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

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

Author: Victoria Smith March 22, 2026 Duration: 46:46

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: @fashionandfounders

Podcast Substack: Fashion and Founders

Podcast Website: fashionandfounders.com

Podcast TikTok: @fashionandfounders

Podcast LinkedIn: Fashion and Founders

Podcast YouTube: Fashion and Founders

Podcast Links: Shop My


Follow Don’t Let Disco:

IG: @dontletdisco

Shop


Glamsquad:

Code: FASHIONANDFOUNDERS for $20 off


Rent the Runway:

Use code: RTRXVSMITH50 and get 50% off your first month!


Thanks for listening! 


Ever wonder how a clothing line actually gets made or what it takes to build a brand from a sketch to a global name? Fashion & Founders The Podcast, hosted by Victoria Smith, pulls back the curtain on the entire process. This isn't about seasonal trends or red carpet looks; it's a deep exploration of the machinery behind the glamour. Each episode features candid, long-form conversations with the founders, investors, and operators who are actively building the future of apparel and wearables. You'll hear real stories about the hurdles of fundraising, the complexities of ethical manufacturing, the explosive growth of resale, and the practical application of AI in design. Victoria guides discussions that connect the dots between capital, technology, and creativity, covering essential topics from sustainability to career navigation within the business of fashion. Tune in for a grounded perspective on an industry in constant flux, where ideas meet execution. This podcast delivers substance for anyone curious about the foundational work that makes fashion function.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 89

Fashion & Founders The Podcast
Podcast Episodes
11. Sourcing and Styling Vintage 101 with Isabel of 7drawers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:36
I am joined today by Isabel, a vintage curator and seller based in New York City, who runs the brand 7drawers.Isabel shares her best tips of sourcing and authenticating vintage designer pieces from heels to handbags. Vin…
9. Finding Meaning in Experiences not Things [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:00
Last episode of Season 1! Sheridan shares pieces that have travelled with her all over the world. She talks about the experiences she has created in her clothes and the memories her clothes hold, transporting her back to…