ReLiving Single Podcast: Episode Summary – "Fashion Foreword featuring Kim Fields & Ceci"
Release Date: June 4, 2025
Welcome to a detailed summary of the "Fashion Foreword" episode from the official unofficial ReLiving Single rewatch podcast. Hosted by sitcom legends Erika Alexander and Kim Coles, this episode delves deep into the iconic fashion of the beloved 90s show Living Single, featuring special guests Kim Fields and costume designer Ceci. The conversation explores behind-the-scenes stories, character styles, and the lasting impact of the show's wardrobe on television and culture.
1. Introduction to the Episode
Erika Alexander and Kim Coles kick off the episode by reminiscing about their wardrobe experiences on Living Single. They discuss the diverse and sometimes challenging outfits they donned, highlighting the creativity and dedication required to bring their characters to life.
Notable Quote:
- Erika Alexander [00:12]: “I had a melange of fashion. I had hats and florals and polka dots and a vest with moon on it for no particular reason... it was a lot. And I would sometimes get a headache, but who's complaining?”
2. Hosts Reflect on On-Set Fashion Challenges
The hosts humorously recount the physical discomforts and wardrobe mishaps they endured, such as elaborate hats and hairpieces. They also touch on the show's courage to showcase natural beauty despite network restrictions.
Notable Quotes:
- Kim Coles [00:42]: “I had the nipples of life, Kim.”
- Erika Alexander [08:19]: “I was always in my head about it. So I was never comfortable in Regine's skin.”
3. Special Guest: Kim Fields on Character Styles
Kim Fields joins the conversation to discuss the fashion dynamics within the show. She praises the authenticity and individuality each character's wardrobe brought to the ensemble cast, emphasizing how costumes helped define personalities and storylines.
Notable Quote:
- Kim Fields [02:48]: “What's worse is we actually texted each other last night, and I said, hey, guys, is it dressy or what? And you were like, oh, it's casual dressy. If that's a thing.”
4. Iconic Episodes and Signature Looks
Erika, Kim Coles, and Kim Fields delve into specific episodes that showcased standout fashion moments. They reminisce about memorable outfits, such as Regine’s dramatic transformations in quick-change booths and the show's tribute to 60s and African-inspired designs.
Notable Quotes:
- Erika Alexander [05:16]: “The power suits, all of that stuff. And then when she wanted to use it as a weapon and ammunition, they would put in the sexy dresses.”
- Kim Coles [11:12]: “It was a whole February celebrating love in... it was so clean and cultural.”
5. Behind the Seams: Interview with Costume Designer Ceci
The episode transitions to an in-depth interview with Ceci, the mastermind behind Living Single's diverse and vibrant wardrobe. Ceci shares her passion for fashion, influenced by her Panamanian heritage and her family's creativity despite limited resources.
Notable Quotes:
- Ceci [33:32]: “I learned how to sew at the age of four... making my clothes, I did my homework, and then went to our sewing room.”
- Erika Alexander [36:12]: “I have learned from you the art of translating the character to the garments that they wear.”
6. The Art of Costume Design
Ceci elaborates on her design philosophy, focusing on individuality, cultural representation, and practicality. She discusses the challenges of working within budget constraints, promoting diversity in costume design, and the importance of upcycling and sustainability in fashion.
Notable Quotes:
- Ceci [37:21]: “So when I do that for each character, there's not gonna be a lot of cross-pollination.”
- Ceci [58:06]: “Fast fashion has really done a number to the... we're killing the planet. Yeah, we are killing it.”
7. Influencing 90s Fashion and Beyond
The discussion highlights how Living Single set fashion trends in the 90s, with costumes that transcended the screen to become cultural icons. Ceci reflects on the show's legacy in shaping perceptions of black beauty standards and empowering diverse body types through thoughtful wardrobe choices.
Notable Quotes:
- Ceci [53:46]: “The visual lexicon of what it meant to look like a black attorney or even now, if a costume designer wants to research, they're going to be looking at my stuff.”
- Erika Alexander [42:58]: “Your whole life or even the standards of beauty... I can celebrate everyone's size and maximize everybody's size.”
8. Sustainability and Ethical Fashion Choices
Ceci passionately advocates for sustainable fashion practices, emphasizing upcycling and thrift shopping as alternatives to fast fashion. She underscores the environmental and ethical implications of the fashion industry and encourages listeners to make mindful clothing choices.
Notable Quotes:
- Ceci [55:37]: “The thrill of the hunt... it's really like a high when you just go in there and it seems like you can't find nothing.”
- Ceci [56:19]: “Fast fashion has really done a number to the... we're killing the planet.”
9. Q&A Session with Listeners
In the latter part of the episode, the hosts and Ceci address listener questions about current designers they admire, the importance of supporting black designers, and how they would approach costume design with unlimited resources.
Notable Quotes:
- Ceci [63:20]: “I am not, you know, a label whore. And I could care less about the designer name now. I do care about promoting black designers for sure.”
- Ceci [65:11]: “I would fly to other countries and get textiles from all over Africa, Indonesia, Marrakech, Egypt, Dubai.”
10. Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments
Erika and Kim Coles wrap up the episode by expressing gratitude to Ceci for her invaluable contributions to Living Single. They reflect on the enduring legacy of the show's fashion and its influence on both the industry and audiences.
Notable Quotes:
- Erika Alexander [62:31]: “Thanks to wardrobe. Cecy.”
- Kim Coles [66:41]: “And that's that... Thank you, Ceci.”
Conclusion
The "Fashion Foreword" episode of ReLiving Single offers an insightful exploration into the fashion world of Living Single, highlighting the creativity, challenges, and cultural significance behind the show's iconic wardrobes. Through engaging conversations with host stars and their talented costume designer, listeners gain a profound appreciation for the artistry that defined a generation and continues to inspire fashion and television today.
For more episodes and to engage with the ReLiving Single community, visit heartbeat.com.