NM Collective
n·m col·lec·tive
Busayo Olupona
We are excited to introduce Busayo Olupona, a dynamic fashion designer and attorney who has established herself in both arenas. As the founder of BÙSÁYỌ̀, a vibrant fashion brand based in Brooklyn, she celebrates her Nigerian heritage while fostering dialogue across the Black diaspora. With an obsession for colorful prints and a commitment to elevating traditional Nigerian culture, Busayo's designs are a true reflection of her roots.
Like Nat, Busayo collaborates with local artisans to craft her dynamic and joyful textiles, bringing traditional artistry to renowned retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Moda Operandi, and Shopbop. Her creations have graced the wardrobes of some of the most influential women of our time, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Dr. Angela Davis, Lupita Nyong'o, Alfre Woodard, Uzo Aduba, and Wunmi Mosaku. Each design exudes an artful ease that we know you will love!
Claudia Sassi
We’re excited to introduce Claudia, founder of the Italian footwear brand, Toujours. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the rich history of the Italian apparel industry, Claudia developed a passion for fashion from an early age. After studying the art at university, she set out to innovate while honoring the craftsmanship that defines her heritage. Thus, Toujours was born, infusing footwear with a fresh perspective and a touch of unconventional elegance.
A standout feature of Toujours is its playful use of fringe, symbolizing movement and freedom—an idea inspired by Claudia’s admiration for vintage style. With a shared appreciation for retro aesthetics and artisanal craftsmanship, it’s no wonder these two incredible women clicked. Both brands, led by talented women, are steeped in tradition while designed for the modern woman and her vibrant lifestyle - and not to mention the perfect pair-back to each other.
Mariana Velásquez
Introducing our newest NM Collective member and dear friend, Mariana Velásquez. Mariana Velásquez is a renowned food stylist, cookbook author, and tabletop designer celebrated for her distinctive approach to hosting and entertaining. Her expertise has been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, and numerous other prestigious publications throughout her career.
With an eye for detail and a passion for creating memorable gatherings, Mariana curates every element of an event—from the menu and color palette to the overall experience. Mariana transforms any table into an artful celebration, blending culinary creativity with visual storytelling to craft moments that are as beautiful as they are meaningful.
In addition to her work for clients like Bon Appétit, Saveur and Williams-Sonoma, Mariana founded Casa Velásquez. Casa Velásquez introduces an unexplored category to the consumer: hostingware. A twofold concept encompassing textiles and stationery for the table and hosting garments for the host; led by CV’s creation envisioned as the Hermès of aprons. Casa Velásquez is a high quality, comfortable line of pinafores, table linens and stationery when cooking and entertaining at home. All crafted in Colombia to enlarge people’s sense of home and entertaining.
Maria Crimella
It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to our latest NM Collective Member, Maria Crimella. A painter both in practice and in lifestyle; Maria studied Fine Art at the National University of the Arts in Argentina, but it was her participation in post graduation clinics working alongside other artists that has helped to shape her understanding of artistic practice as more than just an activity, but truly a way of life. Maria is the embodiment of this belief; that art should surround us in our daily lives - a standard woven into our being.
Maria’s art, commitment to an artistic lifestyle, and belief in the power that art holds as a societal connector have left us completely enamored.
CRIMELLA was born out of Maria’s admiration of both textiles and nature; their ability to teach us a slower way of life. Each CRIMELLA collection starts with a set of personal questions - ideations to learn from, but rather than looking for answers Maria uses thread, color, wools, and textures that embody the learning - the series the answer.
Brianna Falcone
It is with full hearts that we introduce singer, songwriter, and longtime NM muse Brianna Falcone. Nat met Brianna in early 2014 after casting her for the Natalie Martin spring campaign; an immediate connection was made. Brianna, like her music, is magical; filling spaces with ease and love. A true artist, Brianna’s sound is both playful and prayerful by nature. Organic and etherial to its core. Her storytelling engulfs her listeners; imbued with sweetness and wisdom, her songs serve as a gentle invitation back to oneself and exist as an ode to the ancient female archetype; finding power in softness and strength in vulnerability.
For the past 10 years the connection between both creators has stayed strong; Brianna a muse that often comes top of mind when Nat is designing. Brianna embodies the spirit of the brand - of the NM Woman. Free - full of life - full of love.
“A sense of awe for flowers, the sky, and the sea has been a constant in life. The world in all her wonder is the most dependable creative muse. I have always had a love for nature, exploring the inner world, and anything in the world of art. Music, to me, became a space in which all of these worlds so naturally collided. An avenue for self expression and self discovery alike.”
Valerie Gordon
We are thrilled to welcome celebrated chocolatier, chef, entrepreneur, and (most importantly) friend, Valerie Gordon to NM Collective. Valerie, one of LA's favorite food personalities, is best known for making Valerie Confections into one of the country's most beloved and respected confectionary brands (we drool just thinking about their black sesame caramels); but VC is just a tiny morsel of the delicious world she is building. Countless top-tier media covers, roles as a respected judge on both Food Network and Netflix, a James Beard nominated cookbook, Sweet, and parlaying her passion for the pit into into an MC role at Alisal Ranch’s BBQ Bootcamp - there doesn't seem to be anything Gordon can't cook up.
For Summer 24 Valerie styled herself and her sweet daughter Gee Gee in some of her faves of the season. Click below to check out Valerie's NM edit.
Craving more? We will be selling some select sweets at our Melrose boutique, and for those of you too far away Valerie Confections ships (quickly).
Ashley Turner
We are beyond excited to introduce to you our latest NM Collective member and dear friend, Ashley Turner. Ashley is an LA-based photographer who has focused much of her work toward capturing the emotional connection between artisans and their craft - a true celebration of the maker. Ashley’s photos carry an innate sense of refined nostalgia, freedom of subject, and nature within oneself, transporting the viewer to the scene, bringing the moments captured to life - memories shared.
A limited curation of Ashley’s art prints are available to shop online now, and soon to be showcased at our NM Flagship store. Enjoy getting lost in Ashley’s world and stay tuned for the next shoot where she helps invite you into ours.
Lulu DK
Lulu deKwiatkowski, aka Lulu DK, has an eye for unique beauty. Growing up, Lulu split her time between NYC and the Hamptons, drawing inspiration from both the vibrant city streets and relaxed Hamptons lifestyle.
Lulu passionately describes each of her creations as a page from her journal, capturing not only the visual aesthetics but also the emotions and places that define each day. She takes pride in the transformative power of her art, turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary and vibrant realms that resonate with a unique blend of culture, emotion, and personal experience.
Sean Gin
Sean Gin, a gifted artist hailing from Walnut Creek, CA has left an indelible mark in the realm of ceramics. In 2010, he earned his BA from the University of Berkeley, immersing himself in the world of clay under the guidance of the esteemed ceramicist Richard Shaw. Sean's creative journey is a testament to his dedication to the craft, blending tradition with innovation to create captivating pieces.
Currently residing with his husband, two cats, and two dogs, Sean's home in Los Angeles serves as a haven for his craft. His work not only showcases technical prowess but also exudes the personal warmth and joy that define his unique approach to ceramics.
Sean will be our first featured Artist-In-Residence when our NM flagship store opens in 2024. Until then, shop Sean's mini collection of sculpture pieces - available now on our site.
Lucie Timonier
Lucie Timonier, the Swiss-American artist hailing from Ojai, California, is a true embodiment of cross-cultural creativity and beauty. As an international traveler, Lucie draws inspiration from the diverse cultures and landscapes she has encountered to create her one-of-a-kind tapestries and designs. She is renowned for her innovative work with natural dyes, a practice deeply intertwined with her commitment to environmentally sustainable and non-toxic art.
Lucie's artistic philosophy can be summarized as minimalist and research-driven, where the essence of her work revolves around exploring the subtle interplay of colors and the craft of screen printing. Her creations stand as a testament to the power of art in shaping a more harmonious and sustainable future.
Sarah Hendler
LA-based, by way of New York, Sarah Hendler brings West Coast ease and East Coast edge to all she does. After launching her namesake jewelry collection during Fall/Winter 2016 Paris Fashion Week, Sarah's designs quickly became influential in the fashion space with stars like Drew Barrymore and Kristen Bell driving Hendler to be a must-know name.
7 years and an SH studio later, we are excited to partner to bring Sarah Hendler Estate to you. Her "All Is Not Lost" collection among others will be featured in our soon to open flagship store as well as a small assortment online.
Joanna Williams
We've long admired Joanna and her ever-evolving collection of discoveries and inspirations. Reflecting on her extensive travels, Joanna focuses on one-of-a-kind, globally sourced home goods, jewelry, and art, celebrating the unique history and significance of each piece. Kneeland Co. is a textile archive, a brick and mortar retail store, an online store, and an advisory service for designers. Joanna brings light and color to everything she touches and the world is so much more magical with her in it.
Joanna is our first NM collective partner! Together, we will be creating an immersive experience in our new flagship store opening this winter.