Off Duty With AK Brown

AK Brown – The Fashion Connector is stepping away from the titles and clocking out for the day. Off Duty with AK Brown is her space to unwind, grab a drink, and talk about fashion, culture, and life in her own way. From red carpet breakdowns and fashion week chaos to dating stories, pop culture moments, and messy work drama, nothing is off the table. Some episodes feature AK solo, while others bring in guests for candid conversations over dinner or drinks. Every episode feels like catching up with your funniest, bluntest friend after a long day. For fashion hot takes, insider tea, and plenty of laughs, tune in to Off Duty with AK Brown.

My Take on Fashion's Latest Headlines & WTF Happened At NYFW?! 09/19/2025

My Take on Fashion's Latest Headlines & WTF Happened At NYFW?! Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Today I’m breaking down the latest fashion headlines and giving my take on New York Fashion Week. From Jaden Smith being named the first men’s creative director for Christian Louboutin and the conversation of whether celebrities deserve these roles or should stick to being brand ambassadors, to SZA stepping into creative direction with Vans, KBB by Kahlana’s launch at Target in the middle of their DEI fallout, Chloe Malle stepping in as Vogue’s new editor while Vogue Runway moves behind a paywall, and DSW’s attempt to rebrand in a struggling retail climate. I’m also talking about what it really means for influencers to become editors, and why I had to make the decision not to attend NYFW this season. Key Moments: Jaden Smith’s appointment at Louboutin and if celebrity creative directors are truly qualified SZA taking on creative direction at Vans KBB by Kahlana’s Target launch and the conflict of supporting Black designers through problematic retailers Chloe Malle as Vogue’s new editor and the shift toward quarterly issues Vogue Runway moving behind a paywall and the backlash around access to fashion coverage DSW’s rebrand with new stores, logo, and in-store customization in a collapsing retail climate The ongoing debate of influencers becoming editors and whether they are actually doing the work Why I chose not to attend New York Fashion Week this season and what that says about fashion’s accessibility Next Week Sneak Peek: I’ll be diving into Project Runway plus a roundup of the latest fashion news. Stay Connected: Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: Subscribe on YouTube: Grab the Intro Into Fashion PR Workbook: Be a guest on the show: Become a 2025 client or mentee: Follow me on Instagram: Website: Read Advisor. Magazine: /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/38284300

Overqualified, Underpaid & Over It — My Fashion Industry Reality + Why You’re Not Getting Featured From A Fashion Editor's POV 08/15/2025

Ami Colé, AI Models & How to Pitch Yourself in Fashion - The 2025 Guide 08/01/2025

Funding Black Fashion Media is Non-Negotiable 07/11/2025

Funding Black Fashion Media is Non-Negotiable Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! In this episode, I’m talking about why funding Black media is absolutely non-negotiable. I’m unpacking how major fashion magazines rely heavily on advertising dollars—with over half of some issues filled with ads. But flip through those pages, and you’ll barely see Black-owned brands featured—or even Black faces in many of the campaigns. While I get that advertising keeps publications running, the reality is most Black brands don’t have $50,000 or $100,000 to spend on a single ad page. This lack of access fuels a bigger systemic problem: fewer opportunities for visibility, growth, and recognition in the industry. That’s why I created the Black Fashion Media Equity Program—to offer free ad space to Black fashion and beauty brands. Because if we want true representation and equity in fashion, we need to make sure Black media has the resources to thrive and amplify our stories. Key Moments: Breaking down how much ad space takes up in big fashion magazines—and who actually gets those ads The financial hurdles Black fashion entrepreneurs face trying to afford premium ad rates How the lack of ad dollars ties into broader systemic issues around visibility and opportunity An inside look at the Black Fashion Media Equity Program and its mission Why funding Black media platforms is essential for long-term change in the fashion industry Next Week Sneak Peek:Next episode, I’m diving into Steve Madden’s viral interview, recapping Paris Men’s Fashion Week, and sharing what it’s really like running a fashion magazine as a Black editor. Plus—where are we supposed to shop now that these brands keep acting up? 🔗 Stay Connected: Apply for The Black Fashion Media Equity Program: Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: Follow me everywhere: Website: Read Advisor. Magazine: /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/37378590

Black Woman Realities in the Midwest Fashion Industry, How to Plan Social Media Content as a Fashionpreneur, and This Week’s Fashion Rant 07/04/2025

Black Woman Realities in the Midwest Fashion Industry, How to Plan Social Media Content as a Fashionpreneur, and This Week’s Fashion Rant Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! In this episode, I’m sharing my experiences as a Black woman working in fashion in the Midwest—the lack of opportunities, the microaggressions, and why I’m not here to play the token role for anybody. I’m also walking you through how to plan out your social media content as a fashionpreneur. I’m talking brand pillars, figuring out what your audience wants to see, and how to use tools like ChatGPT without losing your own voice. And for AK’s Fashion Rant of the Week, I’ve got thoughts on Anna Wintour stepping down, Vogue’s messiness, Steve Madden’s viral moment, and why the fashion industry needs to get back to the actual plot of fashion. Key Moments: Talking about why the Midwest can be a tough place for Black women in fashion The realities of microaggressions, lack of opportunities, and why I refuse to be the token Black voice Why I left corporate and built my own lane The mess around Anna Wintour leaving Vogue and my thoughts on who Vogue even speaks to these days Steve Madden’s viral interview and why people are loving his transparency Step-by-step on how to plan a social media content calendar as a fashionpreneur The importance of brand pillars and audience insights Using ChatGPT the right way—and why it’s a tool, not a replacement for your own voice My thoughts on industry politics, crabs-in-a-barrel mentality, and protecting your peace as a creative Related Past Episodes: Branding & Social Media Strategy for Fashionpreneurs Pt. 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-haute-guide/id1661230412?i=1000690044168 Shoutouts + Special Mentions: — Check out their Patreon for Steve Madden’s full episode — For the skirt that helped blow up my Instagram reach (here's the link to my viral reel: ) Other publications worth reading: , , and indie platforms that dig deeper than Vogue My social media content caledar for AK Brown: My social media content calendar template — included below if you’re ready to organize your content: ChatGPT prompt templates — included below to help you plan your own calendar: ‘Help me create a 3-month fashion content calendar with Reels, carousels, fashion commentary, SEO titles, captions, alt text, and hashtags. My pillars are [e.g. fashion education, personal style]. My audience is [e.g. Black women in fashion]. My vibe is [e.g. professional, sassy]. I want to post [e.g. 3–5 times per week].’ Next Week Sneak Peek:Next episode, I’m diving deeper into Steve Madden’s podcast, Paris Men’s Fashion Week recaps, and sharing what it’s really like running a fashion magazine. Plus—where are we supposed to shop now that brands keep acting up? 🔗 Stay Connected: Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: Follow me everywhere: Website: Read Advisor. Magazine: 💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway! /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/37286240

The Haute Guide – Season 2 is Here 06/17/2025

2025 Met Gala Recap – The Art & Missed Opportunities of Black Dandyism 05/09/2025

2025 Met Gala Recap – The Art & Missed Opportunities of Black Dandyism Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! In this episode, I'm diving deep into the 2025 Met Gala, unpacking this year's compelling theme: "Superfine", inspired by Monica Miller's exploration of Black dandyism. Join me as I candidly break down the hits, misses, and everything in between on fashion's biggest night. Here's what's inside: My honest thoughts on who beautifully embodied the "Superfine" theme—including Janelle Monae’s stunning "time traveler" concept, Tracee Ellis Ross’s bold historical homage, and André 3000’s brilliant nod to traveling musicians. The styling missteps that left me scratching my head: Zendaya’s unexpected duplicate look and Megan Thee Stallion's disappointing Michael Kors dress. A personal glimpse into my own "Superfine" look for a Met Gala viewing party at the Ritz Carlton, complete with a custom floor-length durag, embracing Black dandyism with my unique twist. Reflections on how the fashion industry at large missed a prime opportunity to truly honor and elevate Black culture, creativity, and historical significance. Plus, I'm sharing a heartfelt update about my recent health journey, why I've been away from fashion events, and how this Met Gala reignited my passion and purpose. Key Moments: Best Dressed Spotlight: Janelle Monae, Tracee Ellis Ross, Tessa Thompson, Ava DuVernay, Kerry Washington. Critical Takeaways: Why Law Roach dropped the ball with Zendaya, and how Megan Thee Stallion and Coco Jones missed opportunities to solidify their personal brands. Personal Connection: The deeper meaning behind my own dandy-inspired look and how it marked my return to the fashion scene. Shoutouts + Special Mentions: Naheemah's Tracee Ellis Ross Deep Dive: My current Met Gala Deep Dives & Personal Style Moments: 🔗 Stay Connected: Subscribe to my YouTube! 🎥 Grab The Intro Into Fashion Workbook: Wanna be a guest on the show? Apply here: Want to be a 2025 client or mentee? Apply here: Follow me everywhere: Website: Read Advisor. Magazine: 💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway! /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/36509885

5 Years Fired and Flourishing: How I’m Teaching Y’all How to REALLY Start in Fashion (2025 Version) 04/25/2025

The Truth About Fashion Business Finances + A Conversation with Novo Platform CEO Michael Rangel 02/14/2025

The Truth About Fashion Business Finances + A Conversation with Novo Platform CEO Michael Rangel Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Today we’re diving deep into financial literacy for fashionpreneurs—a topic we often avoid but need to master. In this episode, I break down the financial struggles of running a fashion business, share my own experiences from starting out as a blogger to building multiple brands, and discuss the biggest financial mistakes fashion entrepreneurs make. PLUS, I have a special guest—Michael Rangel, Founder & CEO of Novo.Co, which is my business bank platform of choice. We discuss how fintech is changing the game for small business owners and how you can take control of your business finances. ✨ Mentioned in This Episode: 💻 Novo Platform – My go-to for small business banking. Sign up here: 🛍 Jance Chartae – E-commerce & boutique expert. Follow her for fashion biz tips! 💡 ChatGPT & AI – How I use AI to optimize business strategy 🎯 Your Homework: 📌 Audit your finances: Are you separating personal & business expenses? 📌 Research business banking options: If you don’t have a business bank, start with Novo 📌 Check your pricing strategy: Are you actually making a profit? 📌 Plan for the future: Look at your cash flow, taxes, and funding option 🔗 Stay Connected: 📲 Follow me on Instagram: 🌐 Website: 📖 Read Advisor. Magazine: 💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway! *Novo is a fintech company; not a bank. Deposit account services provided by Middlesex Federal Savings, F.A., Member FDIC. Physical debit cards issued by Middlesex Federal Savings or Patriot Bank, N.A., Member FDIC; virtual cards issued by Patriot Bank, pursuant to licenses from Mastercard® International Incorporated. Mastercard can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/35289185

Branding & Social Media Strategy for Fashionpreneurs Pt. 1 02/07/2025

Branding & Social Media Strategy for Fashionpreneurs Pt. 1 Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! After a brief hiatus (sorry yall!), I’m back with an insightful episode about branding, social media strategy, and how to refine your brand for success. I break down my own brand refresh process, how I’m reworking my content strategy, and how you can do the same for your fashion business, whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or industry professional. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why I took a break and what I’ve been working on My personal branding overhaul and why it’s necessary for 2025 The role of social media in business growth and how I’m approaching my strategy How to use ChatGPT and AI for branding and content planning Breaking down audience personas and why knowing your audience is key My content pillars and how they shape my strategy Homework: Steps to analyze your brand, define your audience, and track your content strategy 🔑 Key Takeaways: ✅ A deep dive into branding and refining your social media strategy ✅ The importance of visuals and working with a branding expert (shoutout to Joan Fisher!) ✅ Using ChatGPT for content creation and branding insights ✅ Creating an audience persona to tailor your content and engagement strategies ✅ A step-by-step approach to developing a strong brand and content strategy 📝 Homework Assignment: Follow Joan Fisher (Saint Louis) – An absolute visual powerhouse! If you're in St. Louis or beyond, I highly recommend working with her for branding & editorial photography. You can book her whether you’re local or willing to fly her out! Follow Joan & connect: Identify your brand pillars Define your audience personas and where they show up online Analyze your social media stats (followers, engagement, CTRs, etc.) Start building out your content strategy ✨ Upcoming Episodes: 🔜 Special guest interview with Michael Rangel, CEO of Novo Bank! We’ll be discussing financial strategies for fashion entrepreneurs—don’t miss it! (If you want to go ahead and apply for an account, you can do so here!: 🔗 Stay Connected: 📲 Follow me on Instagram: 🌐 Website: 📖 Read Advisor. Magazine: 💬 Love the episode? Leave a review and tag me on Instagram with your biggest takeaway! /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/35193020

I Majored In My Hobby of Fashion & Made It Work, Can You Do The Same? 07/19/2024

I Think I Found My Why In Fashion Again - Let's Talk About It 07/12/2024

SHEIN Just Acquiring Everything, Amazon Closes Its Style Stores, & My Icks About Shopping Being Plus Sized 11/10/2023

My Reviews on H&M x Rabanne, KHY, Juliette Foxx x The Drop & How to Build A Fashion Brand 11/10/2023

Why Is It So Hard Being A Fashionpreneur? 10/28/2023

Not Kandi Doing She by Sheree Better, Pyer Moss x Canada Goose, UO HBCU Cohort, & How to Dress Better & With More Intention 10/20/2023

Who Looked Good At The BET Hip Hop Awards & Conversations With Victoria Paulsen! 10/06/2023

How to Start & Fashion Blog & How to Pitch Yourself for Fashion Week 09/29/2023

VMA's Red Carpet, Why Sexyy Red's Look Shouldn't Change, & The Online Toolkit for Fashion Stylists 09/16/2023

Good American x GKJ, Can ChatGPT Really Predict Fashion Trends, & How to Secure Speaking Gigs As A Fashion Expert 09/08/2023

Why You're Too Immature To Have Your Own Personal Fashion Brand 09/01/2023

Your Guide to Attending MAGIC For Boutique Owners & Fashion Stylists! 07/22/2023

Your Guide to Attending MAGIC For Boutique Owners & Fashion Stylists! Hey fashion friends! Welcome back to another episode of The Haute Guide! Today we're in full planning mode! If you don't know about MAGIC, then you're missing out! In our segment we break down tips for attending MAGIC as a boutique owner/buyer, as a stylist, and for other fashion experts and enthusiasts! Tips for Attending MAGIC As A Buyer Conduct trend research and a customer profile analysis before heading to the show, so you know what you are looking for Create an open to buy (OTB) budget so you know how much money you have to spend Do preliminary research on the vendors that will be attending, which you can find the complete list Make a plan for all of the days you will be at MAGIC (hopefully you can stay for all 3). Plan out where you're going to go and so you can maximize all of your time Download Whatsapp as it's the more common communication tool with the vendors, as well as have a QR code for your business information and if you want, physical business cards Tips for Attending MAGIC As A Stylist Conduct trend research and a customer profile analysis of the clients you style or the projects you normally style for before heading to the show, so you know what you are looking for Create an open to buy (OTB) budget so you know how much money you have to spend (your budget will most likely be lower than a buyer or boutique owner) Do preliminary research on the vendors that will be attending, which you can find the complete list Make a plan for all of the days you will be at MAGIC (hopefully you can stay for all 3). Plan out where you're going to go and so you can maximize all of your time Download Whatsapp as it's the more common communication tool with the vendors, as well as have a QR code for your business information and if you want, physical business cards Tips for Attending MAGIC As A Fashion Enthusiast Make a plan for the educational sessions and experience activations, which you can find And lastly, wear something cute yet chic, and most importantly, HAVE FUN! I'll be back with more MAGIC content within the next two weeks. Thank you for tuning in to this week's episode of The Haute Guide. Don't forget: Subscribe Rate 5 stars Share Follow me everywhere: Website ➭ Facebook ➭ Twitter ➭ Instagrams ➭ /episode/index/show/5b9fda1f-e32d-4661-8a74-018ea72fd843/id/27538359

Episode 39: Hi Barbie! - My Full Review of Barbiemania 07/21/2023

Episode 38: SHEIN Caught A RICO - What Does That Mean For Fast Fashion? 07/19/2023

Episode 37: Conversations With Lucy of Never Fully Dressed 07/13/2023

Episode 36: Let's Talk About The Real Business of Fashion 06/29/2023

Episode 35: Rihanna Steps Down From Savage Fenty, Lanvin's Creative Lab, & Students On The Paris Runway 06/27/2023

Episode 34: Let's Talk About Louis Vuitton's SS24 Runway 06/24/2023

Episode 33: Conversations With Jeanelly & Saige of Texas Fashion Industry Initiative/Texas Fashion Week™! 06/22/2023

Episode 32: Why You Should Start Your Own Fashion Podcast! 06/11/2023

Off Duty With AK Brown

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