For the 2021 edition of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, Tom Kalenderian, Chairman EZCO, Strategic Advisor Retail & Merchandising, of the Ermenegildo Zegna Corp. serves as mentor to designer finalist. They each have some key questions for each other, and we asked them to share these with us!

Tom Kalenderian to Kenneth Nicholson

What was the most valuable takeaway, for you, from our various calls and meetings thus far; do you feel that our discussions leave you better prepared to achieve success with your business?

How do you feel knowing that you accomplished the many projects centered around NYFW; are you more confident and capable to multitask than in prior years?

How did it make you feel to be asked to dress two VIPs for the Met Gala; and then be able to attend the Met Gala yourself?

When we met on July 7^th, you said one of your goals was to have your collection hanging in Retail Stores; do you feel that the work we’ve done together has brought you closer to that dream?

What is your biggest challenge in business and how can I help you more to tackle this?

Kenneth Nicholson to Tom Kalenderian

What was it that drew you into the industry to begin with?

What is one of your most memorable fashion experiences, if you could narrow it down as you have had so many? 

Is there anything that you have learned about me or the work that surprised you that you didn’t expect?

As you look upon the fashion landscape today what is something that you think is missing? 

What excites you most about the future of fashion?