Episode 2

Print vs Digital Media The Truth About Coexistence from Maurice Mullen

Published on: 3rd January, 2025

David M. Watts: Hello, fashion enthusiasts! Welcome to another exciting episode of "Just A Fashion Minute," the podcast where we explore the latest ideas in fashion and shine a spotlight on the incredible talents shaping our industry. I'm your host, David M. Watts, and I couldn't be more thrilled to have you join us today.

I have a truly fascinating guest lined up for this episode—Maurice Mullen. Maurice, who you may know from his influential roles at the London Evening Standard and ES Magazine, shares unparalleled insights from his extensive career in fashion publishing. We dive deep into some compelling topics, including the current state of print media, the evolving role of AI in fashion, and the indelible importance of quality journalism in today's digital age.

One of the standout moments in our conversation is Maurice's recounting of an unforgettable day at the Ascot races, where he unknowingly spent time with Rocco Ritchie, Madonna's son. Maurice also opens up about his early career decisions, moving from a potential legal career in Northern Ireland to following his passion for fashion in London. His stories are both enlightening and entertaining!

We'll also touch upon some pressing issues in the fashion world, from the impact of digital media on traditional magazines to Maurice's thoughts on the future of fashion publications. His views on the complementary relationship between print and digital media are sure to spark some thoughts.

And as always, we have our "Just A Fashion Minute News Round Up," where we bring you the latest buzz in the fashion world. This week, we'll be covering Jacquemus' quirky marketing strategies, Glenn Martens' transformation of Diesel into a lifestyle brand, and all the speculation surrounding Chanel's next creative director.

Don't forget to subscribe to "Just A Fashion Minute" on your podcasting app of choice so you never miss out on our latest episodes. Now, let's dive into this week's fascinating discussion with Maurice Mullen.

Timestamps & Topics

00:00 - Introduction and Just A Fashion Minute News Round-up: Updates on Jacquemus store openings, Diesel's collaboration with H&M, and Chanel creative director speculation.

05:01 - Early Fashion Interest: Maurice discusses buying Vogue magazines as a teenager in Northern Ireland during the mid-seventies.

07:54 - Career Transition: His journey from a legal career in Northern Ireland to London's publishing industry in the early eighties.

13:18 - Definition of Fashion: Maurice defines fashion as nonverbal communication, a language people use to convey how they want to be perceived.

15:57 - State of Print Media: Discussion on print media's resilience, with 13.6 million UK adults still reading daily print publications.

20:00 - Digital vs Print: Analysis of how print and digital media coexist rather than compete.

28:11 - Role of Professional Journalism: The importance of professional journalists in filtering accurate information from misinformation.

31:35 - AI in Fashion Publishing: Discussion on AI's role as an enabler rather than a replacement for creative professionals.

42:12 - Quick Fire Questions: Maurice answers questions about embarrassing fashion moments, industry unsung heroes, and his outfit.

Guest Bio

Maurice Mullen is a prominent figure in fashion publishing with over three decades of experience. Until recently, he served as the head of luxury and fashion at the London Evening Standard Newspaper and ES Magazine. His career began unconventionally, transitioning from a legal background in Northern Ireland to London's publishing industry in the 1980s. Known for his expertise in luxury and fashion media, Mullen has worked with countless luxury brands globally and is a respected voice in fashion education, frequently speaking to students about the industry. He is Deputy Chair of the Graduate Fashion Foundation, the largest showcase of BA fashion in the world. Despite the digital revolution, he remains a strong advocate for print media's enduring value and the importance of quality journalism in fashion.

Guest Links

Maurice Mullen does not maintain any social media presence but can be found through professional networks and speaking engagements in the fashion industry.