Nadia Minkoff
Design Director
Sawako Muraoka
Merchandiser
Karla Huang
Jewellery Designer
Andrea Challis
Bookkeeper
Adam Mountstephens
Web Admin
Get to know our team
Nadia Minkoff
Design Director
How did you start your career?
When I was 18 I took a gap year in Italy, the rest as they say is history, I knew there and then that I had to study fashion. I did my fashion BA in London and was already working and designing before my graduation. I had a lucky break designing for Browns Own Label ( South Molton St) and it was there I discovered just how much I loved designing accessories.
Average work day?
LONG! Apart from emails, meetings, design briefs, troubleshooting and keeping a close eye on our Social Networking I’m forever looking to see how we evolve next: new product lines, new territories, new markets, new technology. I’m also the chief coffee maker.
What inspires you?
London inspires me, it’s so cosmopolitan. Not a day goes by that I don’t notice something inspiring. I also love traveling, art, cooking, gardening, reading, exercising, so in fact I’ve always got too many ideas going at the same time, I just wish I had more hours in the day.
Any personal style tips?
There are no rules in fashion, we’re all individual, that’s what makes fashion so special. Some of us work out our own style and go with it, others find it a little more challenging but whatever the case maybe one should never be afraid to make mistakes. If you enjoy it, it will always look right.
This season’s top 3 from the current Nadia Minkoff collection?
I love how big yet stylish this bag is, I know I can turn up at a meeting with a heavy bag on my shoulder and still look relaxed and together.
I love how edgy this charm necklace looks and have always loved Blue Lapis so it’s the perfect combination for me.
This ring is so comfortable but makes such a statement, I know it draws attention even as a standalone piece of jewellery
Sawako Muraoka
Production Manager
How did you start your career?
I always wanted to be in fashion and to get my foot in the door I got a job as a PA in fashion company. The main part of my job was order processing and by the time I had moved on to my next job I was taken on as a Merchandiser
Average work day?
First thing I do in the morning is open my order schedule, there are a lot of spreadsheets to keep under control when you are a merchandiser. I look forward to the courier arriving with new development samples. I like being the first to see how an idea has evolved into a product.
What inspires you?
I like living in London which gives me access to art, design, music and fashion. I’m most definitely inspired by food! I find yoga inspirational because it balances me out, I’ve done it for years and after Yoga I am a lot more focused.
Any personal style tips?
I have to be comfortable- I’m not a fan of high heels, I’m not happy if my feet hurt. I always wear colour and I like print, I rarely wear black. I most definitely have my own style but I do mix it with High St trends
This season’s top 3 from the current Nadia Minkoff collection?
I love the texture of this new leather and how it ages with use. It’s the perfect size for everyday use.
I have been waiting for another red bag, what a lovely colour! This small tote means you won’t overload it with too much unnecessary stuff we all have in our handbags.
I don’t like heavy earrings and these are so light and comfortable to wear. They are perfect for a bit of subtle sparkle
Karla Huang
Jewellery Designer
How did you start your career?
I always knew I was going to be a jewellery designer. I came to the UK from Taiwan to study and did my BA at Middlesex University and my MA at the Royal College of Art. As soon as I graduated I started working as a designer.
Average work day?
My days are varied but in general the first thing I need to do is tidy up my desk before I can start! I have a habit of collecting every chain, bead and finding we have on my desk. I don’t do a lot of CAD’s I prefer to make the first samples. I look after the ordering of the raw materials for both production and new season sampling
What inspires you?
I love Instagram, I follow many people in different areas, mostly travel , DIY and some fashion. Anything that has nice imagery inspires me.
Any personal style tips?
I like some of the new upcoming British Brands, I like comfortable clothing and a lot of print. I buy mainly High Street brands but in general I prefer a better-quality item that is a little more classic and will last for more than one season
This season’s top 3 from the current Nadia Minkoff collection?
It’s roomy enough to put in some snacks, drinks and spare clothes when going out with my toddler. Looking stylish, not mumsy is a big plus.
Easy to wear and versatile for different occasions. Could be worn for workwear or weekend casual outfit. They look even better when wearing multiple.
Swan charm is my favourite item as it is very quirky and fun to wear.
Andrea Challis
Bookkeeper
How did you start your career?
Some 12 years ago circumstances dictated that I needed to choose a path to secure my future. Having completing a few short courses, I quickly discovered that bookkeeping was what I wanted to do. I studied AAT and meanwhile started to work as a self-employed bookkeeper. I met Nadia through a friend 8 years ago and since then I have adored her designs and ideas and the team of girls is strong- we have all bonded and work as one.
Average work day?
Every day of the week is different- challenging, interesting, rewarding. My mind is constantly switching on and off, but I love it. When I’m in the office with Nadia, I’m in a little wonderland. Lots off shiny crystals, long chains, short chains, pearls, rings, earrings, bracelets and handbags, this is A LADY’S HEAVEN!
What inspires you?
Working in the fashion industry for sure! It makes me wonder what will be in fashion next season and straight away I’m making plans for my new wardrobe. Coming to the office, even though it is work, is my secret pleasure. Relaxing is important and whilst my mind needs a break I still need a challenge and for that reason I play tennis and racquetball. Real downtime is long walks with dog.
Any personal style tips?
No rules for me, I wear what I think suits me and what I feel comfortable in. In London you have many different styles and you can never go wrong with your own individual look.
This season’s top 3 from the current Nadia Minkoff collection?
The Kate Cocktail Ring in Gunmetal
I love crystals, with this ring you don’t need to wear any other accessories, it makes a strong statement by itself.
The Richmond Midi in Grey
This bag is very versatile and compliments many different outfits and styles.
Patina Cushion Stone Bracelet in Silver
Crystals are my favourite. The bracelet is simple enough for day time wear but still elegant enough to wear out at night.
Adam Mountstephens
Web admin
How did you start your career?
Having always had a creative mind and a passion for design it was only a matter of time before I ventured into the world of graphic design. Circumstances in my life ended up changing and I decided to use that as an opportunity to further my creative skills and it was at this point that I became a so-called ‘freelance’ Graphic Designer.
Average work day?
An average work day for me never seems to end, usually involves multiple projects for various people and frequently ends up in me burning some midnight oil to ensure everything is finished at the appropriate time.
What inspires you?
Seeing my work used and appreciate in public is hugely rewarding to me and I get great satisfaction from making others happy, whether it be through work or as a friend.
Any personal style tips?
Find your own style, whether that means taking inspiration from others or starting with outright copying and putting your own spin on things. Intelligent colour coordination can turn even the most mundane looking items into a genuinely appealing overall look.
This season’s top 3 from the current Nadia Minkoff collection?
I don’t often like Jewellery in Gold but I think this Acorn Charm Necklace works brilliantly and reminds me of Autumn in a pleasing way. The entire Forest Charm collection is really cool, but this is certainly my favourite.
I love the Richmond bags and this version in Black Leather and Tan is a great look. I’m fond of the contrast that the Tan provides and think this bag looks really cool.
These earrings are really enjoyable to look at, there’s a lot going on and the colours are wonderful.
