In this episode of You Have to Wear Something, we dive into how Black creativity thrives even in America’s most turbulent times. From Motown in the civil rights era to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour and Kendrick Lamar’s intentional casting choices, Black artists continue to reclaim the spaces and genres they built. We unpack the revival of rap with the Clipse, the overdue celebration of dark-skinned beauty in culture and fashion, and the importance of authentic representation on screen—from The Gilded Age to British Vogue covers. It’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the ongoing fight against erasure.
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 asking: is this celebration or just another sanitized version of our truth? From mitochondrial DNA to the Black origins of jeans, we cover the culture — and who gets to profit from it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Nicole Hosts VFX Pro Danee Chesney for a Deep Dive on Meghan Hate, Black Women’s Rest, and the Unspoken Rules of Spades
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.
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 DEI in the industry, the importance of Black representation in interior design, and—fun fact—what it's like having “New York” Tiffany Pollard as a cousin.
Keep up with Traci here: https://tracipollard.com/ and IG https://www.instagram.com/tracipollardpds/
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.
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
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.
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!
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!"
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
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.
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.
Nicole shares her thoughts on the now energized presidential campaign, Kamala's political style and the significance of red and blue.
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.
