In today’s episode of the My First Time with Tommy Dorfman podcast, hosted by multitalented trans activist, actress, and director Tommy Dorfman, fashion visionary Hillary Taymour opens up about her inaugural experience at the prestigious Met Gala — and what it’s really like snagging a coveted invite to the infamous event.

GRAZIA sat down with the podcast host herself to take you inside the intimate dialogue that unfolded between Dorfman and Taymour, unraveling the layers of vulnerability, creativity, and inclusivity that define the ethos of Collina Strada — as well as dishing all the deets on the reality of a first time at *the* elusive Met Gala.

The Story Behind the My First Time Podcast

Dorfman, driven by curiosity and a passion for showcasing diverse queer experiences, launched the podcast as a platform for intimate conversations. Dorfman reflects on the podcast’s inception, sharing with GRAZIA, “I think [it’s] curiosity really, at my core, and trying to understand how unique everyone is individually, but then how relatable so many first times are.

“I think a lot about transitions and moments in life that are transitional. And I find that first times, big and small, and overcoming something or walking through the flames of fear, whatever it is, can be a really radical shift for everybody.”

As a trans activist, Dorfman crafts an environment where guests, including close friend Hillary Taymour, feel safe to share openly. The podcast becomes a dynamic platform not only for storytelling but for fostering connections within the diverse tapestry of queer experiences and beyond.

Hillary Taymour’s “First Time” at the Met Gala

Dorfman and Taymour’s friendship extends beyond the podcast booth. Their bond, forged at a Collina Strada fashion show serendipitously, has evolved into a testament to creative synergy, shared experiences, and a mutual celebration of each other’s journeys.

Dorfman’s conversation with the Collina Strada founder for the My First Time podcast showcases the vulnerability of stepping into the fashion world’s spotlight at the Met Gala for the first time, especially for a designer like Taymour, whose brand challenges conventions in both fashion and sustainability.

Dorfman reflects on her conversation with Taymour, sharing, “To step through those doors and on those stairs, what is that experience like? It can be really vulnerable to put yourself out there, especially if you’re a designer. Most fashion designers, they kind of, to use film and TV references, are behind the camera.”

Taymour’s distinctive and eclectic fashion, known for pushing boundaries, plays a significant role in the conversation and her experience at the Met. Dorfman elaborates on the influence of Collina Strada’s worldview, stating, “Her clothes are so playful. So it’s kind of like any conversation with her about passion and the world is going to have that kind of vulnerability, that openness, that excitement, that creativity, and it’s really joyful, which I think is important.”

According to Dorfman, Taymour is skilled in juxtapositions, her ability to subvert expectations, and her fearless approach to breaking fashion norms. And, of course, Taymour did just that at the Met Gala.

Garnering inspiration from the theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” for the 2021 Met, Taymour channeled her inner horse girl, fueling a fearless approach to both her and Kim Petra’s fashion looks.

“There is a true chutzpah in that response to what is expected. Right? But also, I think, really taking a theme and making it your own,” Dorfman notes.

The conversation between Dorfman and Taymour continues to dive into the true essence of what it’s like to be inside the Met Gala and the experiences that are had (which includes a run-in with the Kardashian squad and being face-to-face with Anna Wintour herself).

Taymour also had a huge role to play in the 2021 Met, having been responsible for designing all of the costumes for the Met Gala performance.

But the episode not only captures Taymour’s Met Gala experience; it serves as a testament to her accomplishments and the impact of her work in the fashion industry — so much so that her designs are featured within the Met itself.

Dorfman shares her hopes for the takeaway for listeners who tune into this episode, stating, “Truly anything is possible. I think a girl who grew up on a farm in California, starting a fashion brand and keeping that business not just afloat, but nurturing it and growing it over the course of a decade or more and having these big moments — still quite young in her career — is very powerful and empowering. And I left being like, yeah, right, we can do anything! I think that’s really special.”

Beyond the Podcast for Tommy Dorfman and Hillary Taymour

Beyond the podcast, the dynamic duo has collaborated on the creation of a limited-edition multipurpose hair bow available at shop.clubcurran.com. This exclusive piece showcases the artistic synergy between the two trailblazers and is a testament to the unique offerings available at Club Curran, an exclusively queer and trans marketplace for apparel, beauty, and skincare.

Tommy Dorfman’s interview with Hillary Taymour has created a nuanced exploration of identity, ambition, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of fighting for representation in the fashion world. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that “anything is possible,” as Dorfman herself says, and that even the most seemingly insignificant “first times” can shape our lives and inspire others.