admin Natasha Poly, born Natalia Sergeevna Polevshchikova on July 12, 1985, in Perm, Russia, has become one of the most iconic figures in the fashion industry. Known for her distinctive features—high cheekbones, sharp gaze, and commanding runway presence—Natasha’s journey from a small-town girl to a global supermodel is nothing short of inspiring. Her career has spanned over two decades, during which she has redefined what it means to be a successful model, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion world.
From Humble Beginnings to the World Stage
Born in Perm, a city in the Russian Federation, Natasha’s path to becoming a fashion icon was anything but easy. At the age of 15, she was discovered by Mauro Palmentieri, who invited her to Moscow for a modeling competition. There, she finished second in the prestigious „New Model Today“ competition, a pivotal moment that set her on the path to fame.
Her breakthrough came in 2004 when she made her runway debut walking for Emanuel Ungaro. That same year, she also appeared in major campaigns for iconic brands like Alberta Ferretti and Louis Vuitton, marking the beginning of her meteoric rise in the fashion world. Within her first year, Natasha walked 54 shows across fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, and New York, establishing herself as one of the most sought-after models of her generation.
The Rise of a Fashion Powerhouse
By 2005, Natasha Poly had already secured a place as a top model. That year, she graced the cover of Vogue Paris alongside other rising stars like Mariacarla Boscono and Vlada Roslyakova. Her editorial presence was further solidified with covers of Vogue Russia and Vogue Australia. She became a regular on the most prestigious runways, walking for high-profile designers such as Gucci, Fendi, and Versace, among others.
In addition to her runway dominance, Natasha also became the face of several luxury campaigns, working with brands like Roberto Cavalli, Louis Vuitton, and others. Her unique beauty and undeniable presence made her a favorite of the fashion industry’s top photographers and designers, and she quickly became an in-demand figure in both runway shows and advertising campaigns.
Defining an Era (2007–2010)
The late 2000s were pivotal for Natasha Poly. By 2007, she had walked more than 250 shows in a single year. She appeared in collections for top designers such as Alexander McQueen, Calvin Klein, and Donna Karan. Her ability to open and close major shows earned her a spot in the coveted First Face Countdown on Fashion Television, where she ranked at the top for multiple seasons.
In 2008, Natasha appeared on one of 14 covers of V Magazine, a major milestone in her career. Her success during this period solidified her as one of the key faces of the 2000s and a model who could successfully bridge the worlds of high fashion and mainstream popularity. Natasha’s presence on the runway during this period became synonymous with high fashion and cutting-edge style.
Expanding Horizons (2010–Present)
As Natasha Poly entered the 2010s, her career continued to flourish. In 2010 alone, she appeared on 10 different Vogue covers, including Vogue Paris and Vogue Russia. Her continued success on the runway led her to appear in numerous ad campaigns for major brands like H&M, Balmain, and Versace. Natasha’s ability to adapt to new trends and showcase her versatility made her an enduring presence in the fashion industry.
In 2012, Natasha solidified her status as a global brand ambassador by partnering with L’Oréal, expanding her reach beyond the fashion runway. Throughout the decade, she appeared in major campaigns, including those for Mercedes-Benz, Kurt Geiger, and Dsquared². Even by 2023 and 2024, she was walking for iconic brands like Blumarine, Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, and Fendi Haute Couture. Natasha’s ability to evolve and stay relevant in a fast-changing industry is a testament to her skill and work ethic.
The Art of the Runway
What sets Natasha Poly apart from many other models is her unmatched runway presence. With an elegant, confident walk and sharp poses, she has mastered the art of making every show a performance. Her presence on the runway is magnetic, as she commands attention from both the audience and the photographers. Known for opening and closing shows with undeniable flair, Natasha leaves a lasting impression every time she walks the runway.
Her ability to combine modern sophistication with timeless elegance makes her a standout in the fashion world. Designers and fashion critics alike continue to praise her ability to elevate the collections she walks for, bringing a sense of power and grace that has become synonymous with her name.
Balancing Career and Family
Despite the demanding nature of her career, Natasha has successfully managed to balance her work with family life. In 2011, she married Peter Bakker, a Dutch businessman, in a lavish ceremony in Saint-Tropez. The couple later welcomed two children: Aleksandra Christina in 2013 and Adrian Grey in 2019.
Natasha’s ability to juggle the responsibilities of being a wife and mother while maintaining a high-powered career is a testament to her resilience and dedication. She currently resides in Amsterdam with her family, maintaining a grounded perspective on life despite her international fame.
Legacy and Influence
Natasha Poly’s influence on the fashion industry extends far beyond her striking looks and successful campaigns. As one of the top Russian models, she has inspired many young girls to pursue their dreams of becoming models. Her work ethic and commitment to her craft have set a high standard for aspiring professionals in the industry.
Having graced 61 Vogue covers and earned countless accolades, Natasha Poly has established herself as a true legend of fashion. Her longevity in an industry that often sees models come and go quickly is a testament to her professionalism, adaptability, and passion for the craft.
What’s Next for Natasha Poly?
The future for Natasha Poly is full of possibilities. As she continues to dominate the runway, there are also rumors that she may expand her presence into new ventures such as philanthropy or mentoring the next generation of models. Given her established legacy and influence, it is clear that Natasha’s contributions to the fashion world will continue to resonate for years to come.
Whether continuing her reign on the runway or venturing into new roles, Natasha’s impact on fashion and popular culture will only continue to grow.
Conclusion
Natasha Poly’s incredible journey from a small town in Russia to the heights of international modeling is a remarkable story of determination, skill, and resilience. Her iconic presence on the runway, her unparalleled work ethic, and her ability to maintain relevance throughout her career have made her a lasting figure in the fashion world. Whether as a supermodel, wife, or mother, Natasha Poly remains an inspiring figure, proving that with passion and perseverance, one can truly achieve greatness.
