Brand Highlights: Natasha Zinko Shares Her Journey And Successes

By Bethany Berkeley

Born in Odesa, Ukraine, Natasha Zinko, a London-based fashion designer has continuously taken the world by storm.

Her designs are known for their unique blend of femininity and power, and she has been praised for her innovative use of materials and her ability to create clothes that are both beautiful and wearable. Zinko's career has been nothing short of meteoric, and she is now considered one of the most exciting and influential designers of her generation.

However, her entry into the industry was far from the ''I wanna be a fashion designer'' route, Zinko studied, trained, and worked as a Lawyer in Odesa until she moved to London in 2005 and everything changed. We managed to catch up with Natashas Zinko, despite her busy schedule and she shared her journey and success in the industry...so far!

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Bethany- So how did it all begin? What as your entry point into fashion?

Natasha: For as long as I can remember I always had an affinity to style. I was a bit of a hip-hop kid growing up. Randomly one day I applied to the Chelsea School of Design and my portfolio was accepted. I moved to London in 2005 to start my studies. I applied for transfer to Central Saint Martins after completing my foundation courses. I graduated with honours in Fine Jewellery in 2009. What started as ad hoc designs for myself and friends soon caught the attention of Joan Burstein from Browns and Sarah Stewart from Maxfield and my journey as a Designer started. In June 2015, I became an official member of the British Fashion Council.

Bethany- You have more than 10 years in the industry, what would you say is the greatest lesson you've learnt? And your greatest success?

Natasha: I learn the most from my failures. This is a tough industry. It takes a lot of strength, humility, and money to survive. My recent successes include my new flagship store here in Soho, London at 17 Brewer Street, which opened in April 2023. And I custom-dressed Doja Cat for her North American tour.

Bethany- What are your thoughts on the state of fashion now?

Natasha: I have learnt how to quickly pivot. There are so many things happening everywhere all at once. I stay committed to my visions.

''My recent successes include my new flagship store here in Soho, London at 17 Brewer Street, which opened in April 2023. And I custom-dressed Doja Cat for her North American tour.''

Bethany- What would you say plays a big part in your design process? Which part of the process is your favourite?

Natasha: The first fitting seeing all my ideas come to life is the most important part of my process. The 3-dimensional aspect. My favourite parts are after I have the idea for a new collection and the moment when I become fixated/addicted to that concept. Regarding production, I personally check the first samples to ensure my quality/idea is always the best and not lost.

Bethany- What struggles have you faced on your journey so far and how did you overcome them?

Natasha: The pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Now the war in Israel. I think the best way to define how I overcome every day is resilience. Owning my company, managing my teams, and the daily ups and downs. Not giving up. Bringing all little moments of hope during all this turmoil. Seeing a client in my store purchase my Grand Office Blouse and the happiness in their eyes.

Bethany- What advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time to the beginning of your journey?

Natasha: I am happy right where I am right now. Why would I want to do it all over again?!

Bethany- What's next for Natasha Zinko?

Natasha: Come see my next show during LFW in February.