Natasha Poly

IMG Models · Paris

Early Life / Background

Natasha Poly, born Natalia Sergeevna Polevshchikova on July 12, 1985, in Perm, Russia, grew up in a city known for its industrial heritage and as a cultural hub in the Ural Mountains region. Perm, with its rich history tied to the Russian Empire's expansion and its role in the Soviet era as a center for metallurgy and ballet, provided a grounded upbringing far from the glamour of international fashion capitals.

Career Development

Poly's career ignited in 2000 when she signed with a Moscow agency and began training in runway walking and posing. By 2002, at just 17, she relocated to Paris, the undisputed heart of haute couture, to pursue international opportunities.

Notable Work & Campaigns

Poly's portfolio is a who's who of luxury fashion. She debuted for Gucci in 2005, walking their fall/winter show and soon becoming a staple for the Italian house, appearing in campaigns that captured the brand's bold, eclectic aesthetic.

Industry Context

Natasha Poly's trajectory mirrors the seismic shifts in the global fashion industry during her rise. The early 2000s saw a surge in Russian models—think Irina Shayk and Sasha Luss—breaking into Western markets, driven by agencies like IMG scouting talent in post-Soviet regions where economic opportunities were limited.

Current Status & Legacy

As of 2023, Natasha Poly remains active, selectively booking runway appearances and campaigns while prioritizing family life. Based between New York and Europe, she continues with IMG Models, focusing on luxury brands that align with her sophisticated image.