Note from Kelly: Hi everyone! Before we dive into this month’s feature, I wanted to clarify the goals of this interview series. We speak with female entrepreneurs to learn about their journeys. The items in their clutch are a starting point to explore their style, careers, and the advice they have to share. The photos are meant to highlight their talents and how the clutch inspired them, not only to document what’s inside. Enjoy getting to know these amazing women!
I’m so excited to share this month’s interview with Natasha of Violet Tinder Studios. You might remember her from our rock candy project together.
Natasha is a stylist, photographer, art director, and content creator with a brilliant eye for color and a wildly creative approach. If you don’t already follow her, her Instagram is packed with striking color palettes and a cohesive aesthetic worth seeing. Her playful touches—sometimes even a Barbie shoe—make her work unforgettable. The pink credit card clutch felt like it was made for her.
We sat down with Natasha to talk about how her personal style has evolved, the lip colors that really last, and a few practical tips for anyone starting a creative career. Here’s what she shared.
What must-have items do you always keep in your purse? Anything you absolutely can’t live without?
I always carry gum, a couple pairs of statement earrings for quick outfit upgrades, and at least three lip products—lipsticks, glosses, or chapsticks. I’m obsessed with lip products and reapply constantly. Lately I love Beauty Bakerie’s Lip Whips because they’re easy to apply and the color really doesn’t budge.
Ever found anything surprising in your purse?
When I clean my bag out I’m always surprised. I save astrology readings, magazine clippings, and fortune cookie fortunes to use in collages, but instead they usually pile up. A few months later I pull out what feels like a library of paper. It’s always fun to sort through the collection, though.
What was your very first purse?
I think I was born loving purses. My earliest memorable one was a paisley-print granny purse I found at a thrift store when I was six or seven. I filled it with clipped coupons, rubber bands, Lip Smackers, and my mom’s old checkbooks—I thought that’s what grown-ups carried. Honestly, my current bag contents aren’t that different.
How has your style changed over the years?
My style has gone through phases—grunge, 40s retro, bohemian—but color and bold accessories are constants. I spent years working in retail, especially accessories, so I love layering bracelets, necklaces, rings, and even hats. Lately I’m into graphic prints and chunky heels paired with playful jewelry. Granny-chic counts, right?
Do you use the same purse every day or match bags to outfits?
I like to switch my bag throughout the week and coordinate colors with my outfit. I don’t aim for everything to be matchy-matchy, but I do like the overall look to flow.
Tell us about your work.
I run Violet Tinder Studios, where we create custom-styled images and content for brands that want eye-catching visuals. It’s been a gradual evolution and I love what I do. I work with a small team now and hope to grow a larger creative group to expand our offerings.
How did you get started with styling and photography? Did you study it formally?
Mostly it’s been trial and error. I used to spend hours arranging objects and photographing them, purely for fun. I didn’t realize it could be a career until Instagram gave me an audience. Once I committed, I immersed myself in learning about photography, lighting, and styling techniques. I’m still learning—looking back at recent work, I often see ways I’d improve—but that drive keeps me improving.
Are you as bold with your wardrobe as you are with your photography?
Generally, yes. I don’t live exclusively in neon or pastels, but I avoid all-black and all-neutral outfits. I need color—it reflects my mood and outlook and helps me feel more like myself on days when I’m not at my best. My work reflects who I am, so it makes sense that my personal style aligns with it.
What’s your top tip for someone starting a creative career?
Practice relentlessly and create work before anyone pays you. Build a strong portfolio that demonstrates what you can do so clients will want your work. Keep going even when progress feels slow—persistence often outlasts raw talent. Don’t quit.
Photos by Violet Tinder Studios
Those horoscopes and magazine clippings shown earlier? Natasha says they really were pulled from her purse that week. As a fellow magazine lover, I think that’s delightful. Huge thanks to Natasha for joining us—her creativity and use of color are a must-see. She’s also hosting a giveaway for the sold-out credit card clutch, so keep an eye on her Instagram if you want a chance to win.
If you want to secure a spot for the next clutch release, join the waitlist for the shop’s upcoming drop.