The Who What Wear Podcast: Fashion Analyst Mandy Lee, aka @oldloserinbrooklyn, Talks Met Gala Predictions, 2026 Trend Forecasts, and AI in the Fashion Industry
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In this episode of the Who What Wear podcast, senior fashion editor Tara Gonzalez sits down with renowned fashion trend analyst Mandy Lee, aka @oldloserinbrooklyn, to discuss her 2026 trend forecasts, the impact of AI on fashion, and her highly anticipated Met Gala predictions. Mandy traces her journey from corporate planning and forecasting in beauty and tech to becoming a leading voice in short-form fashion analysis after being laid off during the pandemic and discovering TikTok. She reflects on how the industry has evolved, emphasizing the growing importance of emotional storytelling, cultural context, and authenticity in brand identity. Key themes from Fall Winter 2026 include movement, texture, weather-specific clothing like clear raincoats, and the rise of utility-driven pieces such as aprons—seen as both a nod to working women and a practical, multifunctional trend. Mandy critiques the overuse of AI in fashion content, arguing that human insight and cultural awareness are irreplaceable, and praises brands like Margiela and Marc Jacobs for their authentic, emotionally resonant storytelling. She also shares her excitement for the 2026 Met Gala theme 'Costume Art,' predicting standout looks inspired by pregnancy, anatomical forms, and avant-garde techniques like beeswax-drenched gowns. Mandy highlights under-the-radar designers like Pauline Dujancourt as rising stars and reflects on her own journey of resilience, authenticity, and the power of having a distinct point of view in a saturated digital landscape.
Authenticity and emotional storytelling are now more critical than ever in fashion—brands must build worlds, not just sell clothes.
Utility, texture, and weather-responsive design (like clear raincoats) will dominate 2026, driven by climate concerns and consumer desire for tangible, meaningful garments.
AI-generated fashion content lacks cultural context and emotional depth—human insight remains irreplaceable in trend forecasting.
The Met Gala 2026 theme 'Costume Art' opens the door for bold, body-focused, and artistic interpretations, with beeswax-draped gowns and anatomical silhouettes poised to shine.
Aprons are not just a retro nod but a versatile, functional, and empowering fashion statement reflecting both utility and a reclamation of the working woman’s identity.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and Mandy Lee's Journey
Tara Gonzalez welcomes Mandy Lee, fashion analyst and social media sensation, to discuss her career evolution from corporate forecasting to becoming a leading voice in fashion trend analysis. Mandy shares how her layoff during the pandemic led her to TikTok, where she found her niche in trend forecasting and analysis.
The Rise of Human-Centered Trend Forecasting
“I think something that I'm able to do that a computer could never do is be able to add the cultural context.”
Fall Winter 2026 Trend Takeaways: Movement, Texture, and Value
“We've also been in the process of losing the mid-tier consumer as well. You're either super rich or saving up for Aritzia.”
The Emotional Power of Fashion: World-Building and Connection
“You want to be part of this amazing moment that's happening in fashion.”
The Apron Trend: Utility, Conservatism, and Subversion
Mandy analyzes the apron trend as both a nod to conservative values and a celebration of the working woman. She highlights its versatility and cultural resonance, citing Miu Miu’s recent runway and the powerful image of hundreds of women in aprons at a film screening.
“I think something that I'm able to do that a computer could never do is be able to add the cultural context.”
“You want to be part of this amazing moment that's happening in fashion.”
“I'm so excited about the pregnancy one. Like I'm so thrilled that there's going to be like a spotlight on that.”
Host
Guest
Mandy Lee
person
Tara Gonzalez
person
Who What Wear
organization
TikTok
organization
Chanel
brand
The Devil Wears Prada
media
Dior
brand
Miu Miu
brand
Margiela
brand
Jonathan Anderson
person
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