Articles of Interest

High Heels

High heels trace a complex history of gender, status, and pain that reveals how fashion reflects societal shifts.

The costume designer behind The Devil Wears Prada 2

Costume designer Molly Rogers shares how her downtown club kid roots shaped the iconic looks of Sex and the City.

Taxes and Tariffs

Wealthy Americans avoid taxes by living off loans against hoarded assets, shifting the burden onto working consumers.

Betty & Veronica

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the surprising evolution of Betty and Veronica from Archie comic book characters into enduring fashion icons. While the duo is now synonymous with distinct aesthetic archetypes, their path to becoming style influencers was far from intentional. The episode examines how these fictional teenagers inadvertently shaped fashion trends and defined the girl-next-door versus the glamorous socialite tropes that remain prevalent in popular culture today. Listeners will uncover the series of happy accidents and industry shifts that transformed these illustrated wardrobes into genuine style templates. By tracing the history of the comic, the narrative reveals how the characters transitioned from simple ink drawings to influential figures in the sartorial world. This thoughtful deep dive offers a fascinating look at the intersection of graphic storytelling and the ever-changing landscape of modern fashion.

The Great American Designer

In this episode of Articles of Interest, the narrative explores the foundations of American fashion design. While the country is relatively young, the history of its signature style is even more nascent, often defined by living titans like Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, and Tommy Hilfiger. However, these icons did not build their empires in a vacuum. The episode pivots to the visionary designer Claire McCardell, whose groundbreaking work served as the blueprint for the modern American aesthetic. Listeners will delve into McCardell’s influence, discovering how her innovative approach to functionality and comfort paved the way for the industry leaders who followed. It is an insightful look at the historical roots of the quintessential American look and the trailblazing designer who helped define a national identity through clothing.

Push-Up Contest

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman presents a compelling feature originally produced by Signal Hill that explores the personal and cultural legacy of the modern brassiere. The narrative centers on the creator of the push-up bra, specifically examining how this iconic piece of intimate apparel fundamentally reshaped the fashion industry and beauty standards. Through the lens of the inventor’s own daughter, the episode delves into the complicated relationship between family history and the objects that define our everyday lives. Listeners can expect a thoughtful, deeply researched exploration of how a simple structural invention evolved into a global phenomenon. By blending intimate storytelling with historical inquiry, the episode invites the audience to consider how the clothes we wear influence our identity and the ways we perceive our own bodies in a changing world.

Clerical Collar

A minister reclaims the clerical collar as a symbol of moral authority and a tool for protection against ICE.

Fantasy of Fashion, Revisited

In this revisited episode of Articles of Interest, the narrative explores the complex relationship between fashion and moments of global crisis. By examining how societal pressures and uncertain times influence the way individuals dress, the host invites listeners to consider clothing as more than mere fabric, but as a direct reflection of our collective psyche. While building upon a previously released story, this installment integrates fresh insights and updates that provide a clearer perspective on how style evolves when the world feels unpredictable. Listeners can expect a thoughtful, deep dive into the historical and cultural underpinnings of personal expression during turbulent eras. This exploration offers an engaging look at why fashion remains a vital, albeit often overlooked, tool for navigating change, making it a compelling listen for those interested in the intersections of history, sociology, and design.

Made in USA

In this compelling episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman revisits a definitive piece of fashion journalism originally produced for NPR’s Planet Money. The episode takes listeners on a deep dive into the complex, global journey behind the creation of a simple t-shirt. By tracing the manufacturing process from raw materials to the final product, the investigation peels back the layers of the garment industry to reveal how clothing is actually produced in the modern world. Listeners can expect a thoughtful, narrative-driven exploration that examines the realities of ethical production and the true cost of our wardrobe staples. This episode serves as a masterclass in fashion reporting, challenging the audience to reconsider the labels on their clothes and the often invisible systems that sustain the global apparel market.

Gear: Epilogue (with Jad Abumrad)

In this special epilogue to the Gear series, host Avery Trufelman sits down for an intimate and reflective conversation with veteran broadcaster Jad Abumrad. Recorded live at Ludlow House, the episode pivots from the show’s typical investigative narrative style to a more personal, open-ended dialogue. Abumrad probes Trufelman on the motivations behind her deep dive into the objects we own, prompting a thoughtful discussion about the psychological weight of our possessions and the ways they shape our identities. Listeners can expect a candid exploration of the creative process behind the series, as well as new insights into the specific gear and gaming experiences that inspired Trufelman’s research. It serves as a poignant conclusion to the season, offering a philosophical look at the human connection to the things we choose to carry through life.

Gear: Chapter 7

In this installment of Articles of Interest, the show turns its analytical gaze toward the evolving relationship between military equipment and civilian life. The episode explores the cultural divide between soldiers and the general public, questioning whether this separation is an inevitable byproduct of modern society or something that could be bridged. By examining how military gear has permeated everyday fashion and utility, the host unpacks the aesthetic and practical implications of this intersection. Listeners can expect a thought-provoking investigation into how tactical apparel has transcended its original purpose to become a staple of contemporary wardrobes. Through historical context and cultural critique, the episode challenges the audience to consider the deeper social connections embedded in the clothing we wear and how these items reflect the complex relationship between those who serve and the society they represent.

Gear: Chapter 6

In this installment of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman delves into the fascinating world of Gorpcore, a fashion trend that has transformed rugged outdoor survival gear into everyday urban wear. The episode explores the unexpected origins of this aesthetic, examining how utilitarian clothing designed for camping and mountaineering transitioned from the wilderness to the high-fashion runways and city streets. Listeners will gain insight into the cultural shifts that made functional, technical apparel a global style phenomenon. By tracing the history and evolution of this practical trend, the show highlights how performance-driven design has redefined modern wardrobe staples. This episode offers a thoughtful look at why the gear originally intended for extreme weather and remote expeditions has become a dominant force in contemporary personal style, blending technical necessity with mainstream fashion sensibility.

Gear: Chapter 5

In this chapter of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the paradoxical nature of camouflage and the human desire to simultaneously blend into the environment and stand out from the crowd. The episode dives deep into the history and cultural significance of patterns, examining how specific designs have shifted from functional utility on the battlefield to iconic statements in the world of high fashion. Listeners can expect a thoughtful investigation into the psychological motivations behind what we wear and how the concept of concealment has been subverted by designers to create bold visual impact. Through a blend of historical context and cultural analysis, the episode unpacks how camouflage evolved from a military necessity into a ubiquitous staple of modern street style, challenging common perceptions about the purpose and evolution of our clothing choices.

Gear: Chapter 4

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the fascinating evolution of the classic field jacket. Once a strictly utilitarian garment issued to soldiers, the field jacket underwent a dramatic cultural transformation following the end of the military draft. As the jacket transitioned from the front lines to the closets of civilians, it became an iconic symbol of a shifting social landscape. Listeners will learn how this piece of military surplus became synonymous with yuppie culture and high-end fashion, shedding its rugged, combat-ready origins in favor of urban sophistication. By tracing the jacket's journey through American history, the episode examines how functional clothing often takes on new meanings and aesthetics long after its original purpose has faded. It is a compelling look at the intersection of military history, social change, and the lasting impact of personal style.

Gear: Chapter 3

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the evolution of outdoor gear and the shifting culture surrounding who the great outdoors is truly for. Moving away from the long-standing archetype of the rugged, macho explorer, the narrative examines how modern outdoor apparel and equipment have become increasingly designed for comfort and accessibility. By tracing the history of these garments, the episode highlights how the industry has pivoted to cater to a much broader demographic, including families and even infants. Listeners can expect an insightful investigation into how the clothing we wear influences our relationship with nature and how the branding of the wilderness has transformed over time. It is a compelling look at the intersection of fashion, identity, and the changing way society perceives and participates in the great outdoors.

Gear: Chapter 2

In this episode of Articles of Interest, the exploration of gear continues by examining the evolution of functional design. The narrative traces how the concept of high-performance apparel transitioned from simple utility to a discipline defined by rigorous scientific testing and systematic research. Central to this transformation is the story of the field jacket, which serves as a primary case study for how military innovation influenced modern clothing standards. Listeners will discover the history behind this iconic garment and learn how technical specifications and field trials fundamentally changed the way we think about the clothes we wear for work and adventure. This episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of historical development and the precision engineering that defines the gear we rely on today, providing a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship behind everyday utility wear.

Gear: Chapter 1

In the season premiere of Articles of Interest, the series explores the deep and often surprising connection between military history and the clothes we wear today. This episode, titled Gear: Chapter 1, investigates how the American military was formed and examines the origins of its early uniform standards. Listeners are taken on a journey to understand how battlefield necessity influenced garment design, effectively shaping the functional aesthetic that defines much of our modern wardrobe. By tracing the evolution of military apparel, the episode highlights how soldiers were dressed throughout history and how those practical innovations eventually permeated civilian fashion. This insightful look into sartorial origins sets the stage for a broader discussion on how state-driven design continues to impact our daily attire, offering a compelling perspective on the hidden histories woven into every garment we own.

Gear: Prologue

In this prologue episode of the acclaimed series Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman sets the stage for a new exploration into the world of gear. Moving beyond the typical focus on aesthetics and trends, this season dives deep into the functional items we rely on every day, examining how the things we carry, wear, and use define our identities and our interactions with the world. Listeners can expect a thoughtful investigation into the design, culture, and history behind the objects that accompany us through life. By unpacking the utility and significance of everyday equipment, the show invites its audience to reconsider their relationship with their possessions. This episode serves as an intriguing introduction to a season that promises to blend intellectual curiosity with narrative storytelling, perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of material culture and modern living.

Zippers

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the fascinating history and mechanical marvel of the zipper. Often overlooked as a mundane component of everyday clothing, the zipper is actually an intricate machine that has fundamentally changed how we dress and interact with our garments. Trufelman traces the long, winding road of its invention, detailing the engineering hurdles and design iterations required to make this fastening technology both reliable and ubiquitous. Listeners will gain a new appreciation for the clever physics packed into the small teeth and sliders they use daily. By unpacking the story behind this minor miracle of modern manufacturing, the episode reveals how a simple invention transformed fashion and industrial design, proving that even the most common objects possess a complex and captivating narrative hidden in plain sight.

Sunglasses

In this episode of Articles of Interest, host Avery Trufelman explores the fascinating evolution of sunglasses, tracing their transformation from a niche medical necessity to a ubiquitous fashion statement. Listeners are invited to discover how protective eyewear migrated from the specialized requirements of early aviation and ophthalmology into the mainstream cultural lexicon. The narrative examines the symbolic power of the accessory, revealing how sunglasses have been utilized throughout history to project mystery, status, and cool detachment. Through historical insights and design analysis, the episode uncovers why these frames became an essential staple in modern wardrobes. By blending historical research with an investigation into style, this installment offers a compelling look at how a simple tool for light sensitivity reshaped the landscape of contemporary fashion and identity.