According to Business of Fashion, Net-a-Porter founder Natalie Massenet has resigned. Massenet, who launched the multi-million dollar company from her London flat, grew the site into the leading fashion e-commerce destination over the past 15 years—and also found time to create a male version (Mr. Porter), a beautiful print publication (Porter Magazine) and beloved discount site (The Outnet) along the way. Did we mention she is also a mother of two and chairman of the British Fashion Council? While we don’t expect her to slow down anytime soon, she has certainly earned a break. Here, some of our favorite facts about the site that changed the game forever, and the visionary woman behind it all.
Photo: Getty Images
The Quirky Name
According to Vogue UK, Natalie initially wanted to call the site "What's New Pussycat?". Her lawyer steered her away from the name and she landed on Net-A-Porter instead. Photo: @nataporter
The Unconventional Choices
After giving brick-and-mortar department stores a run for their money with her highly curated selection of the best ready to wear on the market, Natalie opted to launch a print magazine. In a climate of print magazines scrambling to make the shift to digital, the choice was unconventional to say the least. Photo: @nataporter
The Logistical Genius
Net-a-Porter pioneered same-day delivery to locations like the Hamptons during summer and fashion capitals during fashion month, effectively eliminating the only downside of online shopping: waiting.
Photo: @netaporter
The Well-Deserved Accolades
Thanks to her long list of achievements, Massenet was included on Time Magazine's list of the world's 100 Most Influential People in 2014. Jenna Lyons, J. Crew's Creative Director, said it best: "The word visionary is lofty, overused. Somewhat abused. There are few people who can really see something that doesn’t exist. Create it. Explain it. And get others to follow. Natalie Massenet is, in fact, that visionary."
Photo: @nataporter
