Ones to watch

January 20, 2009
Hannah Smith

Model: Natasha Poly 

Singled out by Vogue for her “versatility and jaw-dropping beauty”, Natasha Poly is almost alarmingly beautiful. 

The 23 year-old Russian has graced the covers of Vogue (ten times) and Marie Claire, and has shot campaigns for Mara and Rykiel. In 2004 (her debut year on the catwalk), she featured in 54 shows. This January she came second in models.com’s list of the top working models, earning $70,000  a day per advertisement.

Shop: Yumi 

One of the newest retailers on York’s high street, Yumi is an offshoot from older sister Uttam, which has enjoyed a decade of success. The clothes at Yumi are for those unafraid of individualism. An array of kitsch prints give attention to feminine detail. This almost vintage quality is complimented by shapes inspired by simple 60s shift and bubble dresses that have withstood the test of time. Garments are in lightweight wool and cotton, and have a trans-seasonal essence that screams out for layering on those chilly early spring days. Available direct from their Uttam website, from concessions at Ark, Oli.co.uk or ASOS. 

Designer: Ej Hong 

Winner of the prestigous Fashion Fringe competition last September, committee member Donatella Versace recognised a bright new talent in this Central St Martin’s graduate, originally from Korea. Her Go By a Secret Path designs emanate beautiful high-end quality. The collection was purely white, but far from appearing monotonous, this effectively drew one’s gaze to the finer detail of its exquisite craftsmanship, with elegant cuts in delicate lace and silk. Models sashayed down the catwalk in grecian draped dresses with huge bejewelled brooches and ruffled tops with an almost tissue-like quality. Clearly there is the potential for mass commercial success: next season her collection will be sold via Net-a-Porter.