Natalie Chan embarked on her fashion career in 2001 where she studied pattern making and garment construction at the Auckland Institute of Technology, New Zealand. Upon completion of her degree, Natalie undertook an apprenticeship for Trelise Cooper which culminated in workroom and retail positions at esteemed fashion house Trelise Cooper from as well as creative collaborations with The Cupboard.
Natalie next focussed her efforts on nurturing her own brand from her workroom in Parnell which was her creative enclave. By 2005 it was clear that a demand for Natalie Chan’s flair for femininity and courageous use of colour, therefore her workroom grew to double as a retail store. Later in 2007, Natalie’s beloved workroom was once again restored to its original form and now sits above a separate retail store filled with one-off outfits, gowns and millinery headwear made from the highest quality fabrics which are all created, designed in house and in New Zealand.
Natalie is well known and well established as a couture milliner, a skilful passion which was an early incorporation to designs. Couture millinery headpieces and fascinators are now synonymous with the brand. Natalie’s endeavours to encourage headwear as a fashion staple for the races, weddings and special events. This unapologetic feminine approach to fashion has set Natalie Chan apart from the crowd and continues to be a sought after designer included in magazine, paper and editorial features and campaigns.
Natalie’s influences are eclectic with a common theme of appreciation and admiration for classic fashion, beauty, architecture and décor of yesteryear. Each range is inspired by vintage, feminine and theatrical elements complemented by Natalie’s passion of world travel.
