From Client to CEO: The Woman Who Saved a Fashion House

Dr. Niklas Richter · 2026-10-22

Nicky Vankets spent over 25 years building his name as a Belgian fashion designer. But behind the success were tough years, a family business bankruptcy, and even a moment when his suitcase was packed and ready to go. Then Daphné Vandenplas came along. She saw not just the designer but what House of Vankets could become. Today, she's CEO, and together they're combining creativity and entrepreneurship in a completely different way. In this episode, they open up about what it really takes: cash flow and profitability, hiring and firing, going bankrupt, trusting the wrong people, starting over, and admitting you can't do everything yourself. They also share their big plans for House of Vankets and why Nicky is already thinking about a company that must one day run without him. It's a conversation about entrepreneurship as it truly is: building, making mistakes, losing people, getting back up, and sometimes realizing it's time to do things completely differently. ### The Realities of Running a Fashion Business Running a fashion house isn't just about design. Daphné and Nicky dive into the nitty-gritty of cash flow and profitability. They discuss the challenges of managing staff—both hiring and letting people go. And they don't shy away from the tough stuff: the bankruptcy of Nicky's family business and the hard lesson of trusting the wrong people. But it's not all doom and gloom. They also talk about the importance of starting over and the liberating realization that you can't do everything yourself. It's a candid look at what it takes to keep a business afloat. ### Building for the Future Looking ahead, Daphné and Nicky have big plans for House of Vankets. They're thinking about growth, sustainability, and creating a brand that can thrive without its founder. Nicky is already preparing for a future where the company runs without him—a sign of true entrepreneurial foresight. > "Sometimes you have to let go of what you know to discover what you're truly capable of." – Daphné Vandenplas ### Lessons from the Trenches For anyone building a business, their story offers valuable takeaways: - **Cash is king:** No matter how creative you are, cash flow and profitability are non-negotiable. - **Hire slow, fire fast:** Building a team is crucial, but don't be afraid to make tough calls when someone isn't the right fit. - **Trust, but verify:** Trusting the wrong people can cost you dearly. Always do your due diligence. - **Know your limits:** You can't do it all. Recognizing when to delegate or bring in a partner is a sign of strength, not weakness. - **Plan for succession:** Even if you're not leaving soon, building a company that can outlast you is smart strategy. ### Why This Matters for Entrepreneurs This isn't just a story about fashion. It's a masterclass in resilience and adaptation. Whether you're in retail, tech, or services, the principles are the same. You'll face setbacks, make mistakes, and have to pivot. But with the right mindset and the right people, you can turn things around. Daphné and Nicky's journey shows that sometimes the best way to grow is to step back and let someone else take the reins. It's a reminder that entrepreneurship is a team sport—and that even the most creative minds need a strategic partner to thrive. So if you're an entrepreneur feeling stuck or overwhelmed, take a page from their book. Surround yourself with people who see your vision, be honest about your challenges, and never stop learning. Because building a business is hard, but with the right approach, it's also incredibly rewarding.