House of Style

House of Style with Grant Alexander

Style isn't what you wear. It's how you build your life. House of Style is a show about the habits, decisions, and taste that shape an intentional life: work, health, money, creativity, relationships, home, the city you live in, and yes, clothes. Host Grant Alexander has spent 13 years as a stylist, dressing founders, executives and athletes for the moments that matter. The strange part is that almost none of that work is really about clothing. It's about how someone wants to be seen, what they've decided matters, and the small choices they make on any ordinary day. So that's the conversation here, with builders, artists, musicians, chefs, and people who are very good at something, and every episode is built to be useful: a real story, a few ideas worth stealing, and one thing you can actually do this week. No hustle. No hacks. No product pushing. Just thoughtful conversations and useful style. Filmed in Chicago. Watch on YouTube @thehouseofstyle and find the guides, notes and full archive at houseofstyle.com.

  1. 6d ago

    BAILEN: Every Show Should Feel Like a Dinner Party

    BAILEN is made up of siblings Daniel, David, and Julia Bailen, and they have spent a decade figuring out how to be a family and a band at the same time. They arrived at House of Style having just finished a conversation in the car about whether to stay the thing people first liked them for or evolve. That question runs through the whole episode. They have more than enough songs for another record and tracked the new material live in their basement, just the three of them. They tour in a minivan on purpose, because keeping it lean is what makes it sustainable. Julia makes a lot of her own clothes and buys hats that do not fit. David punched Daniel over a pot of coffee the morning of this taping, and they settle it on mic. Along the way: what a white T-shirt should actually cost, why most people should get rid of most of their closet, clothing as armor, and Julia's line about wanting every show to feel like a dinner party. They also stayed and played four songs live, just acoustic, in the room. You can watch all four at youtube.com/@thehouseofstyle CHAPTERS0:00 The conversation in the car 3:56 Julia joins the band at 17 7:07 Three writers, no leader 11:37 Hearing past your first impression 15:15 One word for what you want people to feel 18:41 Real, released, refreshed 22:48 Playing a new song for the first time 26:20 Stay the same or evolve 29:44 Julia buys a hat that does not fit 33:39 Why most people should cut most of their closet 37:34 What a white T-shirt should actually cost 42:51 Dressing three people for one stage 47:18 David's curls and where the budget goes 50:53 Touring in a minivan on purpose 55:14 Julia on being allowed to be a dynamic person 58:05 Clothing as armor 1:02:19 Leaving the label 1:07:42 BAILEN's style in three words 1:12:07 If a stranger wrote your next album 1:16:56 Letting go of chasing attention 1:19:53 Consistency over virality 1:23:07 If the next record were a house 1:26:07 Every show should feel like a dinner party 1:29:41 The coffee incident 1:34:23 Great style starts when STYLE SESSIONSWatch BAILEN perform Kansas Tornado, BRCA (Nothing Takes Me Down), Something Tells Me and Some Things Like You live: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIRLtrocJr8kMXOmJcqF2XRf7GCoNR84f MORE BAILENThe Quickfire Round, a bonus episode: https://youtu.be/RxfgZzVZD_M ABOUTHouse of Style is a show about the habits, decisions, and taste that shape an intentional life. Hosted by Grant Alexander, filmed in Chicago. houseofstyle.com Instagram: @houseofstylehq If this one lands for you, following the show and leaving a review is the single most useful thing you can do for it.

    BAILEN: Every Show Should Feel Like a Dinner Party
  2. Apr 7

    Lulu Simon on Expressing Yourself When You Don’t Have the Words

    House of Style Podcast: Lulu Simon on Expressing Yourself When You Don’t Have the Words Most people don’t struggle because they have nothing to say… they struggle because they don’t know how to say it. That’s what this conversation with Lulu Simon gets to at its core. How to Express Yourself When You Don’t Have the WordsLulu grew up surrounded by music (the daughter of music icons Paul Simon and Edie Brickell!) but she didn’t step into it quickly, loudly, or entitled. She taught herself guitar in private, wrote songs no one heard, and slowly built a voice that feels completely her own. What’s interesting is nothing about it was forced. It was developed through instinct, taste, and a willingness to follow what felt real instead of what made sense on paper. That, coupled with a willingness to experiment, adjust, grow, and go at her own pace, makes her stylish as hell in our book. In this episode, we talk about what it actually looks like to express yourself when you don’t have the words yet… and why that’s where the best work usually comes from. What You’ll Take Away From This EpisodeHow Lulu found her voice without trying to sound like anyone elseWhy “genre is a prison” and how labels can limit creativityThe difference between making art for an audience vs. making it for yourselfWriting through emotions you don’t fully understand yetHer song “Summer Dog” and what losing her childhood pet revealed about growing up, change, and letting goThe pressure to constantly release vs. creating something that actually lastsLearning to trust your taste... even (or especially) when it doesn’t fit a box There’s also a bigger theme running underneath all of this… You can’t fake honesty. People feel it when something is real, and they feel it when it’s not. And most of the time, the thing you’re trying to say doesn’t come out clean or perfect — it comes out messy, unclear, and unfinished. But that’s the point. That’s where your voice actually starts. If you’re trying to figure out your style — whether that’s in music, work, or just how you live — this one’s for you.

    Lulu Simon on Expressing Yourself When You Don’t Have the Words
  3. 06/03/2025

    JOHNNYSWIM: Real Talk on Marriage, Music, Mental Health & Style

    Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano, the dynamic duo behind JOHNNYSWIM, dive into a heartfelt and laughter-filled conversation that feels like a warm hug. Right off the bat, they tackle the realness of creativity and the importance of showing up for each other and their art amidst life's chaos. They share insights on how inspiration often sneaks up while you're grinding away, proving that real work breeds real magic. With candid reflections on their latest album, "When the War Is Over," they explore vulnerability, the beauty of community, and the challenges of balancing family life with a passion for music. It’s an open-hearted chat that reminds listeners to embrace the messy, honest moments that make life—and love—so beautifully complex. Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind JOHNNYSWIM, dive deep into the heart of creativity, family, and the challenges of life in this open-hearted conversation. They share the laughter and love that fuels their music and relationship, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates with listeners. The couple reflects on their latest album, *When the War Is Over*, which they describe as their most vulnerable work yet. Abner discusses the inspiration behind their songs, emphasizing the importance of hard work and the sweet surprises that come from dedication. Amanda adds her perspective on how their familial bond influences their music, reminding us that creativity often springs from the depths of personal experience. The episode is a delightful blend of humor and honesty, encouraging listeners to embrace their journeys and find beauty in the mundane moments of life. As they share insights on keeping the spark alive in both marriage and artistry, it’s clear that their love story is as much a part of their music as the notes they play. Takeaways: Abner and Amanda emphasize that inspiration often strikes when one is immersed in the creative process, suggesting that hard work leads to unexpected bursts of creativity. The couple discusses how their latest album, 'When the War Is Over', reflects their most vulnerable and honest work, stemming from deep personal experiences and growth. They believe that true style isn't just about appearance but is rooted in how one lives and engages with the world, highlighting the importance of authenticity in art and life. Abner shares a poignant thought that confronting life's challenges head-on can lead to growth, suggesting that it's okay to sit with discomfort instead of rushing to resolve it.

    JOHNNYSWIM: Real Talk on Marriage, Music, Mental Health & Style
  4. 02/13/2025

    Stop Blaming Fashion Week: The Hidden Forces Destroying Fashion & Retail

    Ready to flip the script on fashion’s broken system? Press play, open your mind, and buckle up for an episode guaranteed to challenge what you thought you knew about runways, retail, and the real forces pulling fashion’s strings. In this riveting solo episode, Grant pulls back the shimmering curtain of the global fashion scene to reveal a hard-hitting truth: it’s not the runway shows themselves that we should be demonizing — it’s the leadership behind them. While Fashion Week has become an easy target for critics, conveniently painted as the villain of wastefulness and carbon-heavy spectacle, this episode takes aim at the real architects of the chaos. Listen in as Grant shines a spotlight on the executives, the boardrooms, and the old-guard leadership at fashion’s top houses and conglomerates — those who perpetuate relentless seasonal churn, push for overproduction, and funnel eye-popping marketing budgets into attention-grabbing stunts that overshadow genuine creativity. From LVMH to Kering, these global giants feed us the familiar narrative that more glitz and more runway hype equate to necessary “innovation” and progress. But behind those massive sets, behind the hyperrealistic lion heads at Schiaparelli or the behemoth wooden sculptures at Chanel, is a system fueled by seasonal obsolescence and driven by the incessant need to keep us buying. And guess who foots the bill for these marketing ploys? Consumers, in the form of skyrocketing luxury prices that no longer guarantee quality or craftsmanship. Throughout the episode, we get a candid look at how House of Style is daring to do things differently. Grant explains that the brand aims to shatter the mold of “two or four seasons per year,” opting instead for a year-round approach that values personal expression and thoughtful design. It’s a bold attempt to break free from the vicious cycle that has made fast fashion a byproduct of runway signals. After all, Shein and Zara often look to high-end labels for cues on the next fleeting trend—trends that, ironically, even the big luxury conglomerates blame on fast fashion. But here’s the twist: this isn’t a call to shut down Fashion Week altogether. This show emphasizes that the spectacle itself—complete with runway theatrics and glitzy front rows — can be a fun, artful celebration. The real problem is the old-guard mindset that uses Fashion Week as a lever to maintain an unstoppable machine of consumption. The leadership at department stores, major holding companies, and top-tier fashion houses are all complicit in perpetuating the notion that newness is king, driving younger and smaller labels to the margins with unattainable costs and impossible speed-to-market demands. Key Takeaways: Leadership Under Fire: This episode zeroes in on the CEOs, board members, and creative directors under crushing pressure to deliver seasonal novelty at any cost. They’re the ones fueling waste, not just in high-end circles but across the entire consumer landscape.Redefining “Runway Culture”: Instead of scrapping the spectacle, we should focus on reorganizing its foundations. If leaders stopped obsessing over seasonal obsolescence, runway shows could once again become showcases of real artistry and innovation.From Fast Fashion to Luxury Overdrive: Fast fashion is often singled out as the biggest polluter, yet big luxury brands set the trends, supply the signals, and secretly benefit from the culture of disposable style.House of Style’s Vision: Demonstrating that there is a workable alternative to the “churn and burn” model. The platform isn’t about cranking out more and more clothing lines — it’s about championing style that fits real life, forging deeper connections between designers and consumers, and moving away from the rigid seasonal cycle.Empowering Local and Emerging Designers: Rather than waiting for some “celebrity brand” to legitimize smaller markets, we should champion the new wave of designers in places like Chicago, Miami, Austin, Atlanta, and Nashville. Why? Because they hold the future of fashion in their hands, even if the old guard refuses to acknowledge it. Why You Should Listen: A Courageous Call-Out: Grant doesn’t mince words when naming the conglomerates — LVMH, Kering, and more — responsible for the very system they claim to be reforming with hollow sustainability promises.Insider Perspective: Learn how department stores’ colossal minimum orders suffocate smaller brands, and how runway stunts are carefully orchestrated to keep everyone distracted from the real issues.Actionable Optimism: By the end of the episode, you’ll discover that genuine solutions do exist. We can maintain the art and creativity of fashion while capping production, celebrating new voices, and ending the cycle of forced hype.A Vision for the Future: House of Style paves the way for a model where innovation isn’t measured by how many new lines you can cram into a year, but by how well you can meet the authentic needs of real people. Grant’s Mission With This Episode: This is not your run-of-the-mill fashion commentary. It’s a passionate takedown of the status quo, fueled by the conviction that real change is possible — but it must start at the top. Throughout the episode, Grant takes a stand, naming names and questioning motives. We’re talking about more than just runway extravaganzas; we’re confronting the systemic issues that allow the leadership of billion-dollar giants to keep peddling “green” solutions on one hand while ramping up production quotas with the other. Grant is among the few willing to step up, challenge Goliath, and fight for a world where fashion can be both exciting and sustainable. How You Can Join the Revolution: Spread the Word: Share this episode with friends who are tired of the lip-service approach to sustainability.Champion New Designers: Keep an eye out for emerging talent in your city and support them. They’re often overshadowed by corporate giants, but they carry the seeds of real innovation.Explore House of Style: Curious about how to unshackle fashion from traditional seasons? Tune into previous episodes or reach out directly to learn how House of Style is building a blueprint for year-round creativity.Demand Accountability: Let the LVMHs and Kerings of the world know that flash alone won’t cut it anymore. Ask for concrete proof of reduced production volumes and genuine backing for experimental design. Final Word: It’s time to lift the veil on who’s really benefiting from the non-stop churn. The next time you hear someone say, “Fashion Week must die,” remember: that’s just a convenient decoy. The real culprits — those orchestrating behind the scenes — have to be held accountable. In this episode, you’ll hear precisely how Grant proposes to do that and why House of Style just might be the beacon of hope we need. Join us for a conversation that merges a fiery critique with a refreshing vision for a new fashion future — one where creativity isn’t stifled by corporate demands, and style is personal, not disposable.

    Stop Blaming Fashion Week: The Hidden Forces Destroying Fashion & Retail
  5. 02/06/2025

    Creating Beauty: From Model to Mom to Fashion Entrepreneur

    Success in the world of fashion isn’t just about the glitz and glamour; it’s about creating genuine connections and uplifting others. In this chat, Grant Alexander sits down with his friend Jessica Klaas, an emerging bridal designer shaking things up with her label, River and Rose. They dive into Jessica’s journey from being a model to launching her own brand, which focuses on bespoke bridal and evening wear that not only looks stunning but also empowers the women who wear it. With a sprinkle of humor and heartfelt stories, they discuss everything from overcoming imposter syndrome to the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Jess's vision is all about crafting a welcoming space where everyone leaves feeling gorgeous, and it’s clear she’s set to make a significant impact in the bridal scene. As the episode kicks off, Grant welcomes Jessica, a dear friend and a rising star in the fashion world, to House of Style. Their rapport is infectious, filled with laughter and light-hearted banter as they reminisce about their first meeting on a photo shoot. Jessica's transition from model to designer is at the forefront, and she passionately shares her commitment to creating bespoke bridal wear that not only looks stunning but also empowers women. The conversation flows seamlessly from her early days of sneaking into art classes to her current role as a mother balancing family life with her burgeoning career. Listeners gain insight into the intricacies of starting a fashion brand, the importance of personal connections, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a fast-paced industry. Jessica’s vision for River and Rose is as inspiring as it is aspirational, promising an exciting future filled with unique designs and heartfelt moments. Takeaways: Jessica Klaas emphasizes that fashion is about expressing your unique identity rather than just about trends. Her journey from modeling to entrepreneurship highlights the importance of following your passions, even when the path is unconventional. The conversation between Grant and Jessica is filled with humor and warmth, showcasing their deep friendship and mutual support over the years. Jessica's focus on empowering women through her designs demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact in the bridal industry. The episode reveals how balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is a challenge but also a source of inspiration for Jessica. Listeners are encouraged to pursue their own paths with the understanding that success is subjective and personal.

    Creating Beauty: From Model to Mom to Fashion Entrepreneur
  6. 01/31/2025

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 5/5): The Business Model & Strategy

    SummaryHouse of Style isn’t just dreaming about changing the retail game; they’re laying down a blueprint that’s as bold as it is brilliant! This episode dives into the sophisticated yet out-of-the-box business strategies that will not only redefine how people shop but also keep investors wondering how they can get a slice of this revolutionary pie. With a dynamic ecosystem that intertwines fashion, technology, and sustainability, they’re crafting an experience that’s less like a store and more like stepping into a stylish dream! From curated collections to immersive events, the revenue streams are as diverse as the outfits on display. So, if you’re curious about how this venture plans to turn heads and profits, buckle up and join the ride! Show NotesPicture a world where shopping transcends the mundane and enters the realm of the extraordinary. Grant Alexander, the charismatic host of House of Style, paints a vivid picture of a retail revolution that goes beyond traditional norms. This isn't merely about selling clothes; it's about creating an immersive ecosystem that redefines how we engage with fashion, sustainability, and technology. With House of Style, each visit transforms into a unique experience—think live performances, interactive workshops, and stylish lounges where sipping wine while getting styled is the norm. He dives deep into the innovative business model that supports this vision, highlighting the multiple revenue streams that make House of Style not just a lofty dream but a sustainable business plan. From curated collections that increase customer satisfaction to a membership model that fosters loyalty and reduces environmental impacts, Grant lays it all out in a way that’s both sophisticated and playful. Investors looking for a smart, strategic approach will find themselves intrigued by the potential for growth and profitability that this out-of-the-box concept offers. Takeaways House of Style is not just another retail store; it's a revolutionary ecosystem that transforms shopping. The business model includes diverse revenue streams like curated collections and a membership system, ensuring steady income. By merging technology with retail experiences, House of Style aims to redefine customer engagement and satisfaction. Sustainability is a core principle, turning eco-friendly practices into a competitive advantage that attracts modern consumers. House of Style also plans to capitalize on media and content creation, turning podcasts and social media into revenue generators. Investors can expect a bold $40 million investment aimed at launching a movement rather than just a business.

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 5/5): The Business Model & Strategy
  7. 01/29/2025

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 4/5): Sustainability, People, & Leadership

    House of Style Explained, Part 4: Sustainability, People & Leadership SummaryHouse of Style is leading a transformative movement in retail by prioritizing people and sustainability. This episode explores how the company redefines leadership and business practices, treating every individual — from customers to employees and partners — with genuine care and respect. Grant Alexander highlights the outdated norms of traditional retail leadership and emphasizes the importance of innovative, ethical policies that not only benefit the planet but also cultivate loyalty and trust among consumers. By embracing transparency and a commitment to sustainability, House of Style is setting new benchmarks for the industry. Join us as we delve into the exciting changes that are reshaping the future of retail and proving that purpose and profit can coexist beautifully. Episode DetailsHouse of Style presents a bold vision for the future of retail, where shopping is not just about acquiring goods, but about fostering change and caring for the planet. Grant Alexander articulates this transformative potential, emphasizing that businesses can — and should — lead with purpose. He asserts that by prioritizing sustainability and ethical leadership, companies can create significant impacts that resonate with people and the environment alike. The narrative challenges conventional wisdom that views sustainability as merely an expense, instead framing it as a strategic advantage that builds customer trust and loyalty. Throughout the episode, Grant introduces listeners to the innovative practices and policies at House of Style. He describes immersive environments designed to engage customers with sustainable fashion that is both timeless and ethically produced. This commitment to quality and transparency not only attracts conscious consumers but also empowers them to become advocates for the brand. By focusing on a circular economy and reducing waste, House of Style positions itself as a pioneer in responsible retail, ready to redefine what it means to be a successful brand in today's world. Leadership is another key theme, with Grant advocating for a new paradigm that rids itself of outdated practices in favor of creativity and long-term vision. He emphasizes the importance of treating employees with dignity and respect, equating a happy workforce with exceptional customer service. This holistic approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also contributes to a sustainable and profitable business model. The episode culminates in an inspiring message: that businesses can blend purpose with profit, creating a future where retail not only serves consumers but also nurtures the planet and its people. House of Style is depicted as a transformative force, leading the charge toward a brighter, more sustainable future in retail. Takeaways: House of Style believes that shopping can transform lives and heal the planet. Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is the backbone of House of Style operations. Leadership at House of Style prioritizes long-term impact over short-term profitability. For real. Not just talk like what's going on today. Treating employees with respect leads to exceptional service and loyal customers. Our sustainability initiatives not only reduce waste but also save money in the long run. House of Style is redefining retail by integrating innovative technology with ethical practices.

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 4/5): Sustainability, People, & Leadership
  8. 01/28/2025

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 3/5): Technology, AI, & Looks-Based Shopping

    SummaryUnlock the secrets of revolutionary technology that’s transforming the shopping experience at House of Style. This episode dives into the game-changing AI-powered e-wardrobe and introduces the innovative concept of Looks-Based Shopping, designed to enhance your fashion journey both online and in-store. Imagine a world where your closet knows your style, suggesting perfect outfits tailored to your preferences and even the weather. With a focus on personalization and seamless integration, House of Style is redefining how we approach retail, making it smarter and more enjoyable. Join us for an exciting exploration of how these tools are not just enhancing lives but also revolutionizing the retail landscape. Imagine a world where your closet not only holds your clothes but actively helps you style them. At House of Style, this is not just a dream — it's a reality powered by cutting-edge technology. Grant Alexander takes listeners on a journey through the innovative landscape of AI-driven personalization and looks-based shopping that are set to redefine the retail experience. The episode goes into the transformative impact of the AI-powered e-wardrobe, which allows users to seamlessly integrate their existing wardrobe with new fashion choices, enhancing decision-making and eliminating the chaos that often accompanies shopping. Through the lens of [made-up] Sarah, a fashion lover frustrated by traditional shopping, the technology is revealed to not only simplify outfits but also to recommend missing wardrobe essentials tailored to individual styles. This personalized assistant creates a joyful shopping experience, turning what was once a chore into an adventure. Description:The episode also introduces listeners to the concept of Looks-Based Shopping, emphasizing the shift from browsing racks of clothes to viewing fully styled outfits curated for personal taste. This approach not only makes shopping smarter but also encourages consumers to envision how different pieces fit into their broader style narrative — inviting them to rethink their wardrobe as a cohesive whole rather than disparate items. The seamless integration of online and in-store experiences is highlighted through the story of [made up] MacKenzie, who uses the House of Style app to navigate her shopping journey effortlessly, bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds. As the discussion unfolds, Grant emphasizes the importance of data analytics in crafting a personalized shopping journey that resonates with each customer's unique fingerprint. With AI recommendations based on preferences, past purchases, and even mood, House of Style is not just enhancing convenience but building trust and sustainability into the retail model. The episode culminates in a vision for the future of shopping that is not only personal and inspiring but also environmentally conscious, urging listeners to embrace this style revolution. Takeaways: The AI powered E Wardrobe transforms how you interact with your closet, making outfit selection seamless and enjoyable. Looks based shopping revolutionizes the retail experience by showcasing styled outfits instead of individual items, personalizing your shopping journey. House of Style's omnichannel approach combines online and in-store experiences for a cohesive shopping experience like no other. Data analytics and AI work to personalize recommendations, ensuring your shopping journey feels unique and tailored to you. Sustainability is a focus, with efforts to reduce waste and ensure environmentally friendly fashion choices. House of Style aims to make shopping feel personal and inspiring, not just a mundane task. Visit Revolution In Retail for more information on the entire business. Email hello@houseofstyle.com for general information or requests, or investor@houseofstyle.com for investment inquiries. See more from Grant on Instagram and TikTok.

    "Revolution in Retail" Explained (Part 3/5): Technology, AI, & Looks-Based Shopping
5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Style isn't what you wear. It's how you build your life. House of Style is a show about the habits, decisions, and taste that shape an intentional life: work, health, money, creativity, relationships, home, the city you live in, and yes, clothes. Host Grant Alexander has spent 13 years as a stylist, dressing founders, executives and athletes for the moments that matter. The strange part is that almost none of that work is really about clothing. It's about how someone wants to be seen, what they've decided matters, and the small choices they make on any ordinary day. So that's the conversation here, with builders, artists, musicians, chefs, and people who are very good at something, and every episode is built to be useful: a real story, a few ideas worth stealing, and one thing you can actually do this week. No hustle. No hacks. No product pushing. Just thoughtful conversations and useful style. Filmed in Chicago. Watch on YouTube @thehouseofstyle and find the guides, notes and full archive at houseofstyle.com.

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