FIT School of Art and Design

Daniel Vosovic admitted to the fashion incubator

Rachel Ellner

The Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Fashion Incubator isn’t for preemies. The CFDA’s two-year program is designed to foster emerging designers with noted experience and recognition.  Fashion design grad Daniel Vosovic initially met all requirements but one.
photo of Daniel Vosovic courtesy of CFDA
Here’s what the CFDA looks for and here’s what Vosovic had to his name:
  • A designer of demonstrable talent, i.e. have garnered substantial editorial coverage

Vosovic’s resume: Four days after graduating FIT,  Vosovic began filming season two of Project Runway.  He was a finalist and fan favorite. His 13-piece collection, shown at New York’s Fashion Week, received glowing reviews. He designed chic uniforms for the hotel staff of NYLO and authored the book, “Fashion Inside Out: Daniel V’s Guide to How Style Happens from Inspiration to Runway and Beyond.”

  •  Be American or have established a primary design business in the US
Vosovic’s origins: Mosovic is a Michigan native. Prior to coming to FIT he attended Grand Rapids Community College.  He was a nationally ranked gymnast for 12 years. But who couldn’t use a leg up?
  • Be in business for a minimum of two years
The glitch:  After Project Runway, Vosovic went on to hold various head designer and assistant positions for four and a half years before launching his own line in 2010.  But Vosovic’s label was two months shy of Incubator’s two-year requirement. He was a preemie.
  • Be able to occupy CFDA’s Fashion Incubator studio space; relocation expenses, if applicable, will be the responsibility of the tenant.

 Let’s just say: Vosovic must appreciate good working conditions. “Well, [the Incubator] has air-conditioning, which is always plus!” Vosovic told Ally Betkar from The Cut. He also is reminded of a response once given by  supermodel Karen Elson: “‘The reality is, in fashion everyone’s going home to a fourth-floor walk-up in Brooklyn…’”

Serendipity:  One of the original 10 designers chose to decline involvement in the Incubator program. By this time, Vosovic meets the two-year minimum requirement and is soon invited to join one of the best “nurseries” for new fashion designers!

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity and to have been chosen to represent the program,” says Vosovic. “In just the few short months I’ve been a part of the CFDA Incubator my business plan has been refined, my design focus sharpened and my brand’s visibility raised. I can’t wait to see what two years brings!”

All designs by Daniel Vosovic. Photos used with permission.

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