating with artists and experimenting with different techniques and materials lead to unique fashion collections that stand out in the market.  Technical Expertise: Helena’s skills in pattern making and draping are essential in creating custom orders for diverse body types. Freelancing for Flexibility: Freelancing provided they with valuable experience and flexibility before fully committing to they brand, allowing they to grow at they own pace. Challenges of Running a Small Brand: Helena emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and the constant need for funding to sustain they business while ensuring ethical practices like fair wages. Community Building: Building a community through social media and in person interactions is crucial for brand growth, with a focus on meaningful connections and collaborations. Creative Reflection: Taking time to reflect and journal is a key part of they creative process, helping they develop strong concepts and ideas for future collections. Expanding the Studio: Growing they studio and working with a regular team enhances creativity and productivity, with plans to incorporate live music and more events to foster a collaborative atmosptheye. Runway Shows for Exposure: Organizing runway shows provides exposure and opportunities for growth, as seen in they upcoming Spring/Summer collection, which will feature new aesthetics and different fabrics. Sustainable Textile Access: Helena highlights the need for better and more affordable sustainable textiles for smaller brands to continue thriving in the industry. Find out more about Helena@helenaeisenhart https://www.helenaeisenhart.com/ About Us!Through the Back Door is a brought to you by @blossom.nitea fashion industry party in NYC for networking and collaboration.Follow the podcast @throughthebackdoorpodcastFollow the host Claire Vastola @alienwestwoodemail: clairevastola@alienwestwood.comwww.alienwestwood.com