Fashion People – Episode Summary: "Fashion Police"
Release Date: January 7, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman engages in an insightful conversation with renowned fashion editor and entertainment journalist, Zana Roberts Rossi. The episode delves deep into the intricate dynamics of the fashion industry, highlighting behind-the-scenes narratives from high-profile events, designer shifts, and the ever-evolving relationship between fashion and Hollywood.

Honoring Industry Icons: Ralph Lauren & Anna Wintour

The episode opens with a celebratory note as Lauren announces that both Ralph Lauren and Anna Wintour have been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

• Lauren Sherman [06:15]: “The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States…or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

Zana expresses her admiration:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [06:28]: “I think well deserved as well. Very well deserved.”

The discussion highlights Ralph Lauren's enduring influence on American culture and fashion:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [07:14]: “He was from Manchester and then London. I was aware of it. That was America. Like, that was the heritage brand… he’s a guy from the Bronx and he's worked so hard… if anyone deserves a medal, it's Ralph Lauren.”

Similarly, Anna Wintour's pivotal role in shaping global fashion prestige is lauded:

• Lauren Sherman [09:40]: “Anna Wintour is similar in that she… she is British. But I can't imagine her. She's so American to me.”

Zana adds:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [10:32]: “She’s transformed. She turned Vogue into a global powerhouse… her legacy is going to be this champion of diversity and nurturing new talent.”

Behind the Scenes at W Magazine Party

Lauren shares her experiences attending the W Magazine party, emphasizing the blend of high fashion and celebrity interactions.

• Lauren Sherman [11:48]: “There were fewer stylists, but big names like Rebecca Ramsey and Justine Loop were present, wearing Prada and looking stunning.”

Zana provides vivid descriptions of the attendees and the relaxed atmosphere:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [12:38]: “Nicole Kidman and Angelina Jolie were both just hanging out. It was such a relaxed and fun environment.”

They discuss notable moments, including interactions with influential stylists and designers, highlighting the seamless integration of fashion and celebrity culture.

Golden Globes Red Carpet Highlights

The conversation shifts to the recent Golden Globes, where both Lauren and Zana dissect the fashion trends and standout moments from the event.

Fashion Trends and Celebrity Looks:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [20:08]: “Trend-wise, it was a solid start to awards season with nods to old Hollywood blended with modern aesthetics.”

Notable Celebrity Ensembles:

• Selena Gomez in a Prada ice blue dress:

  • Zana Roberts Rossi [21:48]: “Selena looked amazing… the Prada ice blue was beautiful.”

• Zendaya in Louis Vuitton:

  • Lauren Sherman [22:09]: “Young love. She looked amazing in Louis Vuitton.”

• Emma Stone in a mint green Armani dress:

  • Lauren Sherman [38:52]: “Last year, Emma Stone's mint green dress was a standout despite a mishap.”

• Viola Davis in Gucci:

  • Zana Roberts Rossi [28:59]: “Viola Davis in Gucci was gorgeous.”

Menswear Highlights:

• Daniel Craig in a velvet Armani suit:

  • Zana Roberts Rossi [25:37]: “He looked incredible with the polka dots and the velvet fabric.”

• Jeremy Strong sporting a Jade velvet bucket hat:

  • Lauren Sherman [25:37]: “I love his bucket hat; it's a bold fashion statement.”

Designer Success Stories:

Louis Vuitton emerges as the most successful brand of the evening:

• Zana Roberts Rossi [36:33]: “Louis Vuitton was probably the most successful… Zendaya, Cynthia, and Kate Blanchett all wore their pieces fabulously.”

The Evolving Role of Designers in Film and Red Carpet Synergy

Lauren and Zana explore the symbiotic relationship between fashion houses and the film industry, noting how designers are increasingly involved from the inception of film projects rather than solely focusing on red carpet appearances.

• Zana Roberts Rossi [40:01]: “We're seeing more designers getting involved from the beginning of movie-making… it's a whole other business.”

They discuss Saint Laurent's collaboration with Emilia Clarke and the seamless integration of film costumes with red carpet fashion, emphasizing the holistic approach to celebrity styling.

• Lauren Sherman [42:51]: “Jonathan Anderson spoke on the panel about how blending film and fashion can amplify brand presence.”

Future of Fashion in Cinema: Designer-Centric Costume Design

The hosts share their aspirations for future collaborations between designers and filmmakers, envisioning a landscape where fashion is integral to cinematic storytelling.

• Lauren Sherman [44:10]: “Demna would be funny… or Marc Jacobs could bring a unique perspective to costume design.”

• Zana Roberts Rossi [45:37]: “I’d love to see Victoria Beckham take on a whole movie costume design. Or even Christopher John Rogers… imagine the vibrancy.”

Closing Thoughts and Future Events

As the episode wraps up, Zana shares her upcoming engagements, including coverage for the Grammys, Oscars, and the Met Gala. Both hosts express excitement for future discussions and events, underscoring the continuous evolution of fashion within the entertainment industry.

• Zana Roberts Rossi [46:23]: “I’ll be covering the Grammys next, then the Oscars, and the Met Gala.”

Lauren concludes by praising Zana's contributions and inviting her back for future episodes focused on major award seasons.

Notable Quotes

• Lauren Sherman [06:15]: “The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor… presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions… to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

• Zana Roberts Rossi [10:32]: “She has been transformed into a global powerhouse… her legacy is going to be this champion of diversity and nurturing new talent.”

• Zana Roberts Rossi [36:33]: “Louis Vuitton was probably the most successful… Zendaya, Cynthia, and Kate Blanchett all wore their pieces fabulously.”

• Lauren Sherman [44:10]: “Demna would be funny… or Marc Jacobs could bring a unique perspective to costume design.”

Conclusion

"Fashion Police" offers listeners an engaging and comprehensive look into the pivotal moments and influential figures shaping the fashion industry today. Through Lauren Sherman and Zana Roberts Rossi's dynamic dialogue, the episode captures the essence of contemporary fashion, its deep ties with Hollywood, and the continual reinvention that keeps the multi-trillion-dollar fashion biz vibrant and forward-moving.

Produced and Edited by: Molly Nugent
Executive Producers: John Kelly, Ben Landy, Gabby Grossman
Special Thanks: Odyssey Team – JD Crowley, Jenna Weiss Berman, Bob Tabador