In May of 2019, Natalie graduated with a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Fashion Design from Kent State University with a specialization in Fashion Illustration.
During her academic career, Natalie developed strong hand and digital illustration skills. She enhanced her garment construction skills through flat pattern and draping. In the fall of 2017, Natalie traveled to Florence, Italy to learn Italian Garment Construction and Couture techniques. Upon her return, she completed two professional internships in two vastly different realms of the design industry: Bridal Wear & Children’s Wear.
Upon Graduation, Natalie started her career as an Assistant Designer for Obvious Bras for the lingerie company, La Senza. There, she learned the ropes of the industry — learning how to extensively work in PLM systems, create Technical Packages, follow and adhere to corporate calendars, sketch intricate hand and illustrator bra designs, and create and manage linesheets. Her time was cut short due to COVID-19; however, during her time off she remained creative by working as a baker and cake decorator at a grocery store. In September of 2020, Natalie began working as an Assistant Designer for Lingerie (and eventually Swim) at Torrid. There, she was responsible for creating and maintaining: black and white new development linesheets, color linesheets, samples, technical sketches and packages. She, also, designed new product and gave design feedback during fit sessions. She eventually moved on to work for Kim Kardashian led brand, SKIMS. There she finely tuned her eye for color, as the main color conceptual designer for the intimates category. She worked closely with international vendors on lab-dip and raw material approvals. She continued developing her skills in technical sketches and packages, as well as developing new three-dimensional rendering skills. It was at SKIMS she realized she had an additional passion for another niche category of design: denim. Natalie was presented the opportunity to work on her long love of denim and ultimately decided to encroach on said journey. She is currently the Associate Designer of Women’s Denim and Woven Bottoms at Pacific Sunwear.
She hopes you enjoy viewing her portfolio and asks you to please contact her at nnmills517@gmail.com for any inquiries.
Thank you!