Natacha Marro

Natacha Marro grew up in Nice before moving to London to study at the world renowned Cordwainers College. After serving a traditional apprenticeship, she opened her first shop in South London in 2000 before entering into a successful partnership with House of Harlot where she found a kindred spirit in designer - Robin Archer.

Natacha has been making shoes for twelve years and during that time she has built up an eminent client list that includes: David Bowie, Star Wars, Luella, Gwen Stefani, Olivia Newton John, Goldfrapp and Grayson Perry. Her motto is "anything is possible" and she prides herself on making dreams come true.

MODW: "When did you discover your passion for shoe design? Was there one anecdote that brought your shoe-making passion to a head?"

Natacha: "My passion for shoes probably come originally from my parents. I like to think they had a sense of style which they passed on! When I was about 20 I became frustrated that I couldn't find the shoes in the shops that I wanted to wear which led me to the thought of designing my own."

MODW: "What do you think have been the greatest influences upon you and your designs?"

Natacha: "I get my influences from everywhere and anywhere - stage, screen, creative individuals, fairytales, decades, textures, colours and of course my own inner child!"

MODW: "Shoe design is such a male dominated field. What do you think a female artist like you bring to industry that hasn't been seen before?"

Natacha: "Sexiness!"

MODW: "Can you tell us a bit about the collaboration that goes in to making shoes for someone like a David Bowie or Gwen Stefani? Or do they leave the artistry completely up to you?"

Natacha: "Usually they come to me because they know I can do almost anything they might want (as everything is fully hand made). Sometimes they might come with a very specific idea and it is a matter of working out how to make something that maybe hasn't been done before, at other times they come to me and we will sit down and discuss ideas together and I will come up with various options for them."

MODW: As a businesswoman, what do you think has been your biggest triumph to date?"

Natacha: "Still here after 14 years of shoe-making!"

MODW: "Do you think it's possible for women to have it all in today's world - career, family, kids, romance."

Natacha: I hope so! I'm working on it!"

MODW: "If you could give women out there one secret that you've learned along the way to fulfill your dreams what would that be?"

Natacha: "It's not original advice but I truly believe you have to find something you love to do. Don't be driven by money, never take yourself too seriously and remember it's supposed to be fun! Just enjoy it."

Picture in Selfridges window, London, boots made for the Kinky Boots film/celebrity auction.

Interview by Constance  
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www.natachamarro.com