Rise & Fall Creative Director Natalie Hasseck On Her 9-To-5

When New Zealand-born, London-based entrepreneurs Jed Coleman and Will Coulton founded Rise & Fall in 2018, their aim was simple: to make ethical luxury fashion and homewares attainable to the masses. By working directly with the same manufacturers supplying high-end designers and cutting out the middlemen, they were able to achieve precisely that—selling timeless pieces crafted from high-quality cashmere, silk, wool and linen directly to consumers, but at significantly lower prices.

Naturally, the concept was an instant recipe for success—but the brand has reached even higher heights since the arrival of Natalie Hasseck. Joining Rise & Fall as creative director of brand and product in 2022, the former art director has helped elevate its offering, expand its collections, and launch cult items and viral hits aplenty. The current triangle scarf obsession? It started here first. Meanwhile, Rise & Fall’s cashmere jumpers have become a wardrobe staple for stylish women everywhere, and the recently launched suede trench coat is the new must-have for tastemakers and celebrities alike.

Here, Natalie Hasseck lifts the lid on her immensely chic world, and shares what goes on in her nine-to-five—from morning rituals to her creative process…

I can’t start my morning without… Cuddles with my cat and kids in bed for at least 15 minutes before we all get up and get on with it. Once they’re sorted, I need to shift from mum to work mode. I’ve actually grown to love my commute for that. A playlist that matches my mood, the right fragrance to meet me where I’m at, and an hour of quiet headspace before I hit the office.

Getting dressed in the morning always starts with… A silhouette. Do I want slouchy, or a bit more done and polished? My moods at the moment: super slouchy vintage cargos that make me feel very London; a razor-cut tailored trouser with a strong boot when I want more intention, or a straight boyish jean for something honest and easy. And then everything this time of year with knits of all varieties. I’m very lucky to have such a good choice in knits of all shapes and proportions.

My in-office essentials are… Room spritzes, and Cadbury’s chocolate buttons on shoot days. I keep different room spritzes on my desk, because scent shifts the energy instantly. In start-ups you can really feel the heat of the room with everyone working so hard, and a quick spritz of something grounding brings everyone back down.