The Fashion Geek Podcast

Carl Goldberg is a renowned custom shirt maker who began his business, CEGO Custom Shirtmakers, in 1983. With over 30 years of experience in creating bespoke shirts, Carl has crafted garments for Broadway productions, Hollywood films, and discerning clients around the world. His expertise in hand-cutting and sewing, along with his understanding of complex fabrics and patterns, makes him the perfect guest to delve into the art and science of custom shirtmaking.
In this episode, you'll learn,
- The intricate process and timelines involved in creating a custom shirt from scratch.
- How collaborations with design students from prestigious fashion schools like FIT and Parsons enhance the garment-making process.
- The unique challenges and solutions involved in working with vintage fabrics and executing rush orders for the entertainment industry.

Reginald Ferguson is a men's fashion consultant born and raised in New York City, with a deep passion for helping men become fashion confident. His extensive experience in the fashion industry, coupled with his unique perspective as a New Yorker, makes him the perfect person to guide us through the history and cultural significance of the Nike Cortez.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The historical evolution of the Nike Cortez, from a track runner's shoe to a cultural icon.
- The intimate relationship between the Nike Cortez and the hip-hop culture of the 1980s.
- How a classic sneaker can transcend subcultures and maintain its relevance in contemporary fashion.

Gil Vazquez is the president and executive director of the Keith Haring Foundation, dedicated to preserving and continuing Keith Haring's legacy. Growing up in Spanish Harlem and transferring to Nevin Street for high school, Gil's journey has been deeply influenced by Haring's artwork and ethos. As someone who witnessed the transformative power of Haring's chalk drawings in New York, Gil's insights into street art and fashion make him the perfect guest to discuss Haring's lasting impact on art, fashion, and society.
In this episode, you'll learn,
- How Keith Haring's work has bridged the gap between street art and fashion, influencing brands like Carhartt and Timberland.
- The strategies and considerations behind licensing Haring's artwork, ensuring collaborations remain true to his legacy.
- The profound impact Keith Haring has had on hip hop culture, exemplified through partnerships with icons like Run DMC and Public Enemy's Chuck D.

Will Roberson is a fashion designer from Harlem, renowned for his unique and custom hat designs that have caught the attention of celebrities like Michael J. Fox, Brooke Shields, and the late Alpo Martinez AKA Paid in Full. With a background in the music business and a seamless transition into fashion, Will has made a name for himself as a game-changer in the industry, particularly known for his luxurious and one-of-a-kind creations.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- How Will transitioned from creating elaborate army coats to becoming a celebrated hat designer.
- The significance of Harlem culture in shaping Will's fashion sense and brand.
- Key advice on how to elevate your personal style and make unforgettable fashion statements.

Alec Zaballero is an esteemed architect and partner at TPG Architecture, with a profound interest in watches. Alec’s passion extends to his role in the Harvard Club Watch Collectors and Enthusiasts, where he leads a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. With his comprehensive knowledge of menswear and horology, Alec is uniquely positioned to discuss the intersection of fashion and watch culture, making him the ideal guest to explore the relevancy of wearing a watch in the 21st century.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The significance of watches beyond telling time and their role as personal totems and cultural symbols.
- Insights into the burgeoning world of micro watch brands and how they are shaping the current landscape of horology.
- How to use fashion and accessories to convey the right signals about oneself and combat common age-related assumptions.
So do you own a watch? Do you integrate watches into your own fashion? What type of watches do you like? Leave a comment below.

Simon Brooking is a seasoned expert in the world of Scotch whisky, serving as a senior ambassador of Scotch heritage for Beam Suntory. With his extensive knowledge and passion for Scotch, Simon has become a respected authority in the whisky industry, showcasing his expertise through engaging discussions and educational experiences.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The intricate processes involved in the maturation of Laphroaig whiskey, including the unique cask types used and the flavor profiles they impart.
- The significance of regional influences on whiskey production, such as the impact of Islay's peat and seaweed on the smoky and maritime qualities of Scotch whisky.
- The art of whiskey tasting and appreciation, including tips on nosing, tasting, and pairing whiskey with regional foods for a heightened sensory experience.

Joseph Genuardi is a master tailor with decades of experience in creating bespoke suits using traditional, bench-made techniques at his tailor shop, Genuardi Tailor, in Hoboken, New Jersey. His dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail set him apart in the world of tailored clothing.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The differences between bespoke, made-to-measure, and store-bought clothing
- The importance of handmade clothing and the craftsmanship involved in creating bespoke suits
- The significance of preserving traditional standards of the tailoring craft amid the diluted language and misappropriation of terms in the clothing industry

Ethan Wong is a vintage menswear enthusiast and the founder of Style and Direction, a platform dedicated to exploring classic menswear and vintage clothing. With his expertise in sourcing and upgrading vintage items, Ethan has become a leading voice in the vintage fashion community, sharing insights on how men can elevate their style with timeless pieces.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The appeal of vintage clothing for men in a fast-paced world
- Tips for navigating and finding high-quality vintage items in New York and LA
- Strategies for being an informed and economical consumer when shopping for vintage clothing

Timothy Hanchett is a bespoke apprentice and made-to-measure specialist at Induere TO in Toronto, Canada. With around 2 years of experience in the industry, Timothy has honed his skills to provide high-quality, customized garments for his clients. His dedication to continuous improvement and passion for creating unique pieces make him a credible expert in the world of tailoring.
In this episode, you will learn:
- The importance of personal style and how made-to-measure garments can help you achieve a better fit and showcase your individuality.
- The process of accurate measurements and how they play a crucial role in creating custom garments that fit perfectly.
- Red flags to look out for when choosing a made-to-measure specialist, including signs of lack of training or expertise in the field.

Elizabeth Way is an associate curator at the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology and a seasoned fashion historian with extensive knowledge of the intersection between hip hop culture and streetwear. Her work in curating exhibitions showcases her expertise in the evolution of fashion influenced by urban and hip hop styles.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The significant influence of Dapper Dan on bridging European luxury fashion with American sportswear, leading to the creation of streetwear.
- The curation process of over 150 objects from 50 lenders for the exhibition, highlighting influential hip hop fashion pieces and challenging decisions to narrow down the selection.
- The evolution of sneakers as a fashion staple, particularly in hip hop culture, and their association with African American culture and streetwear fashion.

Host Reginald Ferguson is joined by guest Glenn Gilliam to discuss the Arthur Ashe brand, a spinoff of Rowing Blazers (created by Jack Carlson). They critique the multiple logos and typefaces associated with the Arthur Ashe brand, suggesting a more powerful and cohesive brand statement.
Glenn Gilliam is a brand strategist with a passion for promoting the stories of African American athletes like Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe. With years of experience attending the US Open and supporting documentaries, Glenn brings a unique perspective on the fashion industry and the representation of black athletes.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The history and significance of the Arthur Ashe brand and its connection to the tennis legend himself.
- The challenges and opportunities in honoring the legacies of Arthur Ashe and Althea Gibson through fashion.
- Insights into the branding strategies and design choices that shape the Arthur Ashe brand's identity.

Our fly host Reginald Ferguson, the owner of New York Fashion Geek, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. With over a decade in the fashion consulting world, Reginald has built a reputation for his deep understanding of fabrics, styles, and fashion history. His expertise ensures that every topic he discusses is thoroughly researched and passionately presented, making him the ideal person to give us an in-depth look at the wonderful world of Seersucker.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The origins and historical significance of Seersucker fabric, including its journey from Persian roots to American workwear and military uniforms.
- The unique properties of Seersucker, such as its breathability and the way it doesn’t lay directly on the skin, making it ideal for hot weather.
- Personal anecdotes and lessons about embracing styles that resonate over time, including a heartfelt story of how Reginald’s late grandmother influenced his appreciation for Seersucker.