The Men's Fashion Book by Phaidon Editors

In this in-depth episode of The VOU Podcast for men, we dive into The Men’s Fashion Book, the game-changing compendium chronicling 200 years of menswear. Join us as we unpack this ambitious A–Z volume, from Savile Row tailors and streetwear legends to iconic rock stars and cultural revolutionaries, we explore the fascinating mosaic of characters that shaped how men dress.

Tune in as we discuss surprising pairings from the book – like how a 19th-century dandy ends up next to a modern TikTok influencer on the page – and what these juxtapositions say about the evolution of masculinity and fashion. We’ll talk about the global journey of menswear, touching on Japanese Ivy League style in the ’60s, hip-hop’s takeover of high fashion, and the unsung heroes behind classic items in every guy’s closet. We share behind-the-scenes insights on selecting the book’s 500 entries, including why figures like designer Rei Kawakubo, musician James Brown, and even the inventor of the fedora earned a spot.

This episode vividly portrays men’s fashion as not just about clothes but about culture: how photography and magazines forged the image of the suit, how social movements opened new style freedoms, and how today’s designers draw on the past to reinvent the future. Whether you’re a style aficionado or just curious about that blazer in your wardrobe, you’ll gain a richer understanding of menswear’s heritage and the colorful cast of characters who defined it.

Join us for a sartorial journey through time and discover how a well-tailored jacket, a sneaker, or even a jewel can tell the story of a century. By the episode’s end, you’ll see your clothes in a new light and maybe be inspired to dress more boldly. 

A Men's Styling Podcast Made with LOVE by The VOU's Expert Image Consultants.