The glitzy world of luxury fashion is witnessing an unexpected courtroom drama as Dame Natalie Massenet, founder of Net-a-Porter, and her ex-boyfriend Erik Torstensson clash in a highly publicized legal dispute.
Once a high-profile couple enjoying a lavish lifestyle, the pair are now embroiled in accusations of deception, substance abuse, and financial misconduct that have stunned the industry.
Allegations Fly from Both Sides
Last month, Massenet sued Torstensson, accusing him of living a double life filled with rampant drug use, multiple affairs, and the company of prostitutes.
She claimed she had invested more than $95 million into their shared lifestyle, including properties, vacations, and luxury expenses, based on his promises to repay her in kind.
Now, Torstensson has struck back by filing a child custody action in the New York Supreme Court, alleging that Massenet is an unfit mother for their seven-year-old son.
Court documents, reported by The New York Times, claim that Massenet regularly used drugs, drank heavily, and would lash out physically, including a reported MDMA overdose at Glastonbury festival.
Torstensson Paints Himself as Primary Caregiver
Torstensson’s legal team insists he was the main caregiver for their child and questions Massenet’s ability to provide responsible care.
His lawyer, Bonnie Eskenazi, described Massenet’s lawsuit as “vengeful and obviously meritless,” suggesting it disregards the potential harm to their family.
Meanwhile, Massenet’s spokesperson called Torstensson’s filing “a vindictive smear campaign in response to Natalie’s claim against him.”
A Relationship Full of Secrets
According to Torstensson, the relationship began dramatically on a flight to Milan when Massenet, then still married, reportedly leaned over and said, “kiss me.”
The romance continued in high-profile fashion, with the couple living a lifestyle Torstensson claims he funded with more than $20 million.
He says the public attention became a distraction from his work and ambitions.
Massenet’s filings allege that Torstensson’s behavior worsened over time, including secretive nights out and a hidden prescription for Valacyclovir he claimed was for hives.
By May 2024, she discovered explicit messages and photographs revealing his multiple affairs with younger women, including someone within her social circle.
When confronted, he allegedly admitted to being a liar, alcoholic, drug addict, and sex addict for years.
Claims of Exploitation and Financial Manipulation
Massenet’s legal team argues that Torstensson intentionally targeted her to gain access to wealth, power, and social connections.
Documents claim he leveraged her influence to secure endorsements and investments, including convincing celebrities like David and Victoria Beckham to promote his fashion brand, Frame.
The court papers allege that despite Massenet covering costs for properties, private jets, and other lavish expenses, Torstensson diverted incoming funds to impress peers instead of honoring promises to share profits.
Her lawyers state this caused her severe emotional distress, forcing therapy and time off work, while Torstensson allegedly refuses to acknowledge any financial obligations despite evidence to the contrary.
A Bitter Legal Battle Ahead
The case highlights a bitter intersection of love, power, and money at the highest levels of fashion and business.
With both sides leveling serious accusations, the dispute promises to remain in the public eye as courts in Manhattan weigh claims of financial exploitation, emotional harm, and child custody.
For Massenet, Torstensson, and their young son, the stakes are both deeply personal and profoundly public.