In this episode of Stories and Style, host Atiba Newsome sits down with longtime friend, fashion stylist, costume designer and creative director, Eric Archibald, to discuss poignant memories and pivotal moments.

They delve into Eric's beginnings in the fashion industry, his early career beginnings, and his relationship with the late actor Michael K. Williams [Mike]. Eric shares intimate stories about their time together, including how he was his first client and muse and key moments in Mike’s career, including how he got his distinctive scar.

Eric also shares how Mike introduced him to June Ambrose, which was a pivotal moment that opened doors in his career. Eric openly talks about his feelings towards death and loss, celebrating the legacies left by his loved ones.

00:37 First Paid Job and Early Career

01:35 Mentorship and Personal Growth

01:43 Relationship with Michael K. Williams

02:42 Mike's Career and Challenges

05:57 Reflections on Michael K. Williams' Legacy

10:19 Coping with Loss and Moving Forward

In this episode of Stories In Style, Eric Archibald gets candid about the complexities of client relationships in the industry. Eric shares personal stories of professional splits and breakups with clients, the challenges of meeting client expectations, and the importance of perseverance and dedication to one’s craft. They discuss how stylists must continually innovate and tailor their work to each unique client, handling criticisms and managing the creative process amidst varying opinions. Eric highlights memorable moments and stories, including parting ways with former client Jennifer Hudson, and underscores the significance of treating every job with utmost care and professionalism.

00:33 Navigating Client Relationships

01:19 Dealing with Client Departures

02:17 Maintaining Professionalism and Quality

04:13 Unique Styling Approaches

05:15 Creative Challenges and Adaptations

07:45 Handling Criticism and Opinions

Fashion with Friends: The Lifeline of Relationships 

In this episode of Stories in Style, host Atiba Newsome is back with longtime friend and fashion industry veteran Eric Archibald. They delve into the importance of relationships in the fashion industry, how reputation is critical for success, and more.  Eric shares personal stories about wardrobe mishaps, the indispensable value of a skilled tailor, and the complexities of meeting client expectations, stressing the need for constant readiness and adaptability. They also touch on notable collaborations and relationships with industry powerhouses like Frank Gatson, Fatima Robinson, JaQuel Knight, and Laurieann Gibson.  Additionally, Eric talks about the Alexis Bittar campaign and the joy of working with longtime friends. The episode underscores the delicate balance of trust, accountability, and genuine connection in thriving within this challenging industry.  

00:43 The Importance of Relationships in the Industry

02:17 Tales of Wardrobe Malfunctions

03:35 The Art of Tailoring

05:49 Navigating Client Expectations

06:32 Memorable Collaborations and Projects

09:14 The Alexis Bittar Campaign

In the third episode of Stories In Style, host Atiba Newsome welcomes back first-season guest Eric Archibald, who spills behind-the-scenes stories with stars from Usher to Kirstie Alley, including Faith Evans, Tyra Banks, Will Smith, the Isley Brothers, Remy Ma, and more. 

He emphasizes the vital role that collaboration and support have played in his work, recalling close partnerships with fellow stylists Marni Senofante and Charlene Roxborough Konsker.  Marni’s bold vision and Eric’s complementary calm approach, along with his long-standing bond with Charlene, have all helped shape his journey.

In particular, Eric reflects on his friendship with Emmy-nominated stylist and editor Marni Senofante and their joint efforts on Beyoncé’s Formation World Tour and the Lemonade visual album. He goes on to uncover how his Harlem apartment became the early styling headquarters for the landmark projects.

As fashion trends accelerate in today’s digital age, Eric credits his unwavering focus on craft with keeping him grounded and relevant. He dispels the myth that styling plus-size or full-figured clients is inherently challenging by showing that true style transcends size, and he even reveals why he ultimately walked away from a Bad Boy tour. Tune in for these behind-the-scenes stories and much more in this episode of Stories In Style.

From Ballroom to Mainstream: The Journey of Eric Archibald

In this episode of 'Stories in Style,' Atiba Newsome continues his conversation with fashion powerhouse, Eric Archibald. They delve into Eric's origins in the ballroom scene, his work on the HBO Max show, "Legendary," and the influence of 90's club culture on their unique styles.

Eric shares personal stories and experiences from New York's vibrant nightlife, memorable interactions with iconic brands like Dolce & Gabbana, and his journey into the fashion industry.

They reminisce about styling celebrities like Foxy Brown and Blackstreet, the evolution of their fashion choices, and the sense of individuality within their circle. The episode highlights the challenges and successes of making a mark in the fashion world and celebrates Eric's unwavering dedication to self-expression and creative authenticity.

-Entering the Ballroom Scene

-Costume Design for the HBO Max show, "Legendary"

-90's Fashion and Club Culture

-Styling Foxy Brown's first music video, "Get Me Home"

The debut season of Stories in Style traces the personal and professional journey of fashion stylist, costume designer, and creative director Eric Archibald. Through intimate conversations with his longtime friend and host Atiba Newsome, Eric reflects on the moments that shaped his path, including early influences, career-defining milestones, and the quiet resilience it takes to stay in the game.

In this first episode, Eric takes us back to where it all began, from his earliest creative sparks in Antigua to dressing icons on the world’s biggest stages. From styling Aaliyah’s legendary VMA look to recent collaborations with Megan Thee Stallion and Amerie’s surprise return at Coachella, Eric shares the stories behind the style and the lessons that keep him grounded in an ever-changing industry.

-Eric’s early life in Antigua and how it shaped his eye for fashion

-The story behind Aaliyah’s iconic yellow and black Roberto Cavalli gown at the 2000 MTV VMAs

-Collaborating with Amerie, from her early days to her show-stopping return at 2025 Coachella

-The family influences that first introduced him to style and creativity

-How Carnival and the rhythm of movement continue to influence his creative process

-The artistry and intention behind great costume design

-Styling Megan Thee Stallion and what it means to shape the image of one of today’s biggest stars

Subscribe and follow Stories in Style on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.Follow us on Instagram ⁠@thestoriesinstyle⁠ and visit ⁠storiesinstyle.com⁠ for more.

An intimate podcast spotlighting the stylists and costume designers behind some of fashion and culture’s most iconic moments. Hosted by fellow stylist and costume designer Atiba Newsome, Stories in Style reveals the creative journeys and personal stories that rarely get told—until now.

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