Written by Craig Landale in Interviews on the 12th June 2023

Celebrating our 200th episode milestone of The Menswear Style Podcast, we proudly present a compilation of our top-rated podcast episodes on men's fashion, lifestyle, and beauty. These remarkable shows captivated our audience, garnering the highest number of listeners and leaving a lasting impact. 

David Gandy, Founder of David Gandy Wellwear 

Discover the inspiring founding story of this innovative clothing brand, conceived during the unprecedented challenges posed by the global Covid-19 pandemic. David shares the remarkable journey of building a brand while navigating the obstacles and limitations of remote collaboration. Exploring the essence of Wellwear, our interview uncovers the brand's core values and what sets it apart in the fashion landscape. David Gandy eloquently articulates the brand's mission, highlighting its commitment to merging apparel and wellbeing, thereby revolutionizing the concept of a lifestyle brand. Wellwear stands at the intersection of fashion, function, and feeling, placing the emotional wellbeing of its customers at the very heart of its offerings. Delving into the science of comfort, Gandy sheds light on the profound research that underpins the brand's approach to fabric selection. Discover how Wellwear harnesses the benefits of wearing soft, comfortable clothing, with studies revealing that the touch of smooth fabrics can instil a sense of psychological wellbeing and alleviate negative emotions. By meticulously curating tactile fabrics such as Pima cotton, lyocell, and modal, the brand ensures the ultimate softness and luxurious feel of its garments. Additionally, Gandy explains the natural functionality of fabric constructions, including body temperature regulation and moisture wicking, which further enhance the comfort and overall experience for the wearer. One of the key innovations that Wellwear champions is the integration of anti-bacterial fabric, a sustainability-driven approach that challenges the norms of the fashion industry. Our interview explores the environmental benefits of utilizing such fabrics, reducing the need for frequent washing and thereby increasing the lifespan of each garment. By embracing this sustainable practice, Wellwear actively contributes to a positive wider environmental impact.

Luca Faloni, Founder of Luca Faloni 

With the exciting news of three new store openings on the horizon in Miami, Munich, and Milan, we delve into the brand's background and uncover the motivations driving this expansion. Luca Faloni explores the distinct advantages of launching a brand in the online realm and how this digital approach has shaped the brand's identity. Faloni shares his unique perspective on why the current moment presents the perfect opportunity to venture into physical retail spaces, allowing customers to engage with the brand in a tangible and immersive way. At the heart of Luca Faloni lies a celebration of Italian design and craftsmanship. From its inception, the brand has committed itself to delivering impeccable quality and timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from Italy's rich sartorial heritage. In our interview, we delve into the essence of Italian style and its enduring appeal in the world of menswear. As the business landscape evolves, Faloni sheds light on the challenges posed by cost increases and how they impact the brand's operations. In a candid discussion, he shares insights into the strategies employed to navigate these changes while maintaining the brand's commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and accessible luxury.

Niklas Oppermann, Co-Founder of Carl Friedrik 

Join us as we delve into the fascinating founding story of this remarkable brand, which emerged a decade ago when Oppermann crafted a leather laptop sleeve as a heartfelt birthday present for his brother. Niklas shares his journey of building Carl Friedrik from the ground up. Discover the allure of life in London and how this vibrant city played a pivotal role in shaping the brand's identity. Oppermann candidly discusses the challenges of launching a brand with limited financial resources, shedding light on the creative strategies employed to bring their vision to life. Delving into the realm of sales channels, our interview explores the contrasting dynamics between wholesale and direct-to-consumer approaches. Niklas provides valuable insights into the benefits and considerations associated with each, offering a glimpse into the brand's decision-making process. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we uncover the inspiration behind Carl Friedrik's latest creation, The Rover Collection. Oppermann shares the creative influences and meticulous craftsmanship that define this exceptional line of products, providing a glimpse into the brand's commitment to timeless design and uncompromising quality. For enthusiasts seeking deeper engagement with the brand, the interview also delves into the Creators Club, offering listeners an exclusive opportunity to join a community that celebrates creativity and collaboration. Niklas explores the ethos of the club and the unique experiences it affords its members.

Geoff Souster, Co-Founder of Souster & Hicks 

Delve into the fascinating world of bespoke tailoring as we explore Geoff's extensive history within the industry, a journey that began when he made the bold decision to drop out of school at the tender age of 15. The interview delves into Geoff's early beginnings, tracing his path from a local tailoring apprenticeship to his enrolment at the prestigious London College of Fashion. Gain valuable insights into the foundations of the trade and the pivotal moments that shaped Geoff's expertise. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Geoff shares captivating stories of working with famous clients. Explore the world of bespoke tailoring from an insider's perspective, gaining a glimpse into the intricacies of serving esteemed individuals in the public eye. As fashion and style continue to evolve, the conversation delves into the shifting trends within the tailoring industry. Geoff reflects on the transformations he has witnessed throughout his career and offers his perspective on how the trade has adapted to meet the changing demands of the modern world. Education plays a vital role in honing one's craft, and Geoff delves into the significance of continuous learning within the realm of bespoke tailoring. Discover the importance of mastering the art of customer service, a fundamental pillar of Souster & Hicks' success. Geoff shares his insights on delivering exceptional service and building lasting relationships with clients.

Peter Ricci, Co-Founder of MANTL 

Join us as we uncover the inspiring story behind the launch of this groundbreaking brand, dedicated to providing skincare solutions for balding men. Peter's personal journey with hair loss, which began in his mid-twenties and ultimately led him to embrace a shaved head, serves as the catalyst for MANTL's creation. In a candid conversation with our esteemed host Peter Brooker, Peter Ricci shares his own experiences of grappling with hair loss and the realization that men lacked the same range of skincare options that women enjoy. Recognizing this gap in the market, particularly in terms of scalp care, Ricci and his wife decided to embark on a mission to redefine skincare for balding men. Exploring the unique offerings of MANTL, our interview dives into how the brand's products stand apart from others on the market. Discover the thoughtfully curated range of skincare solutions that address the specific needs of the scalp, offering nourishment, protection, and enhanced confidence to those embracing a bald or shaved head. Ricci sheds light on the brand's commitment to high-quality ingredients, effective formulations, and a dedication to empowering balding men with a comprehensive skincare regimen. As the conversation unfolds, the importance of SPF takes center stage. Peter Ricci emphasizes the significance of sun protection for the scalp, an often-neglected area when it comes to skincare routines.

August Bard Bringéus, Co-Founder of ASKET 

Discover the intriguing history and profound philosophy behind this innovative menswear brand. The interview delves into the motivations driving ASKET's unique approach, which encourages men to buy less clothing in an era dominated by fast fashion. Unveiling the origins of ASKET, we explore August Bard Bringéus's personal journey and his serendipitous encounter with his business partner, Jakob Nilsson Dworsky, during their time at business school in Sweden. United by a shared passion and a desire to create something meaningful and distinctive, the duo embarked on a mission to address sustainability and ethics in the clothing industry. The conversation deepens as we explore ASKET's solution to combat the waste problem perpetuated by fast fashion. August shares the brand's visionary business model, meticulously designed to slow down consumption and enhance value within the supply chain. ASKET's approach centers around a single permanent collection of classic menswear pieces, each fully traceable, from farm to finish line. By focusing on timeless designs and meticulous craftsmanship, ASKET encourages customers to invest in high-quality garments that transcend fleeting trends, fostering a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. Sustainability and ethics are at the core of ASKET's philosophy, and our interview sheds light on the brand's unwavering commitment to these principles. From sourcing materials responsibly to ensuring transparency throughout the production process, ASKET strives to redefine the relationship between consumers, fashion, and the environment.

Oliver Spencer, Menswear Designer 

Tuning in from his home on the picturesque Isle of Wight during a period of self-isolation, Oliver shares his unique journey and the story behind his eponymous menswear brand. Our host, Peter Brooker, delves into Oliver's background and the experiences that led him to establish his renowned label. Championing the use of British cloth, Oliver Spencer emphasizes his commitment to supporting local industries and reducing the overall environmental footprint of his brand. Delve into the discussion as he highlights the exceptional qualities of fabrics like linen sourced from Northern Ireland, offering a glimpse into the thoughtful choices made in the production of his garments. Exploring the landscape of men's garment manufacturing, Oliver shares his insights on the best places to produce high-quality clothing. With a focus on minimizing environmental impact, he sheds light on the importance of responsible sourcing and ethical manufacturing practices. Gain a deeper understanding of the meticulous approach Oliver Spencer takes to ensure every step of the production process aligns with their sustainability goals. As the conversation unfolds, the topic shifts to the current climate of operating during the Coronavirus pandemic. Oliver discusses the challenges faced by shop owners and the transformative effects of the global crisis on the fashion industry. Gain valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability required to navigate these unprecedented times.

William Green, Co-Founder of L’Estrange London 

Explore the origins of the brand's name and uncover the fascinating story of how this exceptional menswear label came to be. It all started with a smart and stylish men's hoodie that laid the foundation for their unique approach. William shares how L'Estrange London reached out to fashion stores worldwide, sending samples and attending clothing trade shows. Their relentless pursuit paid off, as they quickly garnered attention and secured partnerships with esteemed retailers such as Colette, Saks Fifth Avenue, Isetan, and The Shop at Bluebird. The brand's commitment to offering stylish and versatile pieces resonated with customers globally. With a distinct product design approach, L'Estrange London challenges the industry's seasonal norms. Rather than following the traditional fashion calendar, they focus on creating timeless and adaptable garments. Their mission is to simplify the male wardrobe, providing comfortable and effortlessly stylish clothing suitable for various occasions. Discover their commitment to delivering pieces that seamlessly transition from day to night, work to leisure, and everything in between. The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Peter and William delve into sustainability and its importance to L'Estrange London. Explore the brand's initiatives and their dedication to minimizing their environmental impact. Gain insights into how they navigate the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and the transformative effects it has had on their trading operations.

Andreas Christian von der Heide, Co-Founder of Les Deux 

Explore the captivating founding story of this remarkable brand, which took shape during Andreas' time in law school with a mere £1000 investment. Discover how Les Deux emerged from humble beginnings, initially experimenting with stitching patches onto white t-shirts - a powerful testament to the potential of a brand driven by two founders from contrasting cultures. Gain insights into how their diverse backgrounds contribute to the brand's unique identity and the creative synergy that arises from such collaboration. Discover the sources of inspiration that fuel their creative process, shaping the distinctive aesthetics and ethos of Les Deux. The conversation further delves into the brand's pricing strategies, highlighting their commitment to providing value without compromising on quality. Andreas sheds light on the careful balance they strike, ensuring their offerings are accessible while maintaining the brand's integrity and craftsmanship. Another remarkable aspect of Les Deux is their Rewear program, and Peter and Andreas explore this initiative in detail. Learn how Les Deux embraces sustainability through their commitment to extending the lifespan of their garments.

James Eden, Founder of Private White V.C. 

Listen to the inspiring founding story of this distinguished British menswear brand, named after James' great-grandfather, Private Jack White. Discover how this legacy fuels the brand's ethos and commitment to crafting exceptional garments made in Britain. James talks upon the unique positioning of Private White V.C. as the last remaining clothing factory in Manchester's historic Cottonopolis. Once the bustling heart of the cotton industry, this iconic city serves as the backdrop for the brand's heritage and the embodiment of its commitment to preserving British manufacturing. Gain insights into an average working day for James as he shares his experiences and the dedication that drives the brand forward. Explore the brand's remarkable response to the Covid-19 pandemic, including their pivotal role in creating personal protective equipment (PPE) for the National Health Service (NHS). Witness how Private White V.C. went beyond their core offerings to support their community and make a difference in challenging times. The conversation also delves into the importance of transparency in the fashion industry. James discusses the significance of brands being open and honest about the origins of their garments.

Interviews with David Gandy, Luca Faloni, Niklas Oppermann, Geoff Souster, Peter Ricci, August Bard Bringéus, Oliver Spencer, William Green, Andreas Christian von der Heide, and James Eden.