Natalie Kingham, buying director, matchesfashion.com

Founded by Tom and Ruth Chapman, the first branch of Matches opened in Wimbledon during the early 90s. From the start the store was an emporium of luxury designers; the place where those in the know went for the most comprehensive edit of the latest trends.
Over the last twenty years the brand has gone from strength to strength, opening new stores across London.

In 2006 Matches launched their online store which now receives over 7 million visitors a year, sending out on average over 1,000 orders per week. It's a success story which shows no signs of stopping, and this is largely due to the keen eye of buying director Natalie Kingham who ensures that Matches stock an eclectic mix of the slickest and most glamorous array of contemporary fashion. 

Verity Owen caught up with Natalie Kingham, the buying director of matchesfashion.com, to discuss her top cultural tips.
 

Whose collections stand out for you this season?

Haider Ackerman – his collection was very effortless but very desirable. Marc by Marc Jacobs – I am a real champion of Brit girls Katie Hillier and Luella Bartley and I am really excited about what they are bringing to the collections. It’s making MBMJ cool again with a bit of a cult following. Mary Katrantzou is always a favourite, her experimentation with print and embellishment is very innovative and makes a statement.

What three pieces are on your Autumn Winter wishlist?

A Haider Ackerman long grey coat, an Aries jumpsuit and a Valentino dress.

Which cultural events have you booked over the next few months?

I plan to visit lots of art exhibitions, ALO at Saatchi , Rude Boy at Somerset House and Horst at the V&A.

Which gallery or museum do you find yourself drawn to time and again?

The Barbican, as they tend to curate very engaging exhibitions and topics which appeal to me. They drill down a bit more involving magazines and original collaborators to give a different point of view.

What is your signature style?

I like to be relaxed but pulled together. I have plenty of white and blue shirts, I love clumpy shoes to add height and I can’t live without an army jacket - so pretty eclectic.

Top fashion do’s and don’ts?

Don’t be uncomfortable – be effortless and that will allow your true style to show.
Don’t buy anything too small, always opt for the bigger size.
Always buy the best you can afford, one expensive item you’ll never regret.
Always trust your instinct, you know your own style.

Do you consider fashion an art form?

Yes. Designers are very creative people with their own unique view point. They have to be very aware of all elements of their business but their creative process is still a pure art form.

What was the last book you read?

A biography of Frida Kahlo

What’s your favourite street in London and why?

Chatsworth road in Hackney. At the weekend there is a bustling organic market and it’s great for independent shops.

Best weekend brunch in London?

Hoi polloi at the Ace hotel in Shoreditch has a string quartet playing pop songs. I love it!

Favourite websites or apps?

Matchesfashion.com of course! I also look at a lot of inspiring blogs like Man Repeller and Caroline De Maigret’s Tumblr. My other favourite website is a street art site http://www.picturesonwalls.com/

How do you relax?

I love sitting in the garden with friends.