In this episode of You Have to Wear Something , we unpack the bittersweet closure of beloved Black-owned beauty brand Ami Colé , and what it reveals about the barriers Black women entrepreneurs still face. Then, we get into Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad and its tone-deaf “great genes” message — because let’s be real, eugenics wrapped in denim isn’t the flex they think it is. Plus, we spotlight Ralph Lauren’s Oak Bluffs collection, a rare nod to Black wealth, legacy, and leisure that has us ...
Aug 08, 2025•31 min
On this episode of You Have to Wear Something , Nicole sits down with John Nichols—aka LaJethroJenkins—host of the long-running Jenkins & Jonez podcast and founder of 12 on Mondays , a brand reclaiming space for Black golfers through culture, community, and unapologetic style. From his St. Louis roots to Forest Park history, John unpacks the legacy of Black golf pioneers, how fashion disrupts elitism in the sport, and why the best rounds aren’t measured by scorecards—but by vibes....
Jul 12, 2025•1 hr 18 min
This week, Nicole chats with Christine Lindebak, the creative force behind Sewing and the City . From falling in love with sewing at age six to working the front of house at iconic fashion houses like Pucci, Christine shares her journey of pivoting from high fashion to handmade. Tune in as she talks about empowering people to reconnect with their wardrobes, embrace imperfection, and stitch their way to a more sustainable (and stylish) future. Join Christine's 16k plus community...
Jun 30, 2025•42 min
Nicole dives into Cannes' controversial fashion bans, the power of resisting through style, and why Black women are still fighting for space—in fashion, politics, and the workplace. From Meghan Markle’s joyful defiance to the BET Awards' "Black Tie, Black Designed" statement, this episode unpacks cultural erasure by brands like Aime Leon Dore, streetwear appropriation, and why putting that shit on is more radical than ever.
Jun 10, 2025•13 min
Host Nicole reflects on the 2025 Met Gala as a powerful celebration of Black culture, creativity, and history. She critiques the exclusion of key Black voices, calls out performative allyship, and highlights symbolic fashion moments from stars like Taraji P. Henson and Jeremy Pope. Despite systemic issues, the Gala broke fundraising records—thanks largely to Black talent—proving that Black culture is both influential and profitable. "Slaves to Fashion"-Monica Miller...
May 16, 2025•19 min
Nicole breaks down why your clothes cost more (hint: tariffs), why the Met Gala still matters , and how fashion is always political — especially when it’s Black. 👗 Fashion history, cultural truth bombs, and a PSA to support small biz (including her shop JIYU — yes, it’s on sale). Tap in. Dress up. Press play. Buy: Slaves to Fashion:Black Dandyism and the styling of Black Diasporic Identity...
May 02, 2025•14 min
Nicole Hosts VFX Pro Danee Chesney for a Deep Dive on Meghan Hate, Black Women’s Rest, and the Unspoken Rules of Spades
Mar 30, 2025•59 min
Nicole has covered the cultural influence of Meghan Markle, now Sussex, for years. In this episode, she critiques the perceived controversy around Meghan's new lifestyle show on Netflix "With Love, Meghan" from unexplained hate to allegations of copying Pamela Anderson's show. One thing's for sure, the "92%" approves of this boring rich Black woman and views her as a symbol of a much needed rest.
Mar 19, 2025•16 min
Meet Traci Pollard, Brooklyn-based designer with over 20 years of experience in the interior design industry, known for her bold, minimal, and colorful surface designs that blend hand-drawn and painted elements. Her creative journey began in Argentina as a stay-at-home mom seeking artistic expression, which led her to immerse herself in Surface Pattern Design and connect with a global network of creators. Beyond her design expertise, she’s also here to discuss critical topics like the erasure of...
Mar 10, 2025•50 min
Nicole catches up on fashion topics of the year from Trump's tariffs and overall government takeover to DEI and Black History Month, to Kendrick's flared Celine jeans. The year is off to a bumpy start for diversity in fashion.
Feb 24, 2025•16 min
Nicole dives into L.A.'s state of emergency, unpacks fashion's role in the climate crisis, shares sustainable style tips, and celebrates the standout looks of 2024. 🌍✨ Wildfire Relief Efforts HERE
Jan 13, 2025•24 min
Nicole sits down with self-taught L.A.-based designer Ciara Chyanne to discuss her inspiring journey—from selling her creations in the yard at Tuskegee University to showcasing her talent on Making the Cut. Guided by her faith, Ciara shares her vision for evolving into a global lifestyle brand.
Nov 23, 2024•1 hr 10 min
Nicole interviews Sonia Smith-Kang, founder of Mixed-Up Clothing , about her journey from nurse to fashion disruptor. Inspired by her multicultural family, Sonia created a brand that celebrates diversity and showcases vibrant global cultures through children’s clothing. Keep up with Sonia and Mixed Up Clothing here: https://www.instagram.com/mixedupclothing/ Tune in for an inspiring story of creativity, inclusion, and representation!...
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Nicole shares fashion news she is excited about from a Lewis Hamilton Dior Collab to the 2025 Met Gala Theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style". With inclusivity leading the charge, these exciting activations are ones to watch!"
Oct 23, 2024•16 min
Two Aquarian Queens, Daneé Chesney and Nicole, dive into pop culture, VFX magic, and the zeitgeist with unfiltered banter. Nothing’s off-limits when these Black lady powerhouses get talking! Book suggestions: Miss Me With That by Rachel Lindsay & Thanks Obama by David Litt
Oct 06, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Nicole shares her perspective on the media obsession with Diddy's indictment and arrest and what he meant culturally for music and fashion. There seems to be a connection between men in power and sexual harassment or abuse, no matter the industry.
Sep 27, 2024•11 min
Nicole reflects on her 14 years in L.A. and why she has no regrets while debunking common myths and complaints about the City of Angels and why you have to be self-aware before moving to the creative professional capital.
Sep 12, 2024•32 min
Nicole shares her thoughts on the now energized presidential campaign, Kamala's political style and the significance of red and blue.
Aug 30, 2024•17 min
Nicole shares her fashion thoughts on this year's Olympics kits and the importance of expanding opportunities. Kamala is on fire and that's a good thing.
Aug 13, 2024•21 min
NIcole shares her thoughts on the intersectionality and rise of fashion and sports for women particularly in the WNBA.
Jul 18, 2024•15 min
Nicole discusses the benefits of gay friendship, the air of freedom in June with Pride and Juneteenth and why homophobia is antiquated af.
Jun 16, 2024•12 min
Nicole interviews Mansfield Outpost founder Matt Moses about the journey that led to the creation of his brand and the challenges he has in an evolving industry. Enjoy this thoughtful conversation about storytelling marketing, activations and how to approach micro-niche collaborations such as "Golf and Wine Club".
Apr 28, 2024•50 min
Nicole shares thoughts on Cowboy Carter II and the Beyonce marketing blitz of the last few months.
Apr 10, 2024•13 min
Nicole takes a look back at the 2024 Black History Month and the Black style and biz moments that kept our attention.
Feb 25, 2024•21 min
Nicole interviews multitalented, D.C. based artist Chris Pyrate. Inspired by cartoons and animation, Chris's natural born talent has led him, often accidentally, to fashion design, creating murals, creative direction and kismet projects such as storytelling with Lupe Fiasco. Learn what's next for Chris who recently designed official sportswear for the Washington Wizards. A must-listen for any creative! Keep up with Chris here: https://www.instagram.com/chrispyrate/?hl=en...
Jan 28, 2024•1 hr 9 min
Nicole does a deep dive on the keffiyeh controversy and explains how the scarf went from being just a scarf to a symbol for Palestinians.
Dec 29, 2023•13 min
Nicole delivers a mini rant about the lack of diversity when appointing creative directors of major fashion houses.
Oct 18, 2023•15 min
It seems like in L.A. there is always a new shopping market especially for the Black community. Nicole does a deep dive with Ferriss Mason, Founder of Come Up L.A. on what it takes to pull off a successful, mission-aligned market event for the Black community and the challenges that come with. Listen and learn.
Oct 10, 2023•1 hr 14 min
The Battle of Versailles event and competition of 1973 started Paris fashion week and put American designers and Black models on the map forever. Watch the documentary by Fritz Mitchell.
Oct 06, 2023•20 min
Nicole shares some thoughts on NYFW 2023 nostalgic themes and trends such as quiet luxury and Beyonce worthy metallics.
Sep 17, 2023•10 min
