Mr. Nicholson is a classic serial entrepreneur. His first, last, and only "job" was way back in 1983. Since then, he has started a number of successful software and service companies that have focused on filling unique niches in the financial services market.

Having sold the last of his operating companies, Mr. Nicholson found himself seeking something new when, through a series of coincidences, he uncovered what appeared to be a void in the menswear market. Unlike underwear, swimwear, and casual dress, men's sleepwear (and, by extension, in-home /lounge wear) was one category that was still languishing in the style of the 1950's.

While entering the apparel business might have seemed to be a tremendous departure from his previous endeavors, Mr. Nicholson perceived that there were, in fact, great similarities. The creation of DFDesigns, like Mr. Nicholson's financial service entities before it, leveraged his talent in recognizing under-served markets and putting together talented teams of people to create products to meet those needs.

Mr. Nicholson was joined at the inception by his long-time friend and perennial business partner, Jo-Ann Robotti. Next to join the team was Gloria McPike Tamlyn, bringing to DFDesigns her extensive career experience in the fashion industry. At once, Ms McPike Tamlyn undertook to research the market and determine if the perceived gap did, in fact, exist.

Her research showed there was indeed an opportunity to update traditional "pajamas" and further revealed a distinct lack of high quality men's robes beyond the traditional heavy terrycloth and inexpensive cotton-flannel styles.

At that point, Mr. Nicholson turned to another friend, Daniel Stoiano, asking him to join the team as creative director. And finally, by way of Mr. Stoiano, DFDesigns secured Bobby Burns, another fashion veteran and a long time associate of Mr. Stoiano. Mr. Burns has over 20 years experience as a pattern maker and designer and agreed enthusiastically to come on board as DFDesigns' in-house designer.