Q&A: 5 minutes with Natasha Thomas
Designer Natasha Thomas launched her label, By Thomas (bythomas.ws), in 2011, shortly after being crowned winner of Fashion Pop, a juried show that takes place during Montreal’s Festival Mode & Design. Known for streamlined silhouettes and muted palettes, the 29-year-old Val-d’Or native has moved into colour and cool prints for spring. Here, she talks accessories and artistic inspiration.
What are the first things you do when you start a new collection? “I usually look at different images and then go vintage shopping. I like to take pieces apart and make them look modern. The sleeves in the ’80s were huge, with shoulder pads, so I might shorten them and soften the silhouette.”
Your Jackson Pollock–esque print is really beautiful. “It was developed from a painting by a friend. When I saw it, I just wanted to wear it. He let me have it scanned, and then I had it laser-printed on organic cotton.”
Did interning at an accessories brand change the way you approach designing clothes? “I don’t think so, but I did include laser-cut leather bags in my collection. I originally wanted to be a handbag designer.”
Tell me about your trench coats. “The fabric reminds me of a paper bag. It’s linen-viscose, coated with polyurethane so that it’s a bit waxy, like a raincoat.”
Are you trying to make a statement with your clothes? “Eventually, I’d like to include fair trade. There’s a way that fashion can be good for communities. I wish I could make this statement now, but I’m not there yet.”