Podcast Summary: Let's Get Dressed Episode: Marie Claire's Editor-in-Chief Nikki Ogunnaike on Breaking Media Molds, Why She'll Never Have A Capsule Wardrobe, And The 2025 Met Gala
Host: Liv Perez
Release Date: May 5, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Let's Get Dressed, host Liv Perez welcomes Nikki Ogunnaike, the dynamic Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire magazine. Nikki shares her extensive experience across various prestigious publications, including Vanity Fair, InStyle, GQ, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar. The conversation delves into Nikki's perspectives on fashion, media, and personal style, providing listeners with invaluable insights from a leading industry figure.

Navigating Fashion in New York City

Nikki and Liv kick off the discussion by exploring the challenges and nuances of maintaining a functional wardrobe in the bustling environment of New York City.

• Function Over Form: Nikki emphasizes the importance of dressing for functionality, especially in a city where time is precious and activities are varied.

  "I'm dressing for whatever the day may throw at me and knowing that I may be out for six, seven hours without the possibility of changing. The look has to last all day." ([05:00])

• Adaptable Wardrobe: She explains her strategy of carrying essential items, such as a tote bag with her computer and makeup, and keeping a change of clothes in her trainers for seamless transitions throughout the day.

  "I actually have a change of clothes that I keep at my trainers. So if I need a heel or something, I have shoes that can go with a little bit of everything at the desk." ([05:12])

The Philosophy Behind Wardrobe Choices

The conversation shifts to Nikki's disdain for capsule wardrobes and her belief in a more fluid approach to fashion.

• Rejecting Prescriptive Fashion: Nikki argues against the rigidity of capsule wardrobes, advocating instead for a personalized collection of key pieces that reflect one's unique style.

  "I hate sitting in cars in New York City... If I can take the train anywhere, I'm in the train. So if I can take the train anywhere, ribbons to be in the train." ([04:43])

• Embracing Variety: She believes in continuously evolving one's wardrobe, allowing for spontaneity and self-expression rather than limiting oneself to a set number of pieces.

  "I need to dress for me. And I need to dress for what my actual life is like. I can like, lick a sneaker or cute sneakers, like never a flip flop or a sandal outside." ([06:28])

Embracing Color and Personal Style

Nikki shares her approach to incorporating color and patterns into her wardrobe, emphasizing ease and impact.

• Color as Impact: She advocates for integrating color into everyday wear as a means to elevate simple outfits.

  "Color is the easiest way to make an impact. Instead of wearing a white button down, wear a purple one or a blue one." ([08:30])

• Stripes and Prints: Nikki highlights her preference for stripes over florals, viewing them as a versatile and polished choice.

  "I'm a big striped girl. I think it's a really great way to look very polished." ([09:39])

The Role of Accessories, Especially Watches

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Nikki's love for watches, detailing her collection and the role accessories play in completing her look.

• Watches as Finishing Touches: Nikki sees watches as essential elements that add sophistication to her outfits.

  "I've always liked watches. I've always felt like they're sort of like an exclamation point or a finishing touch, a period on the end of your look." ([32:52])

• Favorite Brands and Wishlist: She mentions her admiration for brands like Cartier and TAG Heuer, sharing her current watch aspirations.

  "I'm just coming off of Watches and Wonders, which is the trade fair in Geneva... I want the TAG Heuer F1 and the Cartier Santos Dumas." ([35:06])

Nikki Ogunnaike's Journey in Fashion Media

Liv and Nikki delve into Nikki's illustrious career path, offering insights into what it takes to rise to the top in the competitive world of fashion journalism.

• Career Progression: Nikki recounts her start as an intern at Vanity Fair and her ascent through various magazines to her current role at Marie Claire.

  "I moved to New York without a job. My parents fronted me six months of rent. I worked at Vanity Fair as my first job out of school in the fashion closet." ([21:37])

• Stamina and Resilience: She attributes her success to her stamina and ability to tackle challenges head-on, likening her approach to her running habits.

  "If you can push yourself there, then you can probably push yourself in this job. You just have to stick to it." ([23:22])

The State of Print Media and Digital Integration

Nikki discusses her views on the evolving media landscape, particularly the relationship between traditional print media and new digital platforms like Substack.

• Support for Traditional Media: She underscores the importance of supporting journalism by subscribing to reputable publications.

  "It's important to support and believe in media, especially in our current Democratic state. Please pay for the magazine." ([26:53])

• Embracing Digital Platforms: While acknowledging the rise of Substack, Nikki emphasizes collaboration rather than competition, inviting talented writers to contribute to Marie Claire.

  "She had a very clear idea of her value add to Marie Claire. You have to be cognizant of the place you are pitching to and the value add of the story." ([29:15])

Insights on the 2025 Met Gala

As the episode airs on Met Monday, Liv and Nikki dedicate a substantial portion of their conversation to the upcoming 2025 Met Gala, exploring theme expectations and the intersection of men's and women's fashion.

• Theme and Expectations: The 2025 Met Gala centers around tailoring and black dandyism, inspired by Monica L. Miller's book Slaves to Fashion. Nikki anticipates a prevalence of suiting and the incorporation of black designers.

  "We will see a lot of suiting, but also a lot of black designers... something from Sergio Hudson would be great." ([39:34])

• Menswear's Growing Influence: Nikki observes the increasing influence of menswear in mainstream fashion, pointing to figures like Lewis Hamilton and the evolving perception of men's fashion.

  "You're seeing guys in different types of men getting into fashion right now, which gives license to the average guy to care a little bit more about the sweater he's wearing." ([38:43])

• Self-Expression and Accessories: She highlights how black dandyism allows for significant self-expression through tailored pieces and accessories like brooches and pocket watches.

  "There will be a lot of great accessories like watches, brooches, top hats... a lot of the finishing touches on menswear style." ([40:25])

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with reflections on the excitement surrounding current developments in the fashion space and an affirmation of Nikki's passion for her role at Marie Claire.

• Future Excitement: Nikki expresses enthusiasm for the settling of creative directors in fashion houses and the upcoming seasons of design innovation.

  "There's so much to be excited about. September will be fun for sure." ([42:06])

• Closing Remarks: Liv thanks Nikki for her insightful contributions, highlighting the valuable perspectives she brought to the discussion.

  "Thank you so much for coming on. I'm so happy I got to have you on the show." ([42:32])

Notable Quotes:

• "I'm dressing for whatever the day may throw at me..." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([05:00])
• "Color is the easiest way to make an impact." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([08:30])
• "I hate sitting in cars in New York City..." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([04:43])
• "If you can push yourself there, then you can probably push yourself in this job." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([23:22])
• "It's important to support and believe in media..." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([26:53])
• "We will see a lot of suiting, but also a lot of black designers..." — Nikki Ogunnaike ([39:34])

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Nikki Ogunnaike's approach to fashion, her influential role in media, and her anticipation for the 2025 Met Gala, making it a must-listen for fashion enthusiasts seeking expert insights and inspiration.