Through The Back Door

Claire Vastola
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  • FASHION & BEAUTY
  • TWICE MONTHLY

Hey, it's Claire! We’re so excited to kick off Season 2 of Through the Back Door. We have some amazing guests lined up, plus a whole new series focusing on fashion and tech innovation. We're also diving into episodes about mindset and how to navigate this industry. I’m passionate about helping others learn from those who’ve paved the way so they can carve their own path. Whether through social media, fashion, or art, we all have the ability to create something big when we align vision with strategy. This season will give you insights into the inner workings of fashion, personal growth, and r

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Things are changing around here

    In this episode, I’m talking through a rebrand—both creatively and mentally. I share why I’m shifting some episodes away from video and back into audio, and how that change feels more aligned with where Girl Into Fashion is heading. I also reflect on this past New York Fashion Week and why it felt like a real up-level for me: attending shows I genuinely admired, being invited by PR teams for the first time, and experiencing fashion week from a place that felt earned rather than aspirational. This episode is less about recap and more about perspective—what changed, what clicked, and how mindset plays a bigger role than we like to admit. A check-in, a reset, and a quiet marker of growth.

    17 min

  2. 23 FEB

    23.Details: Andrew Curwen’s Nocturnal Conditions AW26 Collection Part 1

    In the Details: Andrew Curwen’s AW26 Collection In this episode, we get an up-close look at Andrew Curwen’s collection beyond the runway and into the details that often go unnoticed. We talk construction, garment engineering, and the small decisions that quietly define great design: from salt-spray finishes and bodice shaping to lining construction, corset boning, and how to make something look beautifully worn without losing integrity. What stood out most was Andrew’s depth of thought and attention to detail. Every piece felt intentional — not just in how it looked, but in how it was built, how it moves, and how it lives on the body. This conversation was a reminder that real craft lives in the details, and that wearability and artistry don’t have to be at odds. I genuinely loved being at this show and experiencing the collection in person. I’m incredibly grateful to have had a small window into Andrew Curwen’s world and process — it’s the kind of work and level of care that I truly aspire to. 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube Andrew CurwenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewcurwenWebsite: https://www.andrewcurwen.com Claire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.com Watch & ListenFollow the DesignerFollow the HostFashion Networking & Resources

    26 min

  3. 22 FEB

    22.Advice From a Single Mom of Two Living in Manhattan

    This episode is a little unhinged in the best way. Claire sits down with Laura Stemmer (single mom of two, Manhattan-based, nightlife/bar owner energy, fashion background, zero fear) for a conversation that starts with chihuahuas being… chihuahuas… and ends with actual life advice that hits way harder than it should. We get into: how Laura went from Parsons fashion design → nightlife survival mode → running the room why everyone should work service at least once (or you’re not real) the power dynamics of bartending, the $100 tip effect, and why “no” is weirdly profitable list-only, no-photos NYC nightlife lore + protecting celebrity regulars becoming a mom, still dressing like a menace, and your kids still rating you as “the coolest” mindset shifts: there are no rules, failing is learning, consistency = trust, and “hot” is a state of mind fashion talk: 90s mistress, vintage archives, lingerie-as-going-out, fur discourse, and why basics can still be cunty if your aura is right It’s the kind of episode that makes you want to go do something reckless (in a productive way), text your bartender friend, and buy a turtleneck + Louboutin boot combo immediately. Laura Stemmer Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/laurastemmer/?hl=en⁠ Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platforms Watch the full episode on YouTube Follow the host, Claire Vastola Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion⁠ Fashion networking & resources Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashion⁠ Substack: ⁠https://workinginfashion.substack.com⁠ Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon. GUESTLISTEN + WATCHFOLLOW + RESOURCES

    1h 2m

  4. 17/12/2025

    21. CONSISTENCY IS THE JOB

    CONSISTENCY IS THE JOBBUILDING A FASHION CAREER WITHOUT A ROADMAP In this solo episode of Through the Back Door, I talk about what consistency actually looks like when you’re building a non-traditional fashion career. After a week of being sick, exhausted, and close to skipping this recording altogether, I reflect on why showing up anyway matters, especially when you’re working inside the fashion industry while building your own brand on the side. From meeting followers who feel shut out of fashion, to navigating visibility, self-belief, and building something without permission, this episode is an honest look at the unglamorous part of building a career. If you’re balancing a fashion job with content creation, designing your own path, or building in the dark before anyone notices, this episode is for you. Consistency isn’t about motivation. It’s about keeping promises to yourself. Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platforms Watch the full episode on YouTube Follow the host, Claire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion Fashion networking & resourcesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.com Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

    7 min

  5. 10/12/2025

    20. Showing Up Before You’re Invited

    In the first-ever solo episode of Through the Back Door, we talk ambition — what it really looks like, why it gets labeled as “cringe,” and why it’s the real engine behind success in the fashion industry. We are celebrating episode number 20! I reflect on my week in New York fashion, from attending the Chanel watch party to noticing how fashion culture is becoming more community-driven, creator-led, and accessible. From there, I connect pop culture, history, and real life — pulling inspiration from The Gilded Age, the rise of fashion content creators, and the relentless networking that helped figures like Kim Kardashian long before their success felt inevitable. This episode is about owning what you want without apology, especially in fashion, where nothing is handed to you. We talk about taking up space before you’re invited, legitimizing yourself when no one gives you permission, and understanding that success is often engineered, not accidental. I wrap with a weekly inspiration list — what I’m reading, wearing, and loving — plus a quick update on what’s coming next for the podcast. If you’re a designer, creator, stylist, or anyone building something from the ground up, this episode is for you. Links & Mentions Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr Joe Dispenzahttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1401938094 Mary & Shelly – Guitar Strap Baghttps://maryandshelly.com Miista Bootshttps://www.miista.com Summer Fridays – Lip Butter Balmhttps://summerfridays.com Summer Fridays – Sheer Skin Tinthttps://summerfridays.com 🎧 Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTube Follow the host, Claire VastolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion Fashion networking & resourcesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashionSubstack: https://workinginfashion.substack.com Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

    19 min

  6. 06/11/2025

    19:Navigating Nonlinear Careers with Jessie Collier

    In this episode of Through the Back Door, Claire sits down with Jessie Collier, founder of Working Women Agency, to talk about personal branding, mindset shifts, and embracing nonlinear career paths in the creative world. Jessie shares how she turned confusion around traditional career advice into a mission-driven brand that helps women own their unique journeys. Together, they unpack the power of LinkedIn, the importance of soft skills, and how visibility and authenticity can open unexpected doors. The conversation dives into navigating pivots, using AI to scale creative work, and building a career that truly aligns with your values. Connect with Working Women Agency: Instagram: @workingwomenagency Follow Jessie: @jessiecollier Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and all major platforms Watch the full episode on YouTube Follow host Claire Vastola: @girlintofashion For fashion networking: @workinginfashion Read more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

    1h 10m

  7. 31/10/2025

    18.Riley Woodell on Paris Fashion Week + Modeling in 2025

    this episode, Claire sits down once again with model Riley Woodell to talk about what it really takes to build a career in fashion in 2025. Riley is one of those rare people we get to watch evolve in real time — blending modeling, social media, and genuine support for emerging designers in a way that feels transparent and refreshing. We talk about her experience at Paris Fashion Week this September — a pivotal moment in her career that showed how different the Paris scene is from New York. In Paris, you need representation; in New York, grit and showing up can still open doors. Riley also shares what it means to grow with a brand, describing how working with labels like Jane Wade feels like being part of a creative family — the same people, the same energy, season after season. We get into the behind-the-scenes realities of modeling, how she balances authenticity with opportunity, and her advice for anyone trying to make it in fashion today. 🎧 Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify + all major platforms👀 Watch the full episode on YouTube📡 Follow host Claire Vastola: @girlintofashion📬 For fashion networking: @workinginfashion📝 Read more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com💫 Follow guest Riley Woodell: @rileyhundleywoodell 💌 Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

    33 min

  8. 03/10/2025

    17. Nimay Ndolo on Fashion, Politics & Creating in 2025

    On this episode of Through the Back Door, I sit down with Nimay Ndolo — content creator, influencer, and all-around creative force — for a conversation that goes everywhere: fashion, social media, politics, spirituality, and even a little woo-woo. ✨ Nimay shares her unique perspective as a creator navigating today’s cultural landscape, and together we explore how style, identity, and expression collide with the digital world. It’s insightful, playful, and full of those unexpected turns that make the best conversations. Follow Nimay: @nimayndoeaux Listen on Spotify + all major platformsWatch the full episode on YouTube Follow host: @girlintofashionFor fashion networking: @workinginfashionRead more on Substack: workinginfashion.substack.com 💌 Subscribe, rate, and share if you loved the episode — more fashion deep dives coming soon.

    1h 21m
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About

Hey, it's Claire! We’re so excited to kick off Season 2 of Through the Back Door. We have some amazing guests lined up, plus a whole new series focusing on fashion and tech innovation. We're also diving into episodes about mindset and how to navigate this industry. I’m passionate about helping others learn from those who’ve paved the way so they can carve their own path. Whether through social media, fashion, or art, we all have the ability to create something big when we align vision with strategy. This season will give you insights into the inner workings of fashion, personal growth, and r

Information

  • Creator
    Claire Vastola
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Claire Vastola
  • Show Website
    Through The Back Door