Natalie Massenet with her Damehood brooch
Since Net-a-Porter launched more than a decade ago, it’s changed the lives of shoppers around the world. Thanks to the e-commerce giant, high-end fashion has never been more accessible. Not only has the service helped to unite Gucci lovers living far away from a supplier with fur-lined loafers, the United Kingdom-based company has also contributed to the British Empire’s economy. To thank Natalie Massenet for her service, the founder and former CEO was bestowed with a new title by the Royal Family.
“I am thrilled and completely overwhelmed to be awarded this honor,” Massenet, who resigned from her post following a merger with Yoox Group last year, said. “I also feel humbled by it, because during my career I have been privileged to have worked with so many brilliant and inspiring people, all of whom have contributed to the success of our fashion industry.”
Congratulations Dame Natalie Massenet, founder @NETAPORTER, today honoured for her work in fashion and retail pic.twitter.com/PxneWF7P12
— BritishMonarchy (@BritishMonarchy) February 19, 2016
Massenet, who is currently the chairman of the British Fashion Council, wore a custom red suit from Ralph & Russo made of wool crêpe. The pencil skirt’s hemline hit mid-calf and the blazer was belted above a peplum and embellished with lots of little buttons. She accessorized with a string of pears and a matching headband and finished the look off with a pair of black Manolo Blahnik heels. During the ceremony she received a pin from the Prince of Wales.
The insignia on the ribbon brooch symbolizes the honor of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. The honor also means that she can use the title Dame, joining Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Collins, Julie Andrews, Helen Mirren, and more prestigious women. In addition to her Damehood, Massenet was also appointed to be a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her contributions to the fashion industry in 2009.
(Photo:@ralphandrusso/Instagram)