Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

The tailoring industry is long overdue for innovation, and Nancy Rhodes is leading the charge. In this episode, we sit down with the cofounder and CEO of Alternew to discuss how technology is revolutionizing fashion care and repair. From creating seamless connections between tailors, consumers, and brands to redefining how we think about alterations, Nancy is bringing a fresh perspective to an industry that has long operated in the shadows.

photo: Courtesy of Eric Strand

Key Topics Discussed:

• How Alternew is streamlining tailoring and alterations through technology.
• The importance of shifting consumer mindsets toward fashion care over fast fashion.
• Why big brands are beginning to embrace sustainability and garment longevity.

Takeaways:

• Tailoring and alterations are the missing link in sustainable fashion
• Technology can make fashion care as accessible as booking a restaurant or vacation rental
• The future of fashion isn’t just about what we buy—it’s about how we maintain and extend the life of our clothes

Links:

• Alternew – Where tech meets tradition. Alternew connects fashion to its circular future through alterations, repairs, and beyond.
• Faherty – Faherty Brand is an American clothing company, founded by twin brothers Alex and Mike Faherty. Its aesthetic was described as “surf hippie” by The New York Times.
• Everlane – Shop today. Wear now. Love forever. Easy, on-the-go styles that are designed to last. Made in America.
• Moose Knuckles – Since 1921, our family has been protecting Canadians from the cold – a relentless quest that founded Moose Knuckles Canada in 2009. Inspired by our nation’s most fearless animal who only leaves a trace of its knuckle in the snow, the moose guides voyagers on their endless pursuit of adventure.
• Veja – VEJA creates sneakers from organic cotton, Amazon rubber and recycled materials, combining social projects with economic justice.
• Arc’teryx – We design for the future we hope to inhabit, where nothing is left to waste.
• CFDA x eBay Circular Fashion Fund – Our mission is to strengthen the impact of American fashion globally by amplifying creative excellence, business longevity, and positive impact.
• Matthew Reisman – developing womenswear and menswear exploring concepts of tailoring, drama, simplicity, and ease.