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With Melbourne Cup fever set to hit next week, expect fascinator sales to soar - but milliner, designer and stylist Natalie Chan thinks they should be worn anytime, anywhere, not just at the races.
Chan has been making quirky headpieces since graduating from AUT, launching her label and opening her own boutique in Parnell. "I first started making headpieces to complement my fashion shows and shoots. I always saw them in old 1950s movies, vintage photos and in international fashion shows and I fell in love with them. I always thought they were beautiful, timeless accessories."
And with the current trend for head decoration showing no sign of waning - orange and lilac veils featured in the Luella show in London Fashion Week, and oversized headbands are a favourite accessory for the girls in Gossip Girl - Chan's feminine pieces are set to become even more popular locally. The 25-year-old has also had her work featured in runway shows for Annah Stretton and Deborah Sweeney, the latter including specially-made Natalie Chan ivy and willow headpieces in her show at New Zealand Fashion Week in September. Chan talks to us about her distinctive feminine style and fascination for fascinators.
Who are your favourite designers?
Christian Dior, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta... oh, there are too many to list!
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
I design and make a lot of my clothes, but the last piece I bought was a trenchcoat from Zara in London.
What's your biggest indulgence or guilty pleasure?
Travelling.
Who or what inspires you?
My inspirations come from a lot of things, from travelling, life and the people I am surrounded by. I do have a lot to thank my beautiful mum for in terms of where I am at - without her endless support for everything I have done, I wouldn't be where I am now.
Your favourite accessory?
My smile, with a cute hair fascinator to go with it!
Who does the best shoes?
My favourite shoe designer, Rene Caovilla. Wearing these shoes is like wearing chandeliers on your feet. When I can't get my fix of that, which is very often, I love Mi Piaci. They have a great range of shoes to die for.
Your favourite shop?
I don't have a single favourite store but I do love markets. Anything from food to antiques. But if I did have to choose, it has to be my mum's store, Cartier For Flowers in Newmarket. I love the beautiful chandelier and beautiful antique pieces she has there.
What is your fashion obsession?
I'm drawn to things that are divinely beautiful and sparkly. Classy and stylish of course.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
I would love to go through Sarah Jessica Parker's wardrobe; I think she has amazing taste and an eye for style.
What do you wear to work?
I dress in a mix of cute, colourful dresses or tops and skirts that I design, and I always wear some sort of headwear to match.
What is your most cherished item?
My new engagement ring!
Dress to impress whom?
I dress to only impress myself and nobody else, well, unless I am going somewhere very special with my fiance.
Most stylish city?
Paris has stolen my heart; Napoleon did great things to make Paris so beautiful and the whole city is an endless style parade.
Best trend of the season?
Headgear galore! I love it - not just for the races and cocktail parties, but every day.
