Episode Summary: Every Outfit Podcast – Episode 229: "On And Just Like That: They Wanna Have Fun"

Release Date: July 12, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 229 of the Every Outfit podcast, hosts Chelsea Fairless and Lauren Garroni delve deep into the latest episode of HBO's "And Just Like That," titled "They Wanna Have Fun." This episode combines sharp fashion commentary with incisive pop culture analysis, staying true to the show's blend of fashion and societal observations.

**1. "And Just Like That" Episode Analysis

Lauren opens the discussion by addressing her recent life events, including her cesarean section, which led to the absence of the usual co-host. The conversation quickly shifts to the "And Just Like That" episode's reception and narrative choices.

• Season Shift and Audience Reaction:

  • Lauren Garrone ([05:10]): "I did not think this season is particularly worse than season two."
  • Chelsea Fairless ([05:39]): "There's been a vibe shift. People are starting to question the direction of the show."

• Character Developments and Plot Points:

  • LTW's Storyline:

    • The hosts discuss ongoing confusion regarding LTW's father's status, highlighting discrepancies between different sources.
    • Lauren ([06:03]): "Another thing, before we get into this truly bonkers episode is... Have you ever seen the Comeback?"

  • Michael Patrick King's "The Comeback":

    • They speculate on the show's renewal and its implications for "And Just Like That."
    • Chelsea ([07:15]): "I think it's the latter because 'And Just Like That' is still successful."

  • Episode's Central Plot:

    • Charlotte's birthday party serves as the main setting, bringing characters together and introducing tension through unexpected interactions.
    • Lauren ([10:16]): "Speaking of gaslighting, I just want to say that my TikTok feed this morning was filled with videos of clips of this episode being like, best episode yet."

• Guest Stars and Their Impact:

  • Patti LuPone's Role:

    • The hosts critique Patti LuPone's portrayal of Giuseppe's mother, questioning the character dynamics and authenticity.
    • Chelsea ([15:04]): "Patti LuPone, fresh from her cancellation... her reputation would have been tarnished like this."

  • Giuseppe and Anthony's Relationship:

    • Concerns are raised about the age disparity and potential grooming implications.
    • Lauren ([53:52]): "It is giving grooming. And I hate to put that label on a grown man..."

• Karaoke Party Scene:

  • A significant portion of the episode revolves around a karaoke party, which the hosts find both campy and ineffective in advancing the plot.
    • Lauren ([43:46]): "She was like, in another world. Like, she was like, transported to, like, fucking Narnia or something."
    • Chelsea ([40:56]): "I think that this episode did have good clothes, but they were on more minor characters..."

• Friendship Dynamics:

  • The tension between Miranda and Carrie is a focal point, with discussions about their evolving relationship and unresolved conflicts.
    • Lauren ([66:07]): "Which shifts, but it's like, at this point, Miranda has to put Carrie on ice."

Key Takeaways:

• The episode showcases significant character development but suffers from inconsistent plot execution.
• Guest stars add depth but also introduce questionable character dynamics.
• The karaoke scene, while visually engaging, lacks substantive narrative contribution.

2. Pop Culture Insights

Beyond "And Just Like That," Chelsea and Lauren explore various pop culture phenomena, offering their trademark blend of humor and critical analysis.

• Anne Hathaway on Vogue:

  • Discussion centers around Anne Hathaway's August issue cover and the accompanying editorial.
    • Lauren ([69:22]): "This cover really highlights what Dire Straits Vogue is in."
    • Chelsea ([71:34]): "The color grading is really getting increasingly extreme."

• Rumors and Industry News:

  • Speculation about Jeff Bezos potentially buying Vogue for Lauren Sanchez sparks debate.
    • Lauren ([69:54]): "I don’t think Conde Nast is on such..."

• Fashion Shows Recap:

  • Margiela's Couture Collection:

    • The hosts dissect Glenn Martin's first collection for Margiela, noting its academic nature and polarizing reception.
      • Chelsea ([78:15]): "All of the models' faces are covered... it feels like corpses."

  • Robert One's Collection:

    • Comparisons are drawn between Margiela’s and Robert One’s dark, avant-garde styles.
      • Lauren ([83:26]): "It was like a little tiny person on top of someone's head."

  • Schiaparelli and Balenciaga:

    • Daniel Roseberry’s work at Schiaparelli is lauded, while Demna's influence at Balenciaga is critically examined.
      • Chelsea ([85:46]): "I don't think it's his best collection, but I think it was great."

Key Takeaways:

• The fashion world remains a central theme, with hosts providing insightful critiques and drawing parallels to iconic styles.
• Anne Hathaway’s Vogue cover and the ongoing evolution of fashion houses like Margiela and Balenciaga are spotlighted.

3. Voicemail Segment: Jane Birkin Auction

The episode concludes with an engaging voicemail from roving correspondent Marissa Meltzer, who attended the auction of Jane Birkin's prototype Birkin bag in Paris.

• Auction Highlights:

  • The prototype bag sold for over $10 million, breaking previous records.
    • Marissa ([93:50]): "It sold for just over US$10 million, which is wild."

• Atmosphere and Attendees:

  • Marissa describes a cinematic auction environment with high-profile attendees, including celebrities and fashion insiders.
    • Marissa ([94:32]): "People were hugging strangers and getting very excited afterwards."

• Personal Anecdotes:

  • Marissa shares her excitement and experiences at the auction, including interactions and observations.
    • Marissa ([94:46]): "I was getting a glass of champagne a little bit afterwards and Tracy Ellis Ross was at the same bar."

Key Takeaways:

• The Jane Birkin prototype auction was a high-stakes, glamorous event, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Birkin bag in pop culture.
• Marissa's firsthand account adds a vibrant, on-the-ground perspective to the podcast’s content.

Conclusion

Episode 229 of Every Outfit offers a comprehensive and engaging critique of the latest "And Just Like That" episode, intertwined with broader discussions on fashion and pop culture. Through sharp analysis and personable banter, Chelsea and Lauren provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of current trends and media narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• Lauren Garrone ([05:10]): "I did not think this season is particularly worse than season two."
• Chelsea Fairless ([05:39]): "People are starting to question the direction of the show."
• Lauren Garrone ([10:16]): "Speaking of gaslighting, I just want to say that my TikTok feed this morning was filled with videos of clips of this episode being like, best episode yet."
• Marissa ([93:50]): "It sold for just over US$10 million, which is wild."

Timestamps Reference:

• 00:58 – 03:52: Hosts discuss Lauren’s absence due to childbirth and the impact on podcast dynamics.
• 05:10 – 06:03: Analysis of season changes and audience reactions.
• 10:16 – 12:14: Introduction to the episode’s main plot and guest stars.
• 15:04 – 18:47: Deep dive into Patti LuPone’s character and her interactions.
• 25:03 – 34:09: Examination of Seema’s storyline and the implications of her character development.
• 43:46 – 65:22: Detailed critique of the karaoke party scene and its significance.
• 69:22 – 91:57: Discussions on Anne Hathaway’s Vogue cover, fashion show recaps, and industry rumors.
• 93:50 – 94:57: Voicemail segment covering the Jane Birkin auction.

Final Notes

For fashion enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados, this episode of Every Outfit provides an insightful and entertaining exploration of contemporary media and fashion narratives. Whether you're a fan of "And Just Like That" or keen on the latest fashion show critiques, Chelsea and Lauren deliver a rich and engaging listen.