Life and Work with Natalie Gohel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Gohel.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up, I always loved getting lost in fashion editorials and runways. It was a fantasy world that was so visually stimulating to me. I knew I had to be part of it but wasn’t sure where I should specialize since there are many career routes one can take. I tried a few different paths, I did makeup for a bit, was a stylist and than merchandiser. Just searching for a door into that dream world. I was studying design while I was working as a merchandiser and ultimately got the opportunity to be a regional merchandiser for a different brand. Yet design kept pulling me back, I felt so unfilled without it. The ability to be so inspired that you want to create a visual narrative with others around you is consuming.

I decided to go back to school and finish my degree in order to be a competitive candidate in the job market. After researching all my options, I decided to figure out a way to make my dreams come true and study in Paris. I applied as a transfer student and was accepted into a design school. While I was completing the visa process, the tragic terrorist attacks happened in Paris on November 13th, 2015.

I have to admit I was terrified, I was searching for apartments in the 10th and at that moment I felt like I could’ve been one of those people sitting outside of the cafes that were targeted. People that knew I was leaving, kept asking if I was still deciding to come. I did have my doubts, my fears, but honestly, I felt that these types of attacks are meant to keep people living in fear. So, I decided to keep going, take my chances, and create my own destiny. I was not fluent at all in the language, I had no place to live up until the night before I left. It has definitely been an adventure, I’ve faced a lot of struggles and made a lot of sacrifices, but I’m so grateful for this experience. I’ve grown so much as a person and artist. It has definitely made me more aware of who I am and where I want to go. Experiences like these also show you who your true friends are, it can be a lonely road, with a lot of fake friends but it is one of the best learning experiences I’ve had.

I am in the early stages of starting my own brand, and I also am working as a consultant to other artists to help them create stronger visual content for their brands. My ultimate goal is to create a global dialog with other artist, communities, and activists. I feel that the new generation of designers and artists have to be conscious in the way we create and respond to right the wrongdoings of the industry. We have to teach our communities to consume wisely.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Fear kept me from immediately entering the fashion industry. The self-doubt on top of choosing to get into a hyper competitive, saturated industry was intimidating. But passion brings you back and passion is what keeps you going and sets you apart. Anything worth having doesn’t come easy but it has to be something you really want and love to keep you going. I also believe things happen when they’re supposed to, as long as you work hard and do your best, your chance will come, just be prepared.

My advice to young women is true to yourself first and foremost. Be proud of your uniqueness. Know what genuinely makes you happy in life and figure out how to make a career out of it. When you’re busy chasing your own happiness, anytime you come across disappointments, your drive will come from somewhere deep inside and you will continue to move forward. So, go for it girl! Your failures don’t define you, a no is never the end, and we each have our own journey, so don’t compare yourself to others! BE YOU!!! Don’t try to fit in or force things, because you won’t be happy at the end and you distance yourself from people who you’d be able to create unique connections with.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Continental Chakras – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My current work has been focused on drapery for womenswear. That’s what brought me to Paris to further study and practice the more classic couture techniques but mixing it with the street style I grew up with. My style is definitely influenced by LA culture overall and California in general. That nostalgia of home definitely is a part of my inspiration and the vibe of my work. LA culture is unique but recognizable. It’s such a visually inspiring vibrant city, where various scenes, cultures, and movements coexist.

Traveling and exposing myself to the energy of different cities is also always very inspirational. I love learning about the history of a place, traditions and how culture influenced its past and present artisans. I let myself be exposed to as much as I can in order to draw inspiration from various places. I am always looking to learn and absorb information.

I’m most proud of the connections I’ve made and how I’ve stayed true to my vision even when others didn’t agree or forced their ideas onto mine.

I feel that my voice as a first generation biracial woman of color sets me apart. The collection of my experiences shape the way I design, the way I speak, the way I view the world. I am half Indian and Guatemalan so I grew up with amazing handmade textiles around me. When I was younger, I use to play with huipil swatches and once I even cut into a sari my grandmother sent my sister, needless to say, that was the only time I tried that move. I was just always naturally attracted to fabrics and their composition, how they feel against the skin and the movement I could create or emphasize when playing with them.

I believe fashion should be much more than just designing apparel, it’s a visual statement and wearable medium. We lost the appreciation for the art in fashion, for the handwork and talent of garment workers throughout the world.

One of my hobbies is making beauty products and creating my own fragrances. My time working in the beauty industry taught me a lot, I love that world, and it definitely is a space I want to further explore and implement into my brand.

Who have you been inspired by?
My mom was my first inspiration of course. She is kind yet strong, creative and optimistic, she makes me believe that everything is possible.

I’ve also always been inspired by different qualities in different women. From family members, friends, artists, activists, historical figures. I am inspired by women who are rule breakers, who fight for a cause, who are themselves and those who help to create positive changes and equality, even when they are met with resistance.
I think these are qualities I have come across in women of various ages and in various places. I have been living in Paris for 2 years now, being away and seeing all that has happened politically and socially in the states has been crazy and surreal. Yet seeing Edna Chaves, Emma Gonzales, Naomi Walder! They are so young but I am already inspired by them. How they took their pain, created a platform to speak up for others and did it with grace, courage, and vigor. I’m so proud of them and back them 100%. With young women like them, we are moving towards a brighter future. I feel women need to speak up and support one another regardless of age or background. We each can play a part in creating a more accepting and loving world, no action is too small.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://continentalchakras.wixsite.com/mysite
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aries_abroad/

Image Credit:
Javeria Jawaid, Muhammad Bilal , Maeva Blum

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.