Much like Natalie Alaverdian of A.W.A.K.E Mode, the fashion trajectory of Ukranian-born and London-based Natasha Zinko wasn't the most linear.
Training initially in Law (an aesthetic that couldn't be further away from that of Natasha today), it wasn’t until 2006 after moving to London that she paved another path within design. Listening to her inner compass, Natasha first tested the fashion waters on an Art and Design Foundation to follow this taster with Jewellery Design at Central Saint Martins. Fast-forward to 2015 and with her flagship boutique thriving on Maddox Street, we saw Natasha become an on-schedule London Fashion Week fixture. And boy, are we pleased she did – with each season delivering a kaleidoscopic and sculptural display.
Playful and eclectic, much like the spirit of the designer herself, Natasha's collections (of acid neon, marabou feathers in zesty citrus and deconstructed denim) bring a welcome dose of fun to the party.
What's the mantra you tell yourself first thing in the morning?
Be authentic today, be diverse today, be sustainable today.
How do you take your coffee?
I only drink Chamomile tea!
If you weren't doing what you're doing now, what would you be doing instead?
I’d open a fusion sushi/Ukrainian restaurant.
If you could only keep one outfit in your wardrobe, which would it be?
My underwear...
Who's one person you'd love to have dinner with?
There's two people: my husband and my son because they're my everything.
What's the main thing you would like to achieve this year?
Opening my new store on the corner of Stafford and Dover Street in Mayfair. I believe in the bricks-and-mortar experience.
Who would you want to record your audio autobiography, voice-wise? Catherine Deneuve. She is all woman and very confident.
Why did you end up doing what you do?
Because it comes from my heart. I originally studied and trained to be a lawyer but my heart wasn’t in it. My father was a tailor...It’s in my DNA!
Shop Natasha Zinko:
More 8Qs:
+ Katherine Hamnett: "I put a pin in a career book and it came up with Fashion Designer"
+ Tina Lutz: "I got a sewing machine from my parents and started sewing for the entire family"
+ Kim Winser: "My collection is all driven by women for women"
