Ever wondered what happens to fashion after it makes history? Jessica Pushor, who manages 50,000 pieces of clothing at the Chicago History Museum, takes us behind the velvet rope into one of the most fascinating jobs in fashion. From a European court dress that survived 250 years (and a 1925 rummage sale) to Emilio Pucci hot pants that won't fit on any mannequin, Jessica shares stories that will make you see museum collections in a whole new light. Her journey to this role is just as compelling, she got some of her best education working at Buffalo Exchange, learning what makes clothing worth saving by handling thousands of secondhand pieces and hearing the stories behind them.
In this episode, Jessica reveals the surprising challenges of costume curation: Why do Civil War shoes last longer than 1990s sneakers? How do you display a dress from the 1770s when you don't have the original undergarments? And what do you do when everyone wants to donate their grandmother's underwear? She also shares practical wisdom for vintage lovers and collectors, explaining when to invest in quality basics versus trendy pieces, and why that emotional connection to clothing makes fashion such a powerful way to interpret history. Whether you're fascinated by conservation techniques, vintage shopping, or just love a good fashion story, this conversation delivers.
Follow Jessica on Instagram @Jessica_pushor and learn more about Chicago's fashion history at @chicagomuseum
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In the sixth episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce discuss the pros and cons of wearing the flag - a touchy subject in today's political climate where every fashion statement is a political statement, but especially this one.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In the fifth episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce speak with stylist, consignment luxury studio owner, and expert authenticator, Demeta Arvanitis, about how deep her passion for all things couture goes - folks, it goes pretty darn deep. Tune in to hear just how deep this FGI board member gets into the details.
Follow Demeta on Instagram @styledbydemetra
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In the forth episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce talk about Melissa's recent business travels and the styling, or lack of styling happening in airports these days.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In the third episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce interview Marquan Jones the president of the Chicago Fashion Coalition, an organization that works to position Chicago as a prominent global fashion hub. We talk about Chicago Fashion Week and all of the upcoming events that the Chicago Fashion Coalition has a hand in producing (find them here). But Marquan's vision for how we show up in the world is more than how Chicago turns out on the runway, he is also a dynamic community builder and brand strategist who merges technology, creativity, and social impact by serving as an Impact Officer for the World Economic Forum's Global Shapers Chicago. Marquan's journey through food deserts to Chicago fashion is one that will likely get you out of your seat and into action.
Follow Marquan and the Chicago Fashion Coalition on Instagram: @chicagofashioncoalition
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In the second episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce introduce a new show feature, "Style it or Pile it," where we each take turns pulling something beloved but long left unworn from our closets to ask each other and you - do we move it into this season's rotation or do we move on?
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Join our host, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, former mental health professional, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce in this season opener as Chicago's creative underground gets its moment in the spotlight as multi-talented director, producer, and stylist Casscellina. Known for her ability to spot hidden talent and create compelling visual narratives, Casscellina represents a new breed of artists who refuse to be boxed into single categories. From styling decades-spanning fashion shows to penning crime family sagas, Casscellina embodies the entrepreneurial creative spirit that drives Chicago's alternative arts scene.
The discussion explores how creative disciplines intersect and inform each other, particularly as Casscellina transitions from visual storytelling to written narrative with her upcoming three-part crime fiction series "No Questions Asked." Her insights into fashion's evolution across the 70s, 80s, and 90s, combined with her observations about society's increasing casualization, offer both historical perspective and contemporary cultural commentary. This episode reveals how one artist's diverse skill set reflects the broader changes in how we create, consume, and present ourselves in modern culture.
Follow Casscellina at @Casscellina, and @antixartshow
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In this magical season finale, Teddi and Melissa break open fortune cookies that deliver an identical, mysterious message about journeys and transformation - and suddenly find themselves experiencing life from each other's perspectives. What starts as a typical evening of Chinese takeout becomes an extraordinary exploration of aging, beauty, and self-perception as 71-year-old Teddi inhabits Melissa's 48-year-old body and discovers what it was like to be "hot as hell" in her prime, while Melissa gets a preview of life at 71. Through this supernatural lens, they dive deep into the psychology of how we see ourselves at different life stages and the anxieties that come with each decade.
This episode serves as both a fitting finale to Season 2 and a perfect encapsulation of what "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" is all about - using fashion and appearance as a gateway to discuss the deeper truths about confidence, identity, and the female experience across generations. As Teddi reminisces about turning heads in Manolo Blahniks and mini dresses while Melissa contemplates wrinkly knees and the wisdom that comes with age, listeners get a poignant and often hilarious look at the full spectrum of womanhood. Thank you for joining us for Season 2 - we'll be taking a summer break and returning this fall with Season 3, where we'll continue exploring the fascinating intersection of psychology, fashion, and the stories our clothes tell about who we are.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our Patreon community
In this captivating episode, hosts Teddi Krochman and Melissa Pierce welcome Melissa Carter, owner and creative director of Kameo Vintage, a Chicago-area pre-loved styling brand. Melissa shares her fascinating journey from a fifth-grader who rejected conformity on Chicago's North Shore to becoming a vintage fashion expert mentored by legendary stylist Patricia Field. Her story reveals the profound psychological impact of using fashion as a form of self-expression and rebellion against homogeneous environments. From shopping 1940s capes for bar mitzvahs in seventh grade to curating vintage pieces in Patricia Field's Lower East Side store, Melissa demonstrates how authentic style can become a powerful tool for creating identity and building community.
The conversation delves deep into the psychology behind vintage fashion's current resurgence, exploring how people are increasingly seeking authentic human connections and meaningful stories behind their clothing choices. Melissa discusses her concept of "style integrity" as essential business etiquette and explains how different body types align with specific fashion eras, revealing the intimate relationship between personal identity and historical aesthetics. The hosts and guest examine society's current fashion malaise—from the overwhelming nature of fast fashion to the loss of personal styling relationships—and explore how vintage fashion might offer a path back to intentional dressing. Their discussion of the 1970s as the ultimate fashion era, celebrating diversity and challenging social norms, provides insight into how clothing choices reflect broader cultural movements and individual aspirations for self-expression.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Follow Melissa @kameovintage
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In this lively buddy episode, hosts Teddi and Melissa catch up on their recent fashion adventures around Chicago. They dive into their experiences at designer Tytus's jungle-dinosaur themed fashion show where guests were instructed to wear only black and white (though one rebel showed up in red!). Teddi shares her enchanting visit to Sujata Gazder's design studio, describing it as "being in a candy store," and recounts her eye-opening preview of Dior's fall collection at Neiman Marcus, where a perfectly fitted bomber jacket came with a $6,000 price tag and a Lady Dior handbag cost $10,000.
The conversation takes an entertaining turn as they explore sneaker culture through their attendance at a Curio sneaker event, where Teddi stood out as the only person wearing four-inch stilettos among a crowd of sneaker enthusiasts. They discuss the cultural significance of sneakers with featured speakers Yohance LaCour, and Dave Jeff, learning how getting dressed "from the feet up" was a revelation. Between sharing stories about shoe sizes (Teddi is size 5.5 and Melissa is a size 10), upcoming fashion events, and their summer hiatus plans, the hosts deliver their signature blend of fashion insight and personal humor that will keep you laughing right up until the end.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our Patreon community
In this sparkling episode, hosts Teddi and Melissa welcome a Chicago-born jewelry designer Maancy (pronounced MAHN-see), who creates modern, interchangeable jewelry pieces. From her "I can't find what I want to wear" frustration to studying at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America, Maancy's journey to launching her brand in October 2023 is nothing short of inspiring. Her designs are a stunning fusion of Art Deco glamour and modernist architecture, transforming gorgeous gemstones like quartz and calcite into wearable art that speaks volumes.
Maancy spills all the tea on why she chose to work with just three master artisans in a dreamy downtown LA atelier instead of going the cheaper overseas route. These skilled craftspeople hand-forge each piece in solid sterling silver, creating jewelry so personalized you practically know whose hands touched your earrings! Fresh off her debut at Paris Fashion Week (yes, PARIS!), where buyers couldn't stop buzzing about her innovative concept, Maancy is proving that sustainable luxury isn't just possible, it's personal.
Find Maancy on Instagram at @maancy.m or visit her website: https://maancy.com/
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our Patreon community
In Episode 19, Teddi and Melissa tackle the intersection of politics and personal expression through fashion, examining how government policies are increasingly controlling how people present themselves. The conversation opens with the Trump administration's declaration that only two sexes exist and people must present according to their assigned gender at birth, effectively policing clothing choices and self-expression through dress.
The hosts explore the historical roots of "fashion statements" as political rebellion, tracing back to figures like Joan of Arc who challenged gender norms through clothing. Drawing connections to their recent interview with Professor Linda Przybyszewski, they discuss how the dismantling of home economics departments during the Cold War eliminated spaces where women could pursue scientific careers and learn the art of dress. The conversation reveals how fashion has always been a form of political communication—from protest t-shirts to the symbolic power of the pink pussy hats from the Women's March.
The episode takes a sharp turn examining the current administration's targeting of marginalized communities through appearance-based discrimination, while noting the irony of MAGA women's hyper-feminized aesthetic that mirrors drag performance. Teddi and Melissa issue a passionate call to action, encouraging listeners to use fashion as resistance and to dress as a form of political expression, emphasizing that in a constitutional crisis, our clothing choices become statements of defiance against authoritarianism.
(Note: Teddi mentions that the Pritzkers own the Marriott hotel chain, however, it's the Hyatt)
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
To sponsor the show, email us at whydontweressfordinner at gmail.com, or join our Patreon community
In Episode 18, Teddi and Melissa welcome Professor Linda Przybyszewski (pronounced "Pruh-buh-SHEF-skee") , author of "The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Made America Stylish" and Associate Professor of History at Notre Dame. The conversation explores the fascinating world of the "Dress Doctors," professional women in the early 20th century who applied Western art principles to fashion, creating democratic guidelines for beautiful, economical dress through five key principles: harmony, emphasis, balance, rhythm, and proportion.
The discussion delves into the "six occasions for dress" that guided women's fashion choices: school, business, housework, spectator sports, social afternoons, and evenings, revealing how each occasion had specific principles about appropriate styles and colors. Professor Przybyszewski explains how the 1960s youth movement, alongside the dismantling of home economics departments, led to the rejection of dress principles and the rise of casual fashion, resulting in the loss of sophisticated styling for women over 30.
The episode concludes with a thoughtful examination of our current fashion landscape and a hopeful discussion about pockets of resistance through vintage clothing and appreciation for elegant dressing, suggesting a potential future rebellion against ultra-casual fashion in favor of more intentional, occasion-specific attire.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Once Made America Stylish by Linda Przybyszewski
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our Patreon community
In this buddy episode, Teddi shares her recent deep dive into Chicago's vintage fashion scene, from exploring designer vintage pop-ups to discovering treasure at the Ravenswood Vintage Market—including a unique 1980s handbag designed to look like a rolled-up Vogue magazine. She also reveals the surprising story behind her most extravagant fashion purchase ever: a $1,000 pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes!
The conversation takes several fascinating turns as Teddi recounts her first-ever professional makeup session (in her 70s!) with talented artist Rania, sparking a discussion about makeup techniques for mature skin. Looking ahead, the hosts tease upcoming podcast guests and events, including their interview with a fashion historian from Notre Dame University, Tytus's fashion show, and a designer sneaker event. Throughout their wide-ranging chat, Teddi and Melissa weave in thoughtful reflections on the psychology behind what people wear during times of revolution and how clothing choices become powerful statements of identity.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Artists mentioned in the show:
@schlesakvintage, @kameovintage, @imarriedamillenial, @jenrestylefashion, @emmalyonsart, @sujatagazder, @makeupartist.rania , @kivanci.official, @by.tytus
and the book, The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Once Made America Stylish by future guest, Linda Przybyszewski
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our Patreon community
In Episode 16, Teddi and Melissa welcome designer Tytus of "Tytus by Tytus," whose distinctive sustainable couture brand launched in 2016. Dressed in his signature style—a tweed jacket, necktie without a shirt, ripped pants, and thigh-high camo boots with spiked heels—Tytus embodies his brand's unique blend of "informal formal wear" that combines structured silhouettes with edgy streetwear elements.
The conversation explores his surprising design inspiration: dinosaurs, which represent something "completely different" and "majestic" with both structure and organic flow, qualities he incorporates into his primarily upcycled designs.
Tytus shares his journey from an After School Matters program to developing his self-taught design practice focused on transforming thrifted materials into one-of-a-kind pieces. He discusses his fashion show "Raw XD: Wild Ones," featuring 18 looks showcasing his aesthetic in a jungle-inspired setting. The discussion takes a fascinating turn when Tytus identifies the 1970s as his favorite fashion era, praising how men had the freedom to express themselves beyond traditional masculinity. Tytus's confidence, creativity, and commitment to authentic self-expression shine through, offering listeners insight into how sustainable fashion can serve as both personal statement and industry revolution.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Follow Tytus @by.tytus
To sponsor the show, email us, or join our patreon community
In this buddy episode, Teddi shares her exciting experience working with talented photographer Marcus Jenkins, highlighting his meticulous attention to lighting and composition that resulted in portrait-quality images she describes as "like paintings." She gives special recognition to designer Omaima Couture from Niles, who provided the stunning navy blue pleated gown she wore for the photoshoot. Teddi also mentions an upcoming project with photographer Skyye Kimmons for his "40 Over 40" series featuring women over forty, showcasing Chicago's vibrant creative community.
The conversation shifts to current fashion trends, with both hosts discussing the resurgence of 1970s style, specifically boho chic aesthetics with flowy blouses, wide-legged jeans, and platform shoes. Melissa, dressed in vibrant patterns and layered accessories, embodies this trend that Teddi notes is prominent in 2025 fashion. They explore how vintage shopping connects to these cyclical fashion trends, with Melissa sharing insights from her thrift shopping adventures with her teenage daughters and giving shoutouts to local vintage shops, including Dovetail in Wicker Park and Luvsick, which specializes in plus-size vintage clothing.
As the episode draws to a close, Teddi and Melissa celebrate their one-year podcast anniversary, recalling how they first met at last year's Curio spring mixer—the same event they had just attended. They reflect on their journey creating a podcast dedicated to showcasing Chicago fashion creatives and express gratitude to Curio for bringing them together.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
People and places we love mentioned in the show:
Join hosts Theodora Krochman and Melissa Pierce as they welcome Sharaun B, who shares her journey from America's Next Top Model (Cycle 11) to creating Model Tribe, a platform revolutionizing the modeling industry by combining fashion with wellness. Sharaun candidly discusses the reality behind reality TV, revealing how being eliminated for "having too much confidence" became a catalyst for her personal transformation and eventual mission to help others.
Through Model Tribe, Sharaun has created virtual and physical spaces where women of all ages learn modeling techniques while focusing on confidence-building and self-worth. She challenges traditional modeling industry toxicity by emphasizing the connection between fashion and mental health, declaring, "Fashion is wellness," and advocating for a more feminine, creative approach to personal style.
The conversation explores how modeling can serve as a tool for self-discovery rather than just a professional pursuit. Sharaun shares how her new headquarters at Chicago's Water Tower Place offers runway training, photoshoots, and wellness activities that help women connect with their bodies and develop authentic confidence that comes from embodiment rather than performance.
As the episode concludes, the three women contemplate why society has become so casually dressed. Sharaun offers insights on how systemic pressures and exhaustion lead to prioritizing comfort over self-expression. She presents her vision for breaking this cycle through celebrating individuality, reclaiming feminine energy, and creating supportive communities that encourage creative expression through fashion.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Follow Sharaun B: @sharaunb
Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.
In Episode 13, Melissa shares exciting news about completing her MBA thesis, which examines how the absence of strategic planning sets small creative businesses back, creates poor workforce feedback loops, and keeps fashion brands trapped in survival mode. Drawing from her personal experience working in the fashion industry, Melissa describes the challenges of operating in environments where leadership fails to establish clear key performance indicators and collaborative decision-making processes. Teddi, drawing from her own marketing background in healthcare, provides contrasting examples of effective leadership practices that involve team members in budget decisions and strategic direction.
The conversation expands to explore the broader challenges facing creative professionals in the fashion industry, with both hosts noting how many talented designers and stylists in Chicago must maintain other careers while pursuing their passion part-time. They discuss the particular difficulty of monetizing artistic pursuits without compromising creative integrity, sharing personal examples from their families, including Teddi's husband Ken, a talented artist who spent years in the insurance industry to support their family despite his artistic talents. The hosts reflect on how economic necessities often force creative individuals to put artistic aspirations on hold.
As the episode wraps up, Teddi and Melissa contemplate the value of pursuing one's passion, even if later in life, highlighting how constraints of time, energy, and financial responsibilities can postpone creative pursuits. Their candid conversation offers listeners insight into the business realities of creative industries while celebrating the persistent drive that keeps artists and fashion professionals pursuing their vision despite institutional and economic challenges.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
In Episode 12, Teddi and Melissa welcome Erica Severson, a multifaceted professional whose career journey has taken her from military service to modeling and eventually to marketing, branding, and social media storytelling. Originally from Milwaukee and now a decade-long Chicago resident, Erica shares her unique perspective on how fashion functions as a form of communication, whether through a military uniform or a couture gown. The conversation explores her fascinating transition from military structure to creative expression, and how her diverse background influences her approach to brand building and personal style.
The discussion delves into Erica's involvement in Chicago's vibrant fashion community and how she leveraged her skills as a former drill sergeant and private investigator into learning to observe and strategize effective social media and PR strategy for both personal and business brands. As someone who navigates both the professional marketing world and the creative fashion scene, Erica offers practical advice for listeners looking to grow their digital presence authentically. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes her mission to uplift and empower others through mentoring, networking, and building meaningful brands that create lasting impact.
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
Follow Erica @elite.erica_
Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.
In Episode 11, Teddi and Melissa dive into the emerging "Castle Core" trend that Pinterest has identified as a growing aesthetic pushing back against minimalism. The hosts explore how this medieval-inspired fashion movement—featuring armor elements, chainmail accessories, and medieval silhouettes—might reflect deeper societal anxieties and desires. Melissa theorizes that the trend represents people seeking a connection to pre-digital, pre-plastic times while simultaneously serving as psychological armor during uncertain times. Teddi notes her surprise at seeing friends like Nikki Street Style wearing actual armor pieces and Delphine (a Season 1 guest) wearing a hand-painted leather jacket resembling armor at recent Chicago fashion events.
The conversation expands to include observations about the return of fur on major fashion runways, with Teddi highlighting Fendi's recent collection featuring both shearling and faux fur. Drawing parallels to the 1930s, when society embraced glamour and luxury during difficult times, Teddi suggests today's fashion responds similarly to global uncertainty. She notes her recent purchases of a leopard faux fur coat and black faux fur shrug, unconsciously aligning with this trend toward a more expressive, luxurious dressing that contrasts with the previous "quiet luxury" aesthetic.
Throughout their discussion, Teddi and Melissa examine how fashion continues to function as both political expression and psychological comfort during turbulent times. Teddi concludes that focusing on personal style can be an act of resistance and self-care. As she puts it, "I'm going to dress for dinner. I'm going to make plans with my husband, and I'm going to get all dressed up. I'm not going to let that bastard bring me down."
Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner
