In this magical season finale, Teddi and Melissa break open fortune cookies that deliver an identical, mysterious message about journeys and transformation - and suddenly find themselves experiencing life from each other's perspectives. What starts as a typical evening of Chinese takeout becomes an extraordinary exploration of aging, beauty, and self-perception as 71-year-old Teddi inhabits Melissa's 48-year-old body and discovers what it was like to be "hot as hell" in her prime, while Melissa gets a preview of life at 71. Through this supernatural lens, they dive deep into the psychology of how we see ourselves at different life stages and the anxieties that come with each decade.

This episode serves as both a fitting finale to Season 2 and a perfect encapsulation of what "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" is all about - using fashion and appearance as a gateway to discuss the deeper truths about confidence, identity, and the female experience across generations. As Teddi reminisces about turning heads in Manolo Blahniks and mini dresses while Melissa contemplates wrinkly knees and the wisdom that comes with age, listeners get a poignant and often hilarious look at the full spectrum of womanhood. Thank you for joining us for Season 2 - we'll be taking a summer break and returning this fall with Season 3, where we'll continue exploring the fascinating intersection of psychology, fashion, and the stories our clothes tell about who we are.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

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In this captivating episode, hosts Teddi Krochman and Melissa Pierce welcome Melissa Carter, owner and creative director of Kameo Vintage, a Chicago-area pre-loved styling brand. Melissa shares her fascinating journey from a fifth-grader who rejected conformity on Chicago's North Shore to becoming a vintage fashion expert mentored by legendary stylist Patricia Field. Her story reveals the profound psychological impact of using fashion as a form of self-expression and rebellion against homogeneous environments. From shopping 1940s capes for bar mitzvahs in seventh grade to curating vintage pieces in Patricia Field's Lower East Side store, Melissa demonstrates how authentic style can become a powerful tool for creating identity and building community.

The conversation delves deep into the psychology behind vintage fashion's current resurgence, exploring how people are increasingly seeking authentic human connections and meaningful stories behind their clothing choices. Melissa discusses her concept of "style integrity" as essential business etiquette and explains how different body types align with specific fashion eras, revealing the intimate relationship between personal identity and historical aesthetics. The hosts and guest examine society's current fashion malaise—from the overwhelming nature of fast fashion to the loss of personal styling relationships—and explore how vintage fashion might offer a path back to intentional dressing. Their discussion of the 1970s as the ultimate fashion era, celebrating diversity and challenging social norms, provides insight into how clothing choices reflect broader cultural movements and individual aspirations for self-expression.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Melissa @kameovintage

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Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.

In Episode 13, Melissa shares exciting news about completing her MBA thesis, which examines how the absence of strategic planning sets small creative businesses back, creates poor workforce feedback loops, and keeps fashion brands trapped in survival mode. Drawing from her personal experience working in the fashion industry, Melissa describes the challenges of operating in environments where leadership fails to establish clear key performance indicators and collaborative decision-making processes. Teddi, drawing from her own marketing background in healthcare, provides contrasting examples of effective leadership practices that involve team members in budget decisions and strategic direction.

The conversation expands to explore the broader challenges facing creative professionals in the fashion industry, with both hosts noting how many talented designers and stylists in Chicago must maintain other careers while pursuing their passion part-time. They discuss the particular difficulty of monetizing artistic pursuits without compromising creative integrity, sharing personal examples from their families, including Teddi's husband Ken, a talented artist who spent years in the insurance industry to support their family despite his artistic talents. The hosts reflect on how economic necessities often force creative individuals to put artistic aspirations on hold.

As the episode wraps up, Teddi and Melissa contemplate the value of pursuing one's passion, even if later in life, highlighting how constraints of time, energy, and financial responsibilities can postpone creative pursuits. Their candid conversation offers listeners insight into the business realities of creative industries while celebrating the persistent drive that keeps artists and fashion professionals pursuing their vision despite institutional and economic challenges.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠

In Episode 12, Teddi and Melissa welcome Erica Severson, a multifaceted professional whose career journey has taken her from military service to modeling and eventually to marketing, branding, and social media storytelling. Originally from Milwaukee and now a decade-long Chicago resident, Erica shares her unique perspective on how fashion functions as a form of communication, whether through a military uniform or a couture gown. The conversation explores her fascinating transition from military structure to creative expression, and how her diverse background influences her approach to brand building and personal style.

The discussion delves into Erica's involvement in Chicago's vibrant fashion community and how she leveraged her skills as a former drill sergeant and private investigator into learning to observe and strategize effective social media and PR strategy for both personal and business brands. As someone who navigates both the professional marketing world and the creative fashion scene, Erica offers practical advice for listeners looking to grow their digital presence authentically. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes her mission to uplift and empower others through mentoring, networking, and building meaningful brands that create lasting impact.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Erica @elite.erica_

Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.

In Episode 11, Teddi and Melissa dive into the emerging "Castle Core" trend that Pinterest has identified as a growing aesthetic pushing back against minimalism. The hosts explore how this medieval-inspired fashion movement—featuring armor elements, chainmail accessories, and medieval silhouettes—might reflect deeper societal anxieties and desires. Melissa theorizes that the trend represents people seeking a connection to pre-digital, pre-plastic times while simultaneously serving as psychological armor during uncertain times. Teddi notes her surprise at seeing friends like Nikki Street Style wearing actual armor pieces and Delphine (a Season 1 guest) wearing a hand-painted leather jacket resembling armor at recent Chicago fashion events.

The conversation expands to include observations about the return of fur on major fashion runways, with Teddi highlighting Fendi's recent collection featuring both shearling and faux fur. Drawing parallels to the 1930s, when society embraced glamour and luxury during difficult times, Teddi suggests today's fashion responds similarly to global uncertainty. She notes her recent purchases of a leopard faux fur coat and black faux fur shrug, unconsciously aligning with this trend toward a more expressive, luxurious dressing that contrasts with the previous "quiet luxury" aesthetic.

Throughout their discussion, Teddi and Melissa examine how fashion continues to function as both political expression and psychological comfort during turbulent times. Teddi concludes that focusing on personal style can be an act of resistance and self-care. As she puts it, "I'm going to dress for dinner. I'm going to make plans with my husband, and I'm going to get all dressed up. I'm not going to let that bastard bring me down."

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.

In Episode 10, Teddi and Melissa sit down with Sandra "Sandy" Silverman, author of "From Bullshit to Botox," for a candid exploration of beauty standards, aging, and fashion choices for women over 50. Sandy shares insights from her extensive personal journey with anti-aging interventions, having invested over $300,000 in cosmetic procedures and surgeries. The conversation takes a revealing turn as Sandy explains how her initial cosmetic procedures were driven by insecurity fostered by her soon-to-be ex-husband but how she has since reclaimed these choices as acts of personal empowerment and body autonomy.

The discussion moves beyond physical procedures to examine how fashion choices can either age a woman or help her appear more youthful. Sandy addresses perceived contradictions between her book's advice and her personal style choices, particularly regarding age-appropriate hemlines. Teddi and Melissa challenge Sandy on broader questions about beauty standards, exploring whether attractiveness is limited to youth or surgically enhanced maturity and how personal style evolves through different life stages.

Throughout this thought-provoking episode, the hosts and guest examine the complex psychological motivations behind anti-aging efforts, the cultural pressures facing women as they age, and how different fashion eras have influenced contemporary beauty ideals. Sandy's journey from making changes to please someone else to making choices that please herself offers listeners a powerful narrative about reclaiming personal agency in a youth-obsessed culture.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Sandra @sandralenasilverman

Join hosts senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce on "Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore?" as they examine fashion as a psychological and cultural phenomenon.

In Episode 9, Teddi shares her immersion in Chicago's vibrant fashion scene throughout February, beginning with model Maxi Black's cinematic fashion show "The Cinema" featuring vintage styling by Vintage Frills. The conversation explores the dramatic evolution of clothing sizes across decades, with Teddi noting how her vintage Size 14 jacket (purchased directly from the runway) fits her modern Size 4 frame perfectly. Teddi describes her glamorous ensemble for the event - a borrowed Leen Gundogdu (Kivanci) black velvet off-shoulder dress with crinoline, complemented with period-appropriate accessories reflecting her appreciation for the 1930s-50s fashion aesthetics.

The discussion continues with Teddi's attendance at the FGI Blue Jacket fundraiser for prostate cancer research, which was MC’d by AJ Johnson and featured collections from Chicago designers Dana Asady and Raj Patel of Karmic Couture. Teddi recounts her serendipitous find at the Galentine's Day shopping event at 900 North Michigan, where she discovered perfectly fitting statement pants at an Azeeza sample sale! The episode also covers her participation in a promotional video for the founder of Why Not Petites (and Season 1 guest), Britney Wittes's, upcoming fashion event during Chicago Art Week, directed by Abe and produced by Chau, plus Teddi's upcoming fashion calendar including visits to bridal designer Omaima Abbes (Omaima Couture), an Anine Bing opening styled by Rachel Penca, and the Curio Mixer event that both hosts will attend.

Between fashion discussions, Teddi and Melissa engage in their characteristic banter about social media presence, the challenges of facial recognition, and family dynamics, concluding with a positive health update from Teddi's oncologist and reflections on aging gracefully in the fashion world.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our host, senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they interview Chicago's best and brightest and ask hard-hitting questions about fashion and culture.

In Episode 8, Teddi and Melissa welcome the multifaceted Arabel, a tech CEO with a juris doctorate who has made remarkable contributions to the technology and fashion worlds. As President and CEO of AAR Tech, founder of the nonprofit Pivoting in Heels, creator of the global Runway Latinx fashion event, and host of the Chic Innovator podcast, Arabel brings a unique perspective on how seemingly disparate fields can intersect to create powerful platforms for women's empowerment.

The conversation explores Arabel's fascinating journey from tech executive to fashion community leader, revealing how her analytical background and business acumen have shaped her approach to creating inclusive spaces in the fashion world. Through Runway Latinx, she has built a globally recognized platform celebrating Latin culture through fashion, gastronomy, mixology, and entertainment. The discussion delves into how her nonprofit, Pivoting in Heels, works to empower women professionally and how her podcast Chic Innovator continues this mission through a new medium.

As the conversation unfolds, they examine broader cultural questions about casual dressing trends, fashion as a tool for empowerment, and personal style evolution across different eras. Arabel's insights provide a refreshing perspective on how women can leverage fashion not merely as self-expression but as a strategic element in professional success and community building.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Arabel on Instagram: @arabel22, @runwaylatinx, and @thechicinnovator

Join our host senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they explore the evolving role of women's fashion in the professional sphere.In Episode 7, Teddi and Melissa examine the seismic shift in workplace fashion from the era of "power suits" designed to help women blend in with their male colleagues to today's celebration of distinctly feminine professional style. They dive into how this transformation reflects broader changes in society as women increasingly outpace men in educational achievement and professional advancement. The conversation explores how the freedom to dress authentically in the workplace parallels women's growing confidence in owning their power and visibility.The discussion takes an intriguing turn as they connect the dots between reality TV's portrayal of wealthy women, the myth of the "down on their luck millionaire," and how these narratives influence public perception of successful women. They examine the political implications of these cultural shifts, including a frank discussion of Trump voters and gender dynamics in contemporary America. Through their signature blend of cultural analysis and personal experience, Teddi and Melissa make a passionate case for women stepping out of the background and into the spotlight – both in their professional presence and personal style. Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our host senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they explore the intersection of fashion, psychology, and culture.

In Episode 7, Teddi and Melissa welcome fashion industry veteran Maggie Gillette, dialing in from a sun-drenched New Orleans garden while her Chicago home undergoes renovations for expanded closet space. Maggie shares a heartwarming story from her childhood about being found hugging a rack of dresses in a department store, foreshadowing her future career spanning nearly every aspect of the fashion industry - from PR to lingerie design, high-end retail to styling.

The conversation flows through Maggie's journey from New York's fast-paced fashion scene to her return to Chicago, where she now serves as a Principal at The Curio, fostering the local fashion creative community. Drawing on her extensive experience as a trend forecaster and industry insider, Maggie offers unique insights into the evolution of fashion media, the future of style, and the importance of maintaining creative communities in cities beyond New York.

Through their discussion of fashion journalism, trend forecasting, and community building, the episode illuminates how personal passion can evolve into professional expertise while maintaining authenticity and connection to one's roots. Maggie's story serves as a reminder that sometimes the path forward leads back home, and that our earliest attractions to beauty and style can shape our entire life's journey.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Maggie@themaggiegillette

Join our host senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they interview another remarkable woman defying age-based expectations in the fashion world.

In Episode 5, Teddi and Melissa welcome Dr. Astrid Palca, a German physician who launched her modeling career in her late 40s and has since graced the covers of Harper's Bazaar US, GQ, and Forbes Canada. Born in Berlin and now based in Switzerland, Dr. Palca brings a unique perspective as both a medical professional and a fashion figure, challenging traditional narratives about age and beauty in the modeling industry.

The conversation explores how a corporate video unexpectedly launched her modeling career, leading to a substantial Instagram following and multiple magazine covers - achievements that are remarkably rare for women over 40 in the fashion industry. Dr. Palca shares her refreshing philosophy about modeling as "a celebration of all of the layers of her personality," offering insights into how professional women can embrace multiple identities without compromising their core values. The discussion naturally flows into a broader conversation about how the podcast consistently features extraordinary women over 40, suggesting that perhaps it's not these women who are rare, but rather the platforms that celebrate them.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Astrid@astridpalca

Join our host senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they continue their exploration of how media shapes our relationship with fashion and self-presentation.

In Episode 4, Teddi and Melissa dive deeper into the cultural impact of The Jerry Springer Show, examining how the normalization of public vulnerability and "worst day" behavior has influenced modern fashion choices and self-presentation. They explore the concept of "enshittification" - how making the extraordinary mundane has led to a decline in how we present ourselves to the world. The conversation weaves between cultural criticism and personal observation, examining how reality TV's exploitation of vulnerable people has gradually eroded standards of self-respect and public appearance.

The discussion takes a refreshing turn as they celebrate recent Chicago fashion moments, including former guest Scottie Eskelund's profound fashion show "What Is Love" and Teddi's delightful experience at the Kivanci boutique in Evanston with fashion designer Leen Gundogdu. These local highlights serve as a counterpoint to mass media's influence, showcasing how authentic fashion expression can elevate rather than diminish the human experience.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Scotti Eskelund@scottie.bydesign

Follow Kivanci @lelecouture

In this lively buddy episode, hosts Teddi and Melissa catch up on their recent fashion adventures around Chicago. They dive into their experiences at designer Tytus's jungle-dinosaur themed fashion show where guests were instructed to wear only black and white (though one rebel showed up in red!). Teddi shares her enchanting visit to Sujata Gazder's design studio, describing it as "being in a candy store," and recounts her eye-opening preview of Dior's fall collection at Neiman Marcus, where a perfectly fitted bomber jacket came with a $6,000 price tag and a Lady Dior handbag cost $10,000.

The conversation takes an entertaining turn as they explore sneaker culture through their attendance at a Curio sneaker event, where Teddi stood out as the only person wearing four-inch stilettos among a crowd of sneaker enthusiasts. They discuss the cultural significance of sneakers with featured speakers Yohance LaCour, and Dave Jeff, learning how getting dressed "from the feet up" was a revelation. Between sharing stories about shoe sizes (Teddi is size 5.5 and Melissa is a size 10), upcoming fashion events, and their summer hiatus plans, the hosts deliver their signature blend of fashion insight and personal humor that will keep you laughing right up until the end.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

To sponsor the show, email us, or ⁠join our Patreon community ⁠

Join our host senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they interview Chicago's best and brightest while asking hard-hitting questions about fashion and culture.

In Episode 3, Teddi and Melissa welcome Monica Corcoran Harel, the founder of "Pretty Ripe" and a multifaceted creator dubbed the "midlife midwife" by Women's Wear Daily. As a journalist, screenwriter, and thought leader, Monica brings a fresh perspective to the conversation about women over 40, challenging societal norms around aging and visibility in both media and fashion. Her work spans from writing for prestigious publications like The New York Times to developing a Netflix feature film about body-swapping between middle-aged women and Gen Z influencers.

The discussion delves deep into the complexities of female friendship and isolation, sparked by Monica's viral essay "My Mom Has No Friends" (now being developed into a sitcom with Mandy Moore). They explore how society arbitrarily marks 40 as a turning point for women's visibility despite it often being a time of peak confidence and capability. The conversation takes particularly interesting turns when examining the language we use around aging, including whether common phrases about gray hair and stress inadvertently stigmatize natural maturation processes.

Through their exploration of fashion, friendship, and cultural expectations, the episode challenges prevailing narratives about women over 40 while celebrating the richness and complexity of this life stage. Monica's insights about casual dressing trends, personal style evolution, and her upcoming retreat provide a framework for discussing how women can embrace their age while maintaining their sense of style and adventure. Her stance on proudly loving being an older woman offers a refreshing counterpoint to society's youth-obsessed culture.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Monica @prettyripe

Join our host, senior style icon and former mental health professional Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they interview the best and brightest to ask hard-hitting questions about fashion and culture.
In Episode 2 of our second season, Teddi and Melissa welcome the legendary Diane Gilman, known globally as the "Queen of Jeans" and a revolutionary force in fashion for women over 50. From her early days crafting embellished denim for rock icons like Janis Joplin and Jim Morrison to becoming a billion-dollar force in tele-retail, Diane shares her remarkable journey of breaking fashion rules and creating space for mature women in an industry that often overlooks them. The discussion deepens as they explore why the fashion industry continues to ignore women over 50 despite their significant purchasing power and how her DG2 line, launched at age 59, became a global phenomenon by addressing this overlooked demographic.
Through their exploration of fashion, sustainability, and personal transformation, the episode challenges industry norms while offering practical advice for women seeking style and comfort. Diane's story serves as a powerful reminder that innovation and success aren't bound by age and that true style should embrace both sustainability and inclusivity. Her insights on everything from fabric choices to society's shift toward casual wear provide a fascinating lens to examine our changing relationship with fashion and self-expression. Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠ 

Follow Diane Gilman @thedianegilman

Join our host, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, former mental health professional, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce as they kick off Season 2 with a provocative exploration of how 90s television shaped our relationship with fashion and self-expression.

In this season opener, Teddi and Melissa dive into the cultural impact of daytime talk shows, particularly examining how The Jerry Springer Show's parade of confrontational and exploitive practices may have unconsciously influenced an entire generation's understanding of acceptable behavior, presentation, and proclivities. Through their signature blend of cultural analysis and psychological insight, they unpack how the show's deliberate shockploitation reinforced stereotypes while creating a new visual shorthand for "trashy" versus "classy" in the American consciousness.

Their discussion reveals how what we once dismissed as mere entertainment has left an indelible mark on our collective fashion psyche, influencing how we judge ourselves and others through the lens of personal style and our choice of "feel-good" entertainment. Through this analysis, they raise important questions about class, authenticity, and the power of media to shape our self-expression and fashion choices—even decades later.

Join Teddi Krochman and Melissa Pierce as they continue their delightfully unfiltered exploration of what our clothes say about us (and what we think they're saying about others).

In Episode 17, they welcome the deliciously eclectic Delphine Pontvieux, who's managed to be an actor, scuba diver, jewelry designer, and writer - all while keeping her French accent intact. Born in France but now embracing Chicago's creative spirit, Delphine brings a refreshing perspective on what happens when personal style refuses to be boxed into cultural expectations.

The conversation dances from Delphine's adventures in Hollywood to her creation of bold, unapologetic jewelry pieces at NYET Jewelry. Things get especially interesting when Delphine confesses that while her American friends see her as the walking embodiment of French chic, her style would make her Parisian friends raise their perfectly groomed eyebrows in confusion. It's a perfect reminder that sometimes the most authentic style is the one that makes the least sense on paper - and that's exactly what makes it fabulous.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠

Follow Delphine @delphine.pontvieux

Join host Teddi Krochman, senior style icon and former mental health professional, and Melissa Pierce, entrepreneur and documentarian, as they continue their exploration of fashion psychology and cultural dynamics.

In Episode 16, fast friends Teddi and Melissa share an intimate conversation about family holiday traditions and clothing expectations, from formal Christmas dinners to casual gatherings. The discussion takes unexpected turns as they venture into predictions for 2025, celebrating Teddi's recent 71st birthday, and engaging in a frank discussion about end-of-life preferences - including Teddi's memorable declaration that she'd rather be shot out of a cannon than have a traditional funeral, and Melissa's costume party where you dress as yourself from the future. 

Through their signature blend of professional insight and personal experience, they examine how holiday dress codes reflect deeper family dynamics and cultural expectations, while their musings about the future reveal how age and experience shape our relationship with fashion and self-expression. 

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠

In Episode 15 of their fashion psychology podcast, hosts Theodora Krochman and Melissa Pierce welcome avant-garde artist and designer Jordan Chavez of InBetweenBranches, whose journey from rural Ohio to Chicago's vibrant fashion scene offers a compelling lens into the psychology of creative transformation. They explore how the artist's transition from hand-sewing to machine work parallels deeper themes of overcoming creative fears and embracing growth.
The conversation delves into the fascinating intersection of folk art, queer identity, and classic Americana, examining how these elements combine to create fashion that makes the familiar strange. Jordan shares insights about his evolution from his 2022 debut collection "Folk Art Fantasy" to his recent "Rural Renaissance" showcase at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, revealing how childhood imagination in rural spaces continues to influence his avant-garde designs.

As the discussion unfolds, they explore the psychological implications of blending rural and urban aesthetics, and how fashion serves as a narrative vehicle for personal transformation. The episode examines how Jordan's work challenges traditional fashion boundaries while maintaining a connection to his roots, creating pieces that are simultaneously soft and bold, classic and boundary-pushing.

Through his story of moving from fields to city streets, the conversation illuminates how location and environment shape not only our creative expression but our fundamental relationship with clothing and identity.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠ 

Follow Jordan at: @inbetweenbranches

In Episode 14 of their fashion psychology podcast, hosts Theodora Krochman and Melissa Pierce dive deep into the intricate connections between language, clothing, and human emotion. They explore the fascinating etymological links between friendship and freedom, revealing how linguistic roots can illuminate broader psychological concepts. The episode takes a provocative look at fashion as a form of resistance, examining how clothing choices can challenge totalitarian systems and serve as a powerful medium of personal and political expression.

The conversation delves into the complex psychological landscape of casual dressing and its unexpected relationship with emotional overeating, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on how our wardrobe choices reflect and potentially influence our mental and physical states. Krochman and Pierce bring their unique backgrounds in mental health and documentary filmmaking to bear, dissecting the layers of meaning behind seemingly simple fashion trends and personal style choices.

True to the podcast's mission, they go beyond surface-level fashion commentary, asking the fundamental question: not what are you wearing, but why are you wearing it?

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠ 

Teddi's dress is from: @buddhatrends

In this powerful episode, host Theodora Krochman and co-host Melissa Pierce sit down with Michele Nadeem-Baker and Susan Kanoff, the dynamic duo behind Kicking Cancer in Heels podcast. These remarkable women have created a vital community supporting women living with cancer, demonstrating how fashion and personal style can serve as emotional armor during life's toughest battles.

Michele, a former broadcast journalist and Global Chief Communications Officer, and Susan, the founder of Uncommon Threads and the popular Midlife Fashionista blog, share their journey of creating not only Kicking Cancer in Heels but also CLL Women Strong, a national support group for women with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Together, they explore how fashion intersects with healing, empowerment, and community building.

Join us for an intimate conversation about how clothing choices reflect not just personal style, but also resilience, strength, and the power of community in the face of serious illness.

Links:

⁠Uncommon Threads⁠

⁠Kicking Cancer in Heels⁠

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠

Follow Kicking Cancer in Heels: ⁠@kickingcancerinheels⁠

This week on our podcast, we're diving deep into the transformative world of fashion representation with Britney Wittes, a trailblazing short model who's challenging industry standards and creating space for diverse body types. From her early start in commercial modeling to founding Why Not Petites, Britney's story is a powerful narrative about resilience, inclusivity, and redefining beauty standards.

Our conversation explores the complex intersection of fashion, economics, and mental health through the lens of model representation. We'll unpack how Gen Z is reimagining industry norms, pushing for sustainability, and demanding more authentic representation. Britney shares her personal journey of pivoting when traditional modeling pathways closed, ultimately creating her own platform that nurtures and empowers shorter models who have been historically overlooked.

Listeners will get an intimate look into the inner workings of the modeling industry, the challenges of breaking traditional height barriers, and how one person's vision can spark meaningful change. From her work with major brands like American Girl and McDonalds to her mission of creating a supportive community for petite models, Britney's story is both inspiring and eye-opening.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠ 

Follow Briteny on Instagram: @whynotpetites

Join your favorite style-obsessed besties this week:

• Teddi (The Instagram Queen & Fresh FGI Rising Star)

• Melissa (Tech Entrepreneur & Documentary Maven)

This episode is PACKED with Chicago Fashion Week tales!

Episode Highlights:

• Teddi snags the FGI/Chicago Rising Star Award (Yes, Melissa's heard about it a thousand times... and counting!)

• Behind the scenes of Teddi's debut on Daytime Chicago, strutting for the incredible Dana Asady

• Our deep dive into the eternal question: Why do we keep buying black everything?

• The mysterious allure of oversized glasses on women (We have THOUGHTS!)

Meet Your Hosts:

• Teddi (@teddilovesfashion): Style icon extraordinaire with 80K+ followers and collabs with 50+ brands

• Melissa (@the.melissa.fierce): The branding brains behind some of the most successful Chicago fashion start-ups and creator of "Life in Perpetual Beta." Currently producing a doc about computing pioneer Grace Hopper!

Designer Love Notes (because Teddi's brain went a bit fuzzy during recording):

• @seresfootwear

• @carol_kennelly

• @margojewelry_

Catch us on the 'gram: @teddilovesfashion @getdressedfordinner @the.melissa.fierce

Disclaimer: This episode may contain excessive excitement about fashion awards and an unreasonable amount of black clothing appreciation

In this sparkling episode, hosts Teddi and Melissa welcome a Chicago-born jewelry designer Maancy (pronounced MAHN-see), who creates modern, interchangeable jewelry pieces. From her "I can't find what I want to wear" frustration to studying at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America, Maancy's journey to launching her brand in October 2023 is nothing short of inspiring. Her designs are a stunning fusion of Art Deco glamour and modernist architecture, transforming gorgeous gemstones like quartz and calcite into wearable art that speaks volumes. 

Maancy spills all the tea on why she chose to work with just three master artisans in a dreamy downtown LA atelier instead of going the cheaper overseas route. These skilled craftspeople hand-forge each piece in solid sterling silver, creating jewelry so personalized you practically know whose hands touched your earrings! Fresh off her debut at Paris Fashion Week (yes, PARIS!), where buyers couldn't stop buzzing about her innovative concept, Maancy is proving that sustainable luxury isn't just possible, it's personal. 

Find Maancy on Instagram at @maancy.m or visit her website: https://maancy.com/

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

To sponsor the show, email us, or ⁠join our Patreon community ⁠

Jess Crane is a multidisciplinary artist and business consultant whose expertise spans the realms of fashion, music, and creative entrepreneurship. As the founder of Jess Crane Design, she’s been a driving force in product development and concept design for both major corporations and up-and-coming brands. In addition, Jess has impacted the fashion industry with her work on the board of AIBI Chicago and currently chairs the Nominations Committee for FGI Chicago. Her passion for preserving and celebrating local fashion history shines through in her ongoing research project on Chicago’s rich fashion legacy.Jess has a BFA in fashion Design from the Illinois Institute of Art Chicago and an MS in Recreation sports and Tourism from the University of Illinois Urbana Champagne.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠

Follow Jess on Instagram: @jesscranedesign

Bella Abel is an accomplished Polish-American photographer and former FORD Model, who has been a significant presence in the fashion and beauty industry for over a decade. As the founder of **Belamatrix**, a Visual Productions Company, Bella specializes in fashion, portraiture, and personal branding.

For the past five years, she has dedicated her craft to empowering models, everyday women, business owners and entrepreneurs, helping them assert their identity and visibility through the transformative power of photography. Bella Abel has also worked with brands such as L'Oréal and Ulta Beauty.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠, ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠, ⁠@getdressedfordinner 

Follow Bella on Instragram: @bellamatrix

Get to know Teddi Krochman, “Senior Style Icon," and Melissa Pierce, "a curious Jill of all trades", as we talk about what's new in our fashion life including A LOT about the 90s, Jackie Kennedy's melon head, a fair bit of laughing, and some deep insight into the psychology of getting dressed.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddiilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner 

Nikki Chachere is a top Chicago-based model whose career took some interesting twists and turns to get where it is today. Nikki enlisted in the Air Force in 2004 and served for 10 years as a “cop.”

Including an early station in Iraq (thank you for your service). At the beginning of Nikki’s military career, she was spotted by a model recruiter at a local mall. She was selected from over 150 other contenders to go to Dallas to start a modeling career.

However, since she was in the military, her modeling career had to wait until she retired from the Air Force in 2014. She then went on to receive a B.A. in legal studies from Penn State University and a B.S. in criminal justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Today, Nikki is a highly successful model, having graced the pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, as well as numerous runways and photoshoots. Her journey from the military to the fashion world is a testament to her talent and determination. In addition to her modeling career, she has also ventured into entrepreneurship, owning a new cognac brand called Epochal.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠, ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠, ⁠@getdressedfordinner 

Follow Nikki on Instagram: @mizznik and Epochal cognac @epochalcognac

Scottie Eskelund has a master’s degree in psychology. They are currently a Licensed Professional Counselor working with polyamory, queer, and trans folks as they navigate life transitions, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression.

Scottie began their fashion career in 2022 when they were walking through a thrift store and stumbled upon a slew of crochet blankets. They were immediately inspired by their intricate designs. Scottie transformed those blankets into wearable art, and since then, their fashion brand, Scottie by Design, has prioritized using unconventional materials and textiles to inspire their designs.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddiilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner 

Follow Scottie on Instagram: @scottie.bydesign

This week hosts Theodora Krochman and Melissa Pierce welcome Johanna Grange to their podcast.
Johanna, a University of Iowa graduate with a double major in journalism and English and a minor in performing arts, is the co-owner of Oak Street Social, a digital and social marketing agency. She's also a social media influencer with over 70,000 Instagram followers.
In this episode, we discuss whether style is innate or learned, Johanna's favorite fashion eras, and how she describes her personal style. The conversation delves into whether Johanna dresses to blend in or stand out and whether society has lost its desire for glamour.
We also delve into how fashion has changed over the decades and whether or not shapewear effected Teddi's mother's sex life. Never a dull moment, we tell you.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠, ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠, ⁠@getdressedfordinner

Follow Johanna on Instagram: @jogrange

Stylist Ray Jeremiah's winding professional journey is a testament to the phrase, "Life is a journey, not a destination." With an undergraduate degree in digital media and a master's in marketing, one might expect him to have pursued a creative field immediately after college. Instead, he spent nearly a decade in the financial services industry before taking a bold step in 2020 to found Styles by Ray Jeremiah, a venture that has since gained recognition in the high-fashion industry.

This unconventional path, however, has proved to be a blessing in disguise. Ray's creative spark, which may have taken the long way around to finding its expression, has now blossomed into a thriving career in the world of fashion. His portfolio includes collaborations with renowned names such as Dana Asady, Express, K. Daniels, Jeremy Virago, Stevie Edwards, and rap star, Shawna. Moreover, his styling has been featured in the prestigious Harper's Bazaar, a testament to his exceptional talent and industry recognition.

The lesson to be learned from Ray's journey is that sometimes the winding road can lead to the most fulfilling destinations. By allowing his passion for creativity to find its way, even if it took a circuitous route, Ray has emerged as a rising figure in the high-fashion world, inspiring others to embrace the unexpected and trust the process of their own personal journeys.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: ⁠@teddiilovesfashion⁠, ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠, ⁠@getdressedfordinner

Follow Ray on Instagram: @_ray.jeremiah

Get to know Teddi Krochman, “Senior Style Icon, “and Melissa Pierce, entrepreneur and documentarian, as we begin our journey with our new podcast “Why Don’t We Dress for Dinner Anymore.”

We will tell you a bit about our professional careers and how we came together—just two women from two different generations navigating life and trying to decipher the psychological impact of the way we dress past and present.

About Teddi Krochman:

Teddi has been a behavioral health professional for 30 years. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. Teddi is a licensed therapist but has spent much of her career on the business and administrative side of behavioral health, running a hospital department and then a community substance use disorder clinic.

Teddi’s fascination with fashion and style has been a lifelong passion since she opened the annual Fall Sears catalog at the tender age of 5. She would tear out pictures of outfits she thought her beautiful mother should wear; the rest is history.

Teddi is wearing:

Stirrup Suede Necklace from NYET jewelry

Gold Chunky Bracelet, Divine Wrist Cuff from Its All Culture Jewelry

About Melissa Pierce:

Melissa has spent most of her career as the” jill of all trades,” including life as a marketing agency owner, start-up C-suite, life coach for entrepreneurs, and documentarian.  Melissa’s first documentary, “Life in Perpetual Beta,” was spawned as social media platforms took off, and Melissa’s curiosity about human behavior hasn’t slowed down since.

She was a co-founder and the COO of startup company Everpurse, a handbag with a charger sewn in the lining that charged phones as they were carried. During her time in this endeavor, she even got to ring the NASDAQ bell!

Currently, Melissa consults as a Fractional CMO for small businesses and is producing a documentary about the life of Rear Admiral Grace Murray Hopper, one of the first computer programmers.

Melissa has an MBA and undergraduate degree in Communication.

Melissa’s love of all things fashion began in the 2nd grade when she refused to wear any color but yellow for three years running.

Though Melissa promised to give you all the details of her earrings - the jeweler is no longer in business. :(

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddiilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner

Dana Asady is the fashion designer behind the stunning women’s wear brand aŠady. Her work is influenced by timeless shapes with roots in ancient Mesopotamia, where goddesses ruled both love and war simultaneously, married with a modern twist fit for the 21st century woman. But that’s not all there is to know about this brilliant designer – in fact, she almost didn’t become a designer at all.

After Dana’s family left Iraq to pursue a better future in the U.S. she obtained a master’s degree in nuclear physics. Afterwards, she held a career in tech for 12 years before following her childhood passion of designing and making clothing - and as they say, the rest is history.

Join Teddi and Melissa on their fascinating discovery of how Dana looks at fashion through the lens of physics and hear her deeply insightful answers to the burning question, “Why don’t we dress for dinner anymore?”

Follow us on Instagram: @getdressedfordinner, @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @dana.asady

Join Teddi Krochman and Melissa Pierce as they interview Chicago stylist and college professor, Rachel J. Penca about the Chicago fashion world and her thoughts on why people wear what they wear.

Rachel J. Penca:

Rachel has a degree in advertising from the University of Illinois – Champaign Urbana. Rachel worked in corporate advertising for about 7 years and decided to make the leap to personal styling. She worked for a Chicagoland suburban upscale boutique and was then hired by Nordstrom where she was soon promoted to Los Angeles to help manage one of their most prestigious designer departments. Rachel styled celebrity clients including Vivica A. Fox and the rest is history. Today Rachel has her own personal styling business which also includes commercial styling and fashion shoots. In addition, she is a professor of Fashion Styling at Columbia College and mentors young people on how to get started in the styling business.

In Episode 19, Teddi and Melissa tackle the intersection of politics and personal expression through fashion, examining how government policies are increasingly controlling how people present themselves. The conversation opens with the Trump administration's declaration that only two sexes exist and people must present according to their assigned gender at birth, effectively policing clothing choices and self-expression through dress.

The hosts explore the historical roots of "fashion statements" as political rebellion, tracing back to figures like Joan of Arc who challenged gender norms through clothing. Drawing connections to their recent interview with Professor Linda Przybyszewski, they discuss how the dismantling of home economics departments during the Cold War eliminated spaces where women could pursue scientific careers and learn the art of dress. The conversation reveals how fashion has always been a form of political communication—from protest t-shirts to the symbolic power of the pink pussy hats from the Women's March.

The episode takes a sharp turn examining the current administration's targeting of marginalized communities through appearance-based discrimination, while noting the irony of MAGA women's hyper-feminized aesthetic that mirrors drag performance. Teddi and Melissa issue a passionate call to action, encouraging listeners to use fashion as resistance and to dress as a form of political expression, emphasizing that in a constitutional crisis, our clothing choices become statements of defiance against authoritarianism.

(Note: Teddi mentions that the Pritzkers own the Marriott hotel chain, however, it's the Hyatt)

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram: @teddilovesfashion, @the.melissa.fierce, @getdressedfordinner

To sponsor the show, email us at whydontweressfordinner at gmail.com, or join our Patreon community

In Episode 18, Teddi and Melissa welcome Professor Linda Przybyszewski (pronounced "Pruh-buh-SHEF-skee") , author of "The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Made America Stylish" and Associate Professor of History at Notre Dame. The conversation explores the fascinating world of the "Dress Doctors," professional women in the early 20th century who applied Western art principles to fashion, creating democratic guidelines for beautiful, economical dress through five key principles: harmony, emphasis, balance, rhythm, and proportion.

The discussion delves into the "six occasions for dress" that guided women's fashion choices: school, business, housework, spectator sports, social afternoons, and evenings, revealing how each occasion had specific principles about appropriate styles and colors. Professor Przybyszewski explains how the 1960s youth movement, alongside the dismantling of home economics departments, led to the rejection of dress principles and the rise of casual fashion, resulting in the loss of sophisticated styling for women over 30.

The episode concludes with a thoughtful examination of our current fashion landscape and a hopeful discussion about pockets of resistance through vintage clothing and appreciation for elegant dressing, suggesting a potential future rebellion against ultra-casual fashion in favor of more intentional, occasion-specific attire.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Once Made America Stylish by Linda Przybyszewski 

To sponsor the show, email us, or ⁠join our Patreon community ⁠

In this buddy episode, Teddi shares her recent deep dive into Chicago's vintage fashion scene, from exploring designer vintage pop-ups to discovering treasure at the Ravenswood Vintage Market—including a unique 1980s handbag designed to look like a rolled-up Vogue magazine. She also reveals the surprising story behind her most extravagant fashion purchase ever: a $1,000 pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes!

The conversation takes several fascinating turns as Teddi recounts her first-ever professional makeup session (in her 70s!) with talented artist Rania, sparking a discussion about makeup techniques for mature skin. Looking ahead, the hosts tease upcoming podcast guests and events, including their interview with a fashion historian from Notre Dame University, Tytus's fashion show, and a designer sneaker event. Throughout their wide-ranging chat, Teddi and Melissa weave in thoughtful reflections on the psychology behind what people wear during times of revolution and how clothing choices become powerful statements of identity.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Artists mentioned in the show: 

@schlesakvintage, @kameovintage, @imarriedamillenial, @jenrestylefashion, @emmalyonsart, @sujatagazder, @makeupartist.rania , @kivanci.official, @by.tytus

and the book, The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Once Made America Stylish by future guest, Linda Przybyszewski 

To sponsor the show, email us, or ⁠join our Patreon community ⁠

In Episode 16, Teddi and Melissa welcome designer Tytus of "Tytus by Tytus," whose distinctive sustainable couture brand launched in 2016. Dressed in his signature style—a tweed jacket, necktie without a shirt, ripped pants, and thigh-high camo boots with spiked heels—Tytus embodies his brand's unique blend of "informal formal wear" that combines structured silhouettes with edgy streetwear elements.

The conversation explores his surprising design inspiration: dinosaurs, which represent something "completely different" and "majestic" with both structure and organic flow, qualities he incorporates into his primarily upcycled designs.

Tytus shares his journey from an After School Matters program to developing his self-taught design practice focused on transforming thrifted materials into one-of-a-kind pieces. He discusses his fashion show "Raw XD: Wild Ones," featuring 18 looks showcasing his aesthetic in a jungle-inspired setting. The discussion takes a fascinating turn when Tytus identifies the 1970s as his favorite fashion era, praising how men had the freedom to express themselves beyond traditional masculinity. Tytus's confidence, creativity, and commitment to authentic self-expression shine through, offering listeners insight into how sustainable fashion can serve as both personal statement and industry revolution.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Tytus @by.tytus

To sponsor the show, email us, or join our patreon community

In this buddy episode, Teddi shares her exciting experience working with talented photographer Marcus Jenkins, highlighting his meticulous attention to lighting and composition that resulted in portrait-quality images she describes as "like paintings." She gives special recognition to designer Omaima Couture from Niles, who provided the stunning navy blue pleated gown she wore for the photoshoot. Teddi also mentions an upcoming project with photographer Skyye Kimmons for his "40 Over 40" series featuring women over forty, showcasing Chicago's vibrant creative community.

The conversation shifts to current fashion trends, with both hosts discussing the resurgence of 1970s style, specifically boho chic aesthetics with flowy blouses, wide-legged jeans, and platform shoes. Melissa, dressed in vibrant patterns and layered accessories, embodies this trend that Teddi notes is prominent in 2025 fashion. They explore how vintage shopping connects to these cyclical fashion trends, with Melissa sharing insights from her thrift shopping adventures with her teenage daughters and giving shoutouts to local vintage shops, including Dovetail in Wicker Park and Luvsick, which specializes in plus-size vintage clothing.

As the episode draws to a close, Teddi and Melissa celebrate their one-year podcast anniversary, recalling how they first met at last year's Curio spring mixer—the same event they had just attended. They reflect on their journey creating a podcast dedicated to showcasing Chicago fashion creatives and express gratitude to Curio for bringing them together.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

People and places we love mentioned in the show: 

@emjay_fotos

@aesthetic_by_skyye

@omaimacouture

@vintagefrills 

@shopfleeky 

@Luvsickplus

@Dovetailchicago

Join hosts Theodora Krochman and Melissa Pierce as they welcome Sharaun B, who shares her journey from America's Next Top Model (Cycle 11) to creating Model Tribe, a platform revolutionizing the modeling industry by combining fashion with wellness. Sharaun candidly discusses the reality behind reality TV, revealing how being eliminated for "having too much confidence" became a catalyst for her personal transformation and eventual mission to help others.

Through Model Tribe, Sharaun has created virtual and physical spaces where women of all ages learn modeling techniques while focusing on confidence-building and self-worth. She challenges traditional modeling industry toxicity by emphasizing the connection between fashion and mental health, declaring, "Fashion is wellness," and advocating for a more feminine, creative approach to personal style.

The conversation explores how modeling can serve as a tool for self-discovery rather than just a professional pursuit. Sharaun shares how her new headquarters at Chicago's Water Tower Place offers runway training, photoshoots, and wellness activities that help women connect with their bodies and develop authentic confidence that comes from embodiment rather than performance.

As the episode concludes, the three women contemplate why society has become so casually dressed. Sharaun offers insights on how systemic pressures and exhaustion lead to prioritizing comfort over self-expression. She presents her vision for breaking this cycle through celebrating individuality, reclaiming feminine energy, and creating supportive communities that encourage creative expression through fashion.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow Sharaun B: @sharaunb

In the second episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce introduce a new show feature, "Style it or Pile it," where we each take turns pulling something beloved but long left unworn from our closets to ask each other and you - do we move it into this season's rotation or do we move on?

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

Join our host, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, former mental health professional, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce in this season opener as Chicago's creative underground gets its moment in the spotlight as multi-talented director, producer, and stylist Casscellina. Known for her ability to spot hidden talent and create compelling visual narratives, Casscellina represents a new breed of artists who refuse to be boxed into single categories. From styling decades-spanning fashion shows to penning crime family sagas, Casscellina embodies the entrepreneurial creative spirit that drives Chicago's alternative arts scene.

The discussion explores how creative disciplines intersect and inform each other, particularly as Casscellina transitions from visual storytelling to written narrative with her upcoming three-part crime fiction series "No Questions Asked." Her insights into fashion's evolution across the 70s, 80s, and 90s, combined with her observations about society's increasing casualization, offer both historical perspective and contemporary cultural commentary. This episode reveals how one artist's diverse skill set reflects the broader changes in how we create, consume, and present ourselves in modern culture.

Follow Casscellina at @Casscellina, and @antixartshow

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

In the fifth episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce speak with stylist, consignment luxury studio owner, and expert authenticator, Demeta Arvanitis, about how deep her passion for all things couture goes - folks, it goes pretty darn deep. Tune in to hear just how deep this FGI board member gets into the details. 

Follow Demeta on Instagram @styledbydemetra

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

In the forth episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce talk about Melissa's recent business travels and the styling, or lack of styling happening in airports these days.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

In the third episode of our third season, senior style icon Theodora Krochman, and entrepreneur and documentarian Melissa Pierce interview Marquan Jones the president of the Chicago Fashion Coalition, an organization that works to position Chicago as a prominent global fashion hub. We talk about Chicago Fashion Week and all of the upcoming events that the Chicago Fashion Coalition has a hand in producing (find them here). But Marquan's vision for how we show up in the world is more than how Chicago turns out on the runway, he is also a dynamic community builder and brand strategist who merges technology, creativity, and social impact by serving as an Impact Officer for the World Economic Forum's Global Shapers Chicago. Marquan's journey through food deserts to Chicago fashion is one that will likely get you out of your seat and into action. 

Follow Marquan and the Chicago Fashion Coalition on Instagram: @chicagofashioncoalition

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠

In the 14th episode and final installment of Why Don't We Dress for Dinner Anymore, Teddi and Melissa dive into the polarizing world of holiday themed clothing, starting with Teddi's genuinely ugly Christmas sweater complete with bells and strategic rips. They dissect why certain professions (teachers and HR professionals, anyone?) seem drawn to pumpkin sweatshirts, turkey earrings, and light-up ornament accessories, debating whether these festive displays signal "I'm safe and approachable" or "I'm secretly wild and crazy underneath my mild-mannered exterior." The conversation takes a hilarious turn when they blame the Von Trapp family for starting the matching pajamas trend, questioning what Instagram has done to our holiday authenticity and whether those perfectly orchestrated family photos in identical sleepwear represent genuine festivity or carefully manicured performances. In their Style It or Pile It segment, Melissa confronts a Thailand souvenir dress she hasn't worn in six years, leading to a discussion about vacation shopping mistakes and the pressure to upcycle versus just letting go. As Teddi and Melissa sign off for the final time, they reflect on the incredible journey of producing this show together and the joy it brought them to explore fashion, vulnerability, and why we stopped dressing up in America. Thank you to all our listeners for joining us on this adventure. Happy holidays, stay fashionable, and keep asking why!

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠

In the 13th episode of season 3, Teddi and Melissa sit down with Chicago fashion producer and former fashion model, Maxi Black, who's reimagining the entire industry model from the ground up at MM Productions. The conversation dives deep into why the "build your portfolio" mentality exploits creatives, how the pay-to-play model has infiltrated fashion shows, and why sponsorship and patronage might be the only sustainable path forward for emerging designers. They explore the stark reality that most fashion creatives in Chicago work multiple exhausting day jobs, leaving them depleted and unable to pursue their passion with full energy. The discussion takes a philosophical turn when they connect fashion to agency, vulnerability, and authenticity, asking why Americans have stopped dressing up and whether our collective exhaustion has made us afraid of choice itself. From decision fatigue caused by fast fashion overload to Teddi's hilarious $10 Shein disaster, this episode examines why quality over quantity matters and how upcycling and vintage shopping offer both novelty and sustainability. 

Follow Maxi at @maxiinoir and @mproductions.llc

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

In the 12th episode of season 3, Teddi confesses to Melissa in their segment "Style It or Pile It" that she hasn't worn her pick for the show in eight years, sparking a hilarious debate about good eating clothes, closet hoarding, and why we keep items we'll never wear again. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Teddi's guilty pleasure watching The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives leads to a deeper discussion about how religion has historically controlled women's fashion choices. From mandatory head coverings in Greek Orthodox and Catholic churches to the evolution of "magic underwear" in Mormon culture, they explore how declining church attendance forced religious institutions to relax their dress codes. Melissa shares her own experiences growing up Mormon while Teddi unpacks the hypocrisy of labeling women as either "holy" or "hookers" based on their clothing choices. This episode is part fashion confessional, part cultural commentary, and all about the judgment we face whether we dress up or dress down.

Follow Teddi, Melissa, and the show on Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@teddilovesfashion⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@the.melissa.fierce⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@getdressedfordinner⁠⁠⁠ 

In the 11th episode of season 3, Teddi and Melissa interview Emma Lyons, the self-trained artist who dances on canvas to create both paintings and wearable fashion simultaneously. Emma shares her journey from professional nurse to full-time creative, explaining her revolutionary technique that merges dance, painting, and fashion into one emotional performance. The conversation explores her philosophy that "you are a work of art" and why we've entered "the tired era" of fashion where our collective exhaustion has made us afraid of the vulnerability that comes with dressing up and being truly seen. From champagne tasting better in evening gowns to why being critiqued is inevitable no matter what you wear, this episode is a rallying cry for authentic self-expression and the radical act of blurring every creative line.

In episode 10 of season 3, Teddi and Melissa discuss their theory about why Americans have become so casual in their dress: we now live in public. Building on insights from their conversation with stylist Katie De Luna, the hosts explore how the combination of COVID-19 isolation and the rise of social media surveillance culture has fundamentally changed how people approach getting dressed.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the psychology of living in a "panopticon", a world where everyone has a camera, everyone has an opinion, and everything is potentially public. Teddi and Melissa examine how employers now scrutinize social media, how strangers can photograph and comment on you without consent, and how the pressure to maintain a curated image online has paradoxically made people retreat into invisibility in their everyday lives. They also explore the loss of genuine social connection, noting that even at fashion events, people have forgotten how to have meaningful conversations beyond superficial small talk and photo ops.