Noah Johnson on Highsnobiety, Menswear Trends, and the Future of Media

Transition to Highsnobiety EIC

• 🚀 Noah Johnson discusses his new role as Editor-in-Chief of Highsnobiety, emphasizing a vision aligned with the brand's culture and attitude.
• 💼 He notes the shift from traditional editorial roles to a more CEO-like position, involving business oversight and impact on the bottom line.
• 💡 Johnson highlights his strength in identifying and nurturing talent, citing his track record of working with and hiring successful individuals.

The Evolving Media Landscape

• 📱 The conversation touches on the decline of engagement on traditional social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, with a shift towards platforms like Substack for more substantive content.
• ✍️ Johnson expresses a preference for writing and editing over public-facing roles like panels, aiming to lead by example and focus on editorial excellence.
• 📈 He acknowledges the increasing importance of affiliate links and product-driven content in media, while stressing the need for integrity and transparency.

Menswear Trends and Consumer Behavior

• 🧥 Discussions revolve around current menswear trends, including the rise of brands like A.P.C. and the enduring appeal of quality, wearable clothing.
• 🧐 The concept of "good clothes" is explored, emphasizing garments that feel better and are distinct from obvious vintage references.
• 📉 Johnson notes the shift away from overt status symbols towards a more "if you know, you know" aesthetic, with brands like Orlebar Brown and Evan Kinori succeeding due to their unique textiles and styling.

Personal Style and Brand Affinities

• 👖 Evan Kinori is frequently mentioned as a favorite designer, with Johnson appreciating the brand's attention to detail, quality, and shared East Coast skateboarding background.
• 👟 Discussions touch on various brands like A.P.C., James Coward, and the appeal of brands that offer unique textiles and a distinct aesthetic.
• 🎾 Tennis and skating are highlighted as significant influences on personal style and brand appreciation, with an emphasis on flat-soled shoes and quality gear.

The Future of Content and Media Consumption

• 🤖 The impact of AI on content creation is briefly discussed, with Johnson expressing a lack of personal use but acknowledging its growing significance.
• 🤳 The rise of content creators and the shift towards video-first platforms like TikTok are acknowledged, though Johnson aims to maintain a higher standard of storytelling and editorial integrity.
• 🌍 Johnson expresses a desire to fix social media's lack of engagement and direct traffic to publications, hoping for a return to platforms that foster community and direct interaction.