Fashion People Podcast Episode Summary: "Menswear Diaries" with Aaron Levine
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Introduction
In this episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman engages in an in-depth conversation with fashion industry veteran Aaron Levine. The discussion delves into Aaron's extensive career in menswear, his transition from major fashion houses to launching his own brand, and his personal insights into the evolving landscape of men's fashion.
1. Guest Introduction: Aaron Levine
Lauren Sherman welcomes Aaron Levine, a seasoned designer with over two decades of experience in the fashion industry. Aaron shares his journey from starting in sales roles to becoming a pivotal figure at renowned brands like Club Monaco and Abercrombie & Fitch.
2. Early Life and Influences
Aaron recounts his upbringing in Annandale, Virginia, highlighting the significant influence of his mother, a distinguished calligrapher and former president of the National Calligraphers Guild. She nurtured his appreciation for design and craftsmanship.
“I have to say, my mom is exceptional. I remember her having a show in the Smithsonian when I was a senior in high school. She's amazing.” [09:27]
3. Introduction to Fashion
From a young age, Aaron was captivated by clothing and its ability to express individuality. Despite early academic challenges, particularly with an honors biochemistry program due to his ADHD, Aaron found his true passion in fashion.
“I absolutely love it in my own way. It's not really, like, a fashion way. It's just like, I love it in my way.” [11:21]
4. Career Beginnings: From Sales to Design
Aaron's career kicked off with a sales assistant position at Joseph Abood, thanks to his mother's networking efforts. This role served as his entry point into the fashion world, allowing him to build foundational industry relationships.
“I had to give a shout out to my mom too, she was fighting for me every step of the way.” [20:12]
5. Club Monaco and the Menswear Movement
At Club Monaco, Aaron played a crucial role in the burgeoning menswear movement. Collaborating with mentors like Caroline Bellhumer, he emphasized accountability, service leadership, and creative innovation. His tenure was marked by both significant achievements and personal growth.
“When you're so passionate and curious, you start to flip over stones and just understand what people are passionate about.” [24:17]
Despite his contributions, Aaron faced challenges that culminated in his role being eliminated after six and a half years. He reflects on this experience with vulnerability, acknowledging both the impact he made and the personal toll it took.
“I was hurt because I put a lot of effort into that every single day.” [44:14]
6. Transition to Abercrombie & Fitch
Post-Club Monaco, Aaron joined Abercrombie & Fitch, where he served for over six years. During this period, he navigated the complexities of reviving a legacy brand amidst evolving market dynamics. His leadership focused on fostering collaboration and driving product innovation.
7. Consulting and Personal Branding
Following his tenure at Abercrombie & Fitch, Aaron ventured into consulting, offering his expertise in styling and design to various brands, including Madewell. This phase allowed him to influence multiple facets of the fashion industry while building his personal brand.
8. Launching His Own Brand
Aaron is now channeling his extensive experience into launching his own menswear brand, slated to debut on October 22nd. Partnering with Josh York of Detroit and Arturo Castaneda of Brooklyn, Aaron aims to create thoughtfully designed, culturally relevant pieces that resonate with everyday men.
“I love making it and see if it resonates with people.” [46:16]
His approach emphasizes small-scale production, quality craftsmanship, and continuous learning from customer feedback to refine his offerings.
9. Personal Insights and Work-Life Balance
Throughout the conversation, Aaron shares candid reflections on balancing multiple roles, maintaining personal well-being, and navigating the demands of a high-paced fashion career. He underscores the importance of authenticity and passion in his work.
“Everything that you want to make, it's exciting and you have a dream. It's terrifying, but you just have to do it.” [53:25]
10. Conclusion
Lauren Sherman and Aaron Levine conclude the episode with mutual appreciation and excitement for Aaron's forthcoming brand. Aaron commits to providing transparent progress reports, highlighting his dedication to authenticity and community engagement.
“We’re going to do it anyway. It's exciting and you have a dream.” [53:25]
Key Takeaways
- Passion Over Perfection: Aaron's journey underscores the importance of pursuing one's passion, even amidst challenges and setbacks.
- Collaborative Leadership: Effective leadership in fashion involves fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous innovation.
- Authenticity in Design: Aaron emphasizes creating designs that are genuine reflections of personal and cultural narratives.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Navigating career transitions requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- “I absolutely love it in my own way. It's not really, like, a fashion way. It's just like, I love it in my way.” — Aaron Levine [11:21]
- “I was hurt because I put a lot of effort into that every single day.” — Aaron Levine [44:14]
- “When you're so passionate and curious, you start to flip over stones and just understand what people are passionate about.” — Aaron Levine [24:17]
- “I love making it and see if it resonates with people.” — Aaron Levine [46:16]
- “Everything that you want to make, it's exciting and you have a dream. It's terrifying, but you just have to do it.” — Aaron Levine [53:25]
Closing Remarks
Aaron Levine's story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and authentic leadership in the fashion industry. His upcoming brand promises to blend thoughtful design with cultural relevance, continuing his legacy of influencing menswear in meaningful ways.
Stay tuned for future episodes of Fashion People, where Lauren Sherman continues to uncover the stories behind the industry's movers and shakers.