Natalie Pond
For most young girls, dressing their dolls and toys and, much to their older brother's chagrin, Action-Men, in fancy and creative outfits, complete with co-ordinated accessories, is a more-than-happy way to while away the hours. Few, however, succeed in making the transition from a little girl playing dress-up, to bona fide fashion designer, hailed as one of the UK's rising talents. South Yorkshire born and bred Natalie Pond has successfully crossed the divide.
Following the completion of her fashion course at Doncaster College in 2002, Natalie realised her dream of pursuing a career in fashion design by enrolling on, and completing, a Honours degree at the University of Westminster in London.
After securing esteemed work placements with top London designer Julien Macdonald and an award-winning couture bridal designer, Natalie was awarded the prestigious honour of debuting at Graduate Fashion Week, securing admiration and commendation across-the-board.
"Natalie Pond achieved something that had been very much lacking in her peers' collection: sex appeal." (Vogue.com)
Having secured publicity in the London Evening Standard and on fuk.co.uk, Natalie was formally acknowledged by Fashion Forecast Magazine, a publication reserved only for talented, up and coming designers.
After graduation and making the bold decision to leave the bright lights of the capital, Natalie moved back to her native Yorkshire, establishing her own label 'Natalie Pond' immediately upon her return.
"My womenswear label is hip, quirky, sexy and edgy." says Natalie of her collections.
"I keep a close eye on trends but the emphasis for me is setting new trends in keeping with current styles."
For Natalie, the characteristics setting apart her label from countless others is the attention to detail paid to each and every garment. Consequently, each piece is handmade and only a limited number of each design is available, ensuring the Natalie Pond label becomes renowned for its exclusivity.
"My work is constantly changing and evolving....This is what I love to do and what I am passionate about and I want everybody to be able to see it and be a part of it. Each piece is created and handmade with love."
Natalie's original goal was the design and creation of garments in true 'Natalie Pond'-style; garments which stand out from the norm, grabbing attention. After many months of planning, setting up and hard work, Natalie's dream is now firmly within her sights. In May 2006, the Natalie Pond website launched and the label is currently being stocked at the Corn Exchange in Leeds. However, not one to become complacent, Natalie is already looking to the future; new collections and new directions.
"There are so many things I want for the future. I am now looking into where I can stock my label; in boutiques and on websites as well as selling through my own website which is something I am planning for the near future."
"And then what?"
"Then I have plans to launch more lines; maternity wear, children's clothing, bridal wear and a vintage line as well as accessories and jewellery! I believe there's no limit to what you can achieve if you believe in yourself and work hard".
