As I write this editor’s letter, I am in the middle of Nowruz preparations—otherwise known as Persian New Year. The light that emerges around the spring equinox is incredibly vibrant—and it’s not talked about as much as it should be. And no matter how long it might take for our winter layers to be replaced by our favourite trench coats and transitional wear, there’s a strong feeling that we’re closing a chapter and starting anew. It’s a great time to determine what energy we want to carry into the new season, and what we want to leave behind.
This year, I’ve thought a lot about who and what has felt creatively fresh—whether that’s in fashion, film, design, beauty, or beyond. And the individual who ultimately came to mind became the catalyst for our spring issue: “The Innovator Issue”.
Having been a long-time admirer of Bella Freud’s fashion label (and personal style), I was so thrilled when she launched her podcast Fashion Neurosis. Among the plethora of podcasts available, Freud has managed to be in a league of her own—something that feels virtually impossible to achieve these days. To put it simply: almost everything’s already been done.
Since its debut last fall—with guest Rick Owens—Freud has hosted the likes of Cate Blanchett, Julianne Moore, and Jonathan Anderson (among many more). Leaning into her lineage, the video format of the show is cheekily reminiscent of a psychotherapy session.
Whether listening to the podcast with or without its companion video, one is instantly pulled in by the intimacy of the conversations, and the guests’ vulnerability. This is not a platform for them to necessarily promote a project. Instead, it gently invites them and the listener into an engaging conversation with Freud on a host of topics that feel earnest, relatable, and human.
This sincerity, at times, feels scarce in a business that many view as superficial. Similarly, creativity is too quickly associated with a tangible item. Where Freud succeeds is reintroducing listeners to a manner of conversation that is radical in its own right: active and intentional listening, and space for humanity to break through, no matter the subject.
It’s fresh perspectives like Freud’s that renew my admiration (and I hope yours) of what’s possible creatively. It reaffirms that innovation thrives and can take shape in many ways, and that we are most successful when we have a sincere intention, and are, above all, radically authentic.
