We recently connected with Nataly Aponte and have shared our conversation below.
Nataly, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
The legacy I aim to build is one defined by high style, taste, and vision. I strive to leave behind a mark that reflects my keen eye for aesthetics, discerning taste, and ability to envision and create. I think people will remember me for these things but mostly my vibrant energy and witty personality. I guess it depends who you ask.
Nataly, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Thanks to my mom’s influence, I grew up surrounded by the eclectic energy of department stores and the hidden treasures of thrift shops long before they became trendy. These experiences instilled in me a deep-seated passion for fashion, art, and vintage aesthetics from an early age.
After graduating art school, I started a seasonal job at Bloomingdale’s, unaware that this would mark the beginning of a lifelong career in visual merchandising. Immersed in this captivating world, I found myself honing my skills in design, fashion, and interior aesthetics. Visual merchandising, to me, wasn’t just a job—it was a playground for creativity. From fashion displays to jewelry showcases, from crafting window props to curating entire interior environments, every day felt like stepping into an art studio.
As my career progressed, I found myself working with luxury brands, crafting captivating visual experiences in New York City. Yet, amidst these professional endeavors, I never let go of my diverse array of passions. Alongside my main gigs, I dabbled in various side hustles—designing my own jewelry line, crafting interiors, and curating vintage finds, aka “Couture Stoop Sales” in Brooklyn according to my neighbors. Each venture added another layer to my skill set and passion.
It was the culmination of these experiences that inspired me to forge my own path. I created my brand—a unique blend of all my passions under one roof. It’s not just my jewelry designs; I offer a curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and decor. What sets my brand apart is the ability to provide a complete experience—I can style your outfit, accessorize it with vintage finds, and even curate an interior adaptation in your home or for an offsite event.
In essence, my business is a manifestation of my lifelong love affair with creativity, fashion, and the timeless allure of vintage. My mom calls it-a little department store. I don’t have a brick and mortar, everything is staged in my apartment and the set changes frequently according to seasons just like windows on 5th ave.
I consider myself fortunate to have transformed my passion into a fulfilling career. This journey has been a dynamic one, constantly evolving as I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse array people and travel to inspiring places, each leaving their mark and influencing my path along the way.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Waking up to enthusiastic messages from clients about their recent purchases fills me up. Their styled photos not only reveal their unique personalities but also makes me feel connected and part of their story. Being recognized for my eye and curation. Its an art form.
A recent standout moment was when a client reached out to express appreciation for the meticulous packaging of their order. I invest considerable thought and care ensuring that every piece is looked over and impeccably packaged. I want a feeling and a vibe to come through when they open the box so receiving such recognition was incredibly rewarding. Despite packaging being such a short lived, its capacity to create a lasting impact is undeniable. You know when you open something and instantly slow down to appreciate and pay attention to that moment?
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Instagram has evolved beyond just a source of creative inspiration for me. It’s become a valuable tool for connecting with the fashion and vintage community authentically. Engaging with other businesses and clients has led to genuine relationships that enrich my journey. Hosting live shows has not only grown my audience but also created opportunities for broader connections, amplifying the impact of my work and fostering a sense of community. This keeps me motivated and passionate about what I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: natalyaponte.com
- Instagram: designedbynatalyaponte
Image Credits
Photography: F/8 Studios