Alumni News
Refinery 29 recently covered a DIR alum, Christina Fan's  new spring/summer collection for C/FAN. Christina launched C/FAN in 2008, before coming to the Incubator in 2010. The article, "C/FAN's Spring Line Gives the Kaleidoscope A Run For Its Money," accurately captured Christina's striking play of color and light.


"Designer Christina Fan looked to the South American Quechua dialect, particularly their word "k'anchaypacha," to guide her creative vision for her spring/summer collection. The definition: light is a dynamic element with its own life force. The interpretation: Rainbow Brite designs that definitely take on a life of their own on flowing caftans, frocks, and tunics"


Yet the collection truly needs no explanation, for the pieces speak for themselves. Read the article and take a look at the new collection here!

New DIR 2012

Chicago Fashion Incubator is pleased to introduce its two new Designers In Residence!

Christina Monley

Christina Monley, designer for Christina Karin, is a BU graduate in business and art history and has studied fashion design at the Art Institute of Chicago. Christina Karin is a modern women’s dress label.  The company is a luxury lifestyle brand defined by classic American glamour, edgy sophistication, and attainable price point. The brand strives to make women shine through exceptional product, design, and its commitment to unrivaled customer service.  All merchandise is produced domestically in the USA. A portion of all sales go toward various charity initiatives to help women and children around the world lead safer lives with greater opportunities to thrive. 

Pictured center, Christina Monley

Lagilelei Nadeau

Lagilelei was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York and Michigan State University for fashion design. While attending FIT, she interned with Nicole Romano, later working as an assistant fashion designer at Tahari and then Ammara. In 2010, she launched the Lagi Nadeau jewelry collection which has been featured in Marie Claire, Sugarlaws, and has accessorized fashion collections such as Kay Unger and Phoebe Couture. Lagi Nadeau label will expand into an inaugural womenswear line with the launch of her Spring 2013 collection. Nadeau is a strong proponent of American made products and makes each piece in the US. 

Lagi Nadeau Spring Preview Sketch