Imagine a typical CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund scenario. In preparation for their first meeting, a Fashion Fund mentor and designer finalist prepare a set of important questions for one another to learn and maximize this unique opportunity.

YNAP President, Luxury & Fashion, NET-A-PORTER, MR PORTER & THE OUTNET Alison Loehnis is mentor to LaQuan Smith.

Here, we asked each to share the questions they have for one another.

Alison Loehnis to LaQuan Smith

Who do you consider as your peers and what sets you apart from them?

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your career so far? 

What factors are you considering when building your brand?

Why does glamour feel so relevant right now?

What change would you like to see in the fashion industry?

LaQuan Smith to Alison Loehnis

What is your best advice to a designer who is growing their business?

What are your best e-commerce marketing tips?

What do we as a fashion community have to do better?

How has Covid impacted the landscape of your business and what have you learned from it?