menSwear by a Woman

In Part 2 of our conversation with James Shaw founder of Albam and now building Peace we go deeper into what it really feels like to run a brand that’s so closely tied to your identity. James speaks candidly about the emotional weight behind menswear, from the pride of creating something meaningful to the pressure of sustaining it over time. We unpack what it means to step back into the industry for a second chapter, and the mindset shift required to build again this time with experience, perspective, and a clearer sense of purpose. We also explore the realities of navigating a changing fashion landscape, how lessons from Albam have shaped his approach to Peace, and the delicate balance between honoring what came before while not being defined by it. There’s a strong thread of self-reflection throughout on creativity, resilience, and the vulnerability that comes with putting your name behind something new. This episode is an honest look at reinvention, the emotional ties that bind founders to their work, and the quiet determination it takes to begin again in an industry that never stands still.

In this episode, we sit down with William Kroll, founder of Tender Co., to explore how a truly independent brand is built and why it matters. William walks us through the early days of Tender Co., from its unconventional beginnings to the hands-on process that defines the brand today. Rooted in experimentation and craftsmanship, Tender Co. was never about fitting into the traditional fashion system, but about creating something slower, more considered, and deeply personal. Beyond the origin story, we dive into what the brand stands for. For William, Tender Co. reflects the real reasons for changing challenging mass production, rethinking how things are made, and placing value back on process, material, and intention. It’s a perspective that goes against the grain, but one that feels increasingly relevant.We also talk about the realities of starting your own brand: navigating uncertainty, staying committed to your vision, and building something meaningful in a crowded and fast-moving industry. This episode is a thoughtful look at creativity, independence, and the mindset required to create work that lasts both in product and principle.

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Nourmand, founder and editor-in-chief of Reel Art Press, and a leading figure in visual culture publishing. With a background in vintage movie posters, Nourmand has spent decades shaping how we experience film, music, photography, and fashion through books. He discusses the vision behind Reel Art Press and the stories behind standout titles such as Black Ivy, a powerful exploration of Black style and its influence on fashion and identity, alongside works like 100 Movie Posters that celebrate the artistry of cinema.
Throughout the conversation, Tony reflects on uncovering rare archives, collaborating with photographers and creatives, and publishing books that document everything from Hollywood’s golden age to street style, subcultures, and iconic fashion movements. His work highlights how fashion intersects with music, film, and social history, capturing moments that define cultural change.
This episode offers a compelling look at the art of publishing and the enduring power of visual storytelling across film, fashion, and beyond.

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Chang  a celebrated illustrator and the founder of Ivy Boys, a platform that has carved out a distinctive voice in the world of menswear. Known for his sharp eye and signature artistic style, Aaron has built a loyal following by capturing the essence of classic and contemporary men’s fashion through illustration. We explore Aaron’s journey into the industry, the story behind Ivy Boys, and how his work has gone on to collaborate with heritage icons like J.Press and Ralph Lauren  bringing to life some of the most enduring Ivy League inspired looks through his illustrations. From the influence of traditional Ivy League aesthetics to the evolution of modern menswear, Aaron shares his perspective on where the culture is headed and why storytelling through art still matters. Whether you’re a dedicated menswear enthusiast or simply curious about the intersection of fashion and creativity, this episode offers a thoughtful look into one of the most distinctive voices shaping the space today.

Hello everyone, I hope you all had a wonderful Easter.
Just a quick update to let you know that we’ll be back next week with a new episode. It’s a special one, and we’re still working out exactly how we’re going to bring it to you! Our guest is very well known in the menswear world, and this will be a real first for menSwear by a Woman Podcast.
Fingers crossed, everything goes smoothly on the day 🤞🏽
We can’t wait to be back to our regular episodes next week. See you then!