A Life In Fashion

Natalia Altewai

A Life In Fashion|Natalia Altewai
From her role as Design Director at Totême in Stockholm to taking the helm as Creative Director for Tommy Hilfiger on the runways of New York, Natalia Altewai’s journey through the fashion world has captured the attention of fashion critics and customers alike. While we look forward to her next major showcase in September, join us as we explore her favourite fashion moments, personal style and design inspiration.
What first inspired your interest in fashion, and how did you begin your career in this industry?

My interest in fashion was first sparked at a young age when I would watch my mother sew dresses and flip through her fashion magazines, admiring the creativity and artistry behind the designs. I will never forget finding her fashion sketches one day and being blown away by them. I was always drawn to the way fashion could express individuality. I began my career in the fashion industry by pursuing a degree in fashion design from a reputable fashion school. During my studies, I interned at various fashion houses and gained valuable hands-on experience in design, production, and styling. These internships provided me with a solid foundation and a network of industry contacts. After graduating, I started working as a design assistant at a big fashion label, where I honed my skills and learned the ins and outs of the industry. Over time, I worked my way up to a creative director level, where I had the opportunity to lead design teams and contribute to the development of new collections.

Throughout my career, I have continued to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in fashion and networking with people in the industry. My passion for fashion and dedication to my craft have been key factors in my success in the industry.
"Miuccia Prada has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Her fearlessness, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her vision serve as a constant source of inspiration for me."
Who were your role models or influences when you started out in the industry?

Miuccia Prada is a true visionary in the fashion industry, and she has been a major source of inspiration and a role model for me in my own fashion journey. Her bold and unconventional approach to design, coupled with her strong business acumen, has made her such a trailblazer in the industry. I admire Miuccia Prada for her ability to seamlessly blend art, culture, and fashion in her collections. She has a unique way of pushing boundaries and challenging traditional notions of beauty and style, which has always resonated with me. Her designs are not only visually stunning but also intellectually stimulating, adding depth and meaning to the fashion world.

As a female designer and businesswoman, Miuccia Prada has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Her fearlessness, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her vision serve as a constant source of inspiration for me.

What three words would you use to describe your style and how has it evolved over the years?

My personal style can be best described as comfortable, easy, and oversized. I prioritise comfort in my clothing choices, opting for pieces that allow me to move freely and feel at ease throughout the day. I gravitate towards easy, effortless silhouettes that require minimal effort to style, making getting dressed a breeze. Additionally, I have a penchant for oversized garments that offer a relaxed and laid-back vibe, allowing me to feel both comfortable and stylish in my day-to-day attire. These three words encapsulate the essence of my personal style, reflecting my preference for casual, relaxed, and effortlessly chic looks.
"Classic fashion pieces serve as the foundation of a versatile and timeless wardrobe, allowing me to create a variety of stylish looks that stand the test of time."
Are there any particular fashion eras or movements that you feel a strong connection to?

I have a deep appreciation and love for the Helmut Lang, Armani, Calvin Klein, and 1990s fashion era for several reasons. Firstly, Helmut Lang's minimalist and avant-garde designs resonated with me due to their clean lines, architectural shapes, and innovative use of materials. Lang's ability to create modern, edgy pieces that were both timeless and cutting-edge captivated me and inspired my own style evolution. Overall, the 1990s fashion era holds a special allure for me due to its diverse range of trends, styles, and designers that have shaped the way we approach fashion today. The combination of Helmut Lang's edgy minimalism, Armani's timeless elegance, Calvin Klein's modern simplicity, and the overall aesthetic of the 1990s era has influenced my personal style and continues to inspire me as I navigate the ever-evolving world of fashion.

What are some of your favourite fashion pieces or accessories that you can't live without?

Shoes and bags!
I can honestly say that I hoard shoes from The Row. Really embarrassing but very true unfortunately. I believe that investing in quality footwear is essential, as comfortable and well-made shoes can elevate any look.

What do you look for when shopping preloved?

Classics.
Classic pieces have timeless appeal and never go out of style, making them a smart and sustainable choice for my wardrobe. I believe that classic fashion pieces serve as the foundation of a versatile and timeless wardrobe, allowing me to create a variety of stylish looks that stand the test of time. Investing in classic fashion pieces also aligns with my personal style philosophy of quality over quantity. I value craftsmanship, durability, and timeless design in the pieces I choose to add to my wardrobe.

What are your favourite pieces on Reluxe right now?

I’m not a Chanel girl at all but I really have my eye on the foldable tote bag in jersey. Also the black crocodile Constance from Hermès - my ultimate dream bag.
What does a typical day look like for you right now?

Currently, my typical day starts very early in the morning with a cup of matcha to kickstart my day. I then make my way to the gym to do an hour of weights with my PT. After a good training session I review my schedule and prioritise tasks for the day ahead, whether it's work-related projects, personal commitments, or other responsibilities. I currently travel between two countries every Monday through Thursday, so the gym has become very important for my mental health and well-being.

What are some of your most memorable moments in your career so far?

I've had many memorable fashion moments, but one that stands out is when, at Totême, we launched several highly anticipated collections that received rave reviews from fashion critics and customers alike. Being part of the creative process, from concept development to product launch, and seeing the positive impact of my work on the brand's success is truly a rewarding experience. Overall, my time working for Totême provided numerous opportunities for memorable fashion moments, whether it was showcasing the brand's latest designs, collaborating with talented creatives, or making a mark in the competitive fashion industry. These experiences have contributed to my growth as a professional in the fashion world and left a lasting impact on my career journey. Another unforgettable and impactful moment was my runway show for Tommy Hilfiger at Grand Central Station in NYC, which redefined the brand’s identity. The iconic setting of Grand Central Station served as the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion, setting the stage for a showcase that would leave a lasting impression on the fashion industry. That was a great moment for me and I’m also looking forward to the next one very soon in September.

How do you stay connected to the ever-evolving fashion industry and culture?

It’s not easy when you have a family and travel back and forth between two countries but I think fashion has a way of keeping its community connected. I think all of us seek one another, if it’s through work meetings or events we always seem to stay involved with each other and we always seem to know what the next big thing in fashion will be. I always say that what makes us fashion people and why we belong to this culture is because we must have tentacles. We can feel things before they happen.
How do your personal experiences and background influence your work in beauty, fashion, and culture?

My personal experiences and background play a significant role in shaping my work in beauty, fashion, and culture. Growing up in a multicultural environment has exposed me to a diverse range of styles, traditions, and perspectives, which I draw upon to create innovative and inclusive content. Additionally, my own journey of self-discovery and embracing my identity has instilled in me a passion for empowering others to express themselves authentically through fashion and beauty. Overall, my unique background has equipped me with a deep understanding of the intersectionality of beauty, fashion, and culture, allowing me to create meaningful and impactful work that resonates with a wide audience.

How do you define success in your career, and what achievements are you most proud of?

Success for me is when you inspire other creatives and they want to hear your point of view. I think my most proud achievements have been the ones where I have been able to lead people in what I believed was the right direction and they have believed 100% in it and given me their full support.

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