From Physics to Fashion: The Inspiring Journey of Natalia Chikina

In the 1960s, it was fashionable for young women to enroll in the Radio Engineering Institute, and Natalia Chikina graduated with honors in 1972. She was assigned to work at the Academy of Sciences, specifically at the Institute of Solid State Physics. However, during her studies, she accompanied a friend to a model selection event at the House of Models. Both were tall and slender, but only one was expected to be chosen. Natalia waited in the hall, yet she was also asked to “come out and show herself.” Surprisingly, her friend was rejected, and Natalia was invited to work as a model, initially on a part-time basis.

The Allure of Modeling

Earning a salary equivalent to a junior research scientist, the lowest rate, Natalia found herself drawn to the world of fashion. Despite being a shy and insecure girl, she enjoyed the exciting new activity. As a part-time model, she was occasionally invited to shows in the evenings after her classes. In 1970, during her fourth or fifth year of study, an opportunity arose to travel to Yugoslavia for a fashion show. The selection process for international trips was incredibly rigorous, with only five or six models chosen after thorough background checks on their families. Natalia was selected due to her attractive appearance, suitable measurements, and impeccable background.

A Life-Changing Trip

That first trip to Yugoslavia changed Natalia’s perspective on life. After graduating, she found her work at the Institute of Solid State Physics unfulfilling. The glamour, beauty, and applause of the fashion world contrasted sharply with the dull, confined environment of her scientific job. Although both positions offered similar salaries, Natalia craved the excitement and allure of international travel, which was considered a great privilege at the time.

Pursuing a Passion

After seven months at the Institute, the director of the House of Models offered Natalia a full-time position as a leading model with opportunities for international travel. Despite her parents’ disapproval, Natalia decided to follow her passion. Her decision was supported by a close friend, who later became her husband. Natalia’s career in modeling spanned 20 years, during which she traveled to countries like Spain, France, and Canada.

A Dream Deferred

Natalia dreamed of becoming a fashion commentator and art critic as she aged out of modeling. She studied special literature and wrote lectures on fashion trends and presentation techniques. The House of Models had an extensive library with unique books on fashion history and foreign magazines, which were rare and valuable resources at the time. Although her dream of becoming a fashion commentator did not materialize, Natalia transitioned to the Department of Fashion Promotion and Advertising in her last five to six years at the House of Models.

Adapting to Change

In her new role, Natalia was responsible for print publications, advertising campaigns, and promotional films. However, with the restructuring of the Fashion Center during the perestroika era, Natalia’s services were no longer needed. She declined an offer to work in the pattern-making workshop and explored various career paths over the next six years. Natalia attended courses in embroidery, cutting, and sewing, obtaining a diploma in clothing design.

New Ventures

When small sewing productions became fashionable, Natalia joined the enterprise “Belorusochka,” where she designed and decorated women’s nightgowns and blouses with embroidery. She worked as the head of the tailors, overseeing both construction and modeling. Although the enterprise did not last long, Natalia continued her career at the sewing company “Scarlett,” where she served as a model, clothing designer, and more.