You have 0 items in your cart
Nathalie’s exceptional career has spanned over twenty years within the luxury fashion industry. Born in Montreal, Nathalie studied graphic art and haute – couture draping before studying fashion design in Paris. An international award led her to New York, where she studied marketing and merchandising before embarking upon a further eight years in the United States designing for luxury brands such as Max Azria.
Nathalie has collaborated with the most pioneering figures in the industry, including the visionary genius Tom Ford, for the eponymous 1990s brand Gucci where she was appointed Senior Womenswear Designer. Later she joined the legendary Valentino as Collections Director where with her team, she was responsible for the execution of fifteen Valentino collections.
Nathalie’s most challenging position came at Nina Ricci where she adopted truly global status in managing their entire re-branding and forward business strategy. Not only was she responsible for the inception of Ready-to-Wear, Perfume and Accessories lines but was also required to employ a completely new team and deliver visual in-store content internationally. Her role as Artistic Director was pivotal in the future success of the company, when eighteen months later Nina Ricci had regained its status as a highly desirable and profitable brand.
Nathalie subsequently took the realm as Creative Director for luxury Italian brands Ferragamo and Piazza Siempione respectively, before launching her own consultancy firm NG Consulting in Paris in 2009 where she resides with her family.
Do you have a treasured piece of clothing you have kept for a special reason?
Yes I do, a Comme des Garçons black velvet dress. It is knee length, asymmetric and could almost be inspired by Charles James, nodding to the influence of 1950s couturier. As a piece, it is both cultural and timeless, fits perfectly and makes a quiet statement.
Can you tell us the story behind this item?
The dress has followed me throughout the years as I bought it in 1986 when I thought Comme des Garçons was a truly innovative label and extremely pioneering. It was perfect then and it is still perfect now. I last wore it recently to Roberto Cavalli’s 40th Birthday party in Paris!
How do you feel when you wear this?
Feminine and powerful.
Do you have a favourite designer?
I prefer different pieces from different designers. I admire Phoebe Philo for statement pieces, as her designs are intellectual, thoughtful and extremely modern. I also like the freshness of labels like Carven though.
I respect any designers, artists, writers and film directors who present a clear point of view and follow their own, unique path.
Which woman is of most inspiration to you?
There are so many but certainly one of them is Hilary Clinton for her applied intelligence, courage and perseverance.
If you could reflect upon your younger self when you bought your dress, what advice would you offer yourself?
Follow your convictions and don’t be afraid. And think twice before you say something!
Stephanie Barker
Images: Courtesy of Nathalie Gervais
