Forever35 Podcast Episode 363: Stretching the Power of Fashion with Nikki Ogunnaike

Release Date: August 4, 2025
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu
Guest: Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief at Marie Claire Magazine

1. Introduction and Hosts' Catch-Up [02:17 – 10:50]

The episode kicks off with Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu sharing personal updates, focusing on Elise's recent experiences in a high-stakes tennis sectionals tournament. Elise recounts the challenges faced due to unpredictable weather conditions and the mental strain of competitive sports:

Elise Hu [04:18]: "I had like maybe the most frustrating match I've ever played. It was very windy, and that threw me off enough."

Despite a tough singles match, Elise highlights the camaraderie and collective effort of her team, ultimately securing a respectable third place. The conversation underscores the balance between individual performance and team dynamics, emphasizing the emotional highs and lows of competitive sports.

2. Introduction of Guest: Nikki Ogunnaike [10:50 – 15:04]

Doree introduces Nikki Ogunnaike, a seasoned fashion editor with an impressive portfolio, including roles at Vanity Fair, InStyle, Glamour, Elle, GQ, Harper's Bazaar, and currently, Editor-in-Chief at Marie Claire. Nikki's expertise in fashion and her experience navigating the evolving media landscape set the stage for an insightful discussion.

3. Self-Care Practices with Nikki Ogunnaike [15:04 – 18:00]

The conversation begins with Nikki sharing her self-care routine, emphasizing the importance of physical activity:

Nikki Ogunnaike [15:20]: "My most consistent self-care practice is working out in one way or another. I'm a pretty avid runner and take a stretching class every Sunday."

Nikki elaborates on her dedication to stretching, explaining how attending a structured class ensures consistency and highlights the comprehensive benefits of a dedicated stretching routine:

Nikki Ogunnaike [16:14]: "Carving out that 45 minutes just for myself has made such a big difference. It brings awareness to the body."

The hosts discuss the physical repercussions of neglecting such practices, with Doree humorously mentioning her own struggles with "dead butt syndrome," underscoring the universal challenges of maintaining physical health.

4. Fashion Insights and the Evolving Role of Magazines [19:00 – 25:18]

Transitioning to fashion, Doree poses a critical question about the relevance of magazines in the digital age:

Doree Shafrir [19:04]: "How do you think about the role of magazines and now, you know, Marie Claire specifically, given the way attention has become so fractured?"

Nikki responds by highlighting the multifaceted approach of modern magazines, integrating print with digital platforms such as podcasts, newsletters, and live events:

Nikki Ogunnaike [19:16]: "Magazines, when I think about Marie Claire, it's just a small portion of it. We have print, a podcast, a newsletter, the website, live events—each piece is equally important."

She emphasizes the continued value of print media as a tangible asset while acknowledging the necessity of diversifying content delivery to stay relevant.

5. Current Fashion Trends and Industry Concerns [21:38 – 28:10]

Delving into fashion trends, Nikki expresses excitement for Michael Ryder's new line at Celine, appreciating its blend of luxury and approachability:

Nikki Ogunnaike [21:38]: "Michael Ryder's Celine just debuted a few days ago, and his designs are so beautiful yet approachable. It's redefining modern luxury."

However, she voices concerns about the industry's obsession with extreme thinness, linking it to unhealthy societal standards:

Nikki Ogunnaike [22:56]: "I'm really scared about the proliferation of skinniness that's happening. It reminds me of the bad parts of the 2000s."

Keen on fostering a more inclusive and health-conscious fashion environment, Nikki advocates for authentic representation and ethical beauty standards.

6. Reflecting on Past and Future Fashion Trends [25:30 – 29:01]

Nikki ponders which early 2000s fashion items should be preserved for future nostalgia, such as cropped leather jackets and Bermuda shorts. She cautions against the rampant "dupe culture," encouraging mindful purchasing and valuing quality over quantity:

Nikki Ogunnaike [25:30]: "We're going to look back and regret dupe culture—the idea that everyone needs to have everything. Maybe next time, we should opt for secondhand or skip unnecessary purchases."

This reflection underscores a shift towards sustainability and intentionality in fashion consumption.

7. Beauty Favorites and Recommendations [28:10 – 32:21]

Kicking off a segment on beauty, Nikki shares her staple products, favoring minimalist routines aligned with her busy lifestyle. She highlights:

• Merit Beauty's Blush Balm: Versatile for cheeks and lips.
• NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer: A long-time favorite for reliable coverage.
• Nyx Butter Gloss: Affordable and universally loved.
• La Roche-Posay Sunscreen: Praised for its effective, non-casting formula.

Her endorsements provide listeners with practical, high-quality beauty options that balance efficacy and simplicity.

8. Reality TV Preferences and Personalities [33:37 – 44:43]

The discussion shifts to reality television, with Nikki expressing enthusiasm for shows like "The Traitors" and "Big Brother," appreciating the blend of strategy and social dynamics. She humorously reflects on her potential participation:

Nikki Ogunnaike [42:10]: "I could be a bartender on 'Watch What Happens Live' and a great friend on 'Housewives,' but I don't think I could be a main housewife."

Nikki emphasizes the importance of authenticity and leadership, pondering how her skills would translate in reality TV settings.

9. Advice for Younger Generations [44:45 – 47:00]

Wrapping up, Doree and Elise invite Nikki to share guidance for younger individuals navigating today's complex world. Nikki advises focusing on controllable aspects, such as personal responses and community involvement:

Nikki Ogunnaike [45:04]: "Realizing that you can only control your response to things is crucial. Be an active participant in your life."

She encourages perseverance and the value of trying despite potential failures, fostering a mindset of resilience and proactive engagement.

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts [47:00 – End]

The episode concludes with the hosts and Nikki reflecting on their personal intentions and affirming the importance of self-care, community, and mindful living. The conversation underscores the interconnectedness of fashion, media, personal well-being, and societal influence, leaving listeners with actionable insights and inspiration.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Elise Hu on Frustrating Tennis Match [04:18]:
  "I had like, maybe the most frustrating match I've ever played. It was very windy, and that threw me off enough."

• Nikki Ogunnaike on Self-Care [15:20]:
  "My most consistent self-care practice is working out in one way or another. I'm a pretty avid runner and take a stretching class every Sunday."

• Nikki on Modern Luxury Fashion [21:38]:
  "Michael Ryder's Celine just debuted a few days ago, and his designs are so beautiful yet approachable. It's redefining modern luxury."

• Nikki on Dupe Culture [25:30]:
  "We're going to look back and regret dupe culture—the idea that everyone needs to have everything. Maybe next time, we should opt for secondhand or skip unnecessary purchases."

• Nikki's Advice to Young People [45:04]:
  "Realizing that you can only control your response to things is crucial. Be an active participant in your life."

Key Takeaways

• Balance in Self-Care: Nikki emphasizes the synergy between physical activity and mental well-being, advocating for structured self-care routines.

• Evolving Media Landscape: Modern magazines like Marie Claire are diversifying their content delivery to stay relevant in a fragmented attention economy.

• Fashion Inclusivity: There's a growing movement towards inclusive and sustainable fashion, rejecting past harmful standards of beauty.

• Mindful Consumption: Listeners are encouraged to make intentional choices in fashion and beauty, prioritizing quality and sustainability over fleeting trends.

• Empowerment and Resilience: The episode concludes with empowering advice for younger generations to take control of their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

This episode of Forever35 offers a rich blend of personal anecdotes, expert insights, and practical advice, making it a valuable listen for anyone interested in the intersections of fashion, self-care, and media in today's world.