CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund: What It’s Really Like to be a Finalist

In this episode, Victoria sits down with Ashley Moubayed, founder of Don’t Let Disco and a CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund finalist. They discuss her journey from building the brand as a side hustle to becoming a full-time founder, and the realities of growing a fashion business. Ashley shares what it’s really like to go through the CFDA Fashion Fund, from the application process to the impact it has on credibility and growth. They also break down the cost of New York Fashion Week, navigating press, and why relationships and long-term partnerships are key in the industry. The conversation explores storytelling in fashion, misconceptions around jewelry, and why visibility doesn’t always equal value.Follow Fashion & Founders:Podcast IG: @fashionandfoundersPodcast Substack: Fashion and FoundersPodcast Website: fashionandfounders.comPodcast TikTok: @fashionandfoundersPodcast LinkedIn: Fashion and FoundersPodcast YouTube: Fashion and FoundersPodcast Links: Shop MyFollow Don’t Let Disco:IG: @dontletdiscoShopGlamsquad:Code: FASHIONANDFOUNDERS for $20 offRent the Runway:Use code: RTRXVSMITH50 and get 50% off your first month!Thanks for listening!