A scandalous legal feud is shaking the fashion world as the industry’s most high-profile couple faces off in court. Dame Natalie Massenet, the visionary founder of Net-a-Porter, has filed an explosive lawsuit against her former partner Erik Torstensson, co-founder of premium denim brand Frame, alleging he defrauded her of over $95 million while living a secret double life of drugs, prostitutes, and infidelity.
Net-a-Porter Founder Takes Legal Action
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, marks the dramatic end of what was once considered one of fashion’s most influential power couples. Massenet, and Torstensson, were together for 14 years before their relationship imploded in May 2025, as reported by Air Mail.
According to the lawsuit, Massenet has accused Torstensson of leading a double life and using her resources for personal benefit.
Allegations of Manipulation and Exploitation
According to court documents, Massenet claims Torstensson deliberately targeted her for her wealth and connections when they met in 2009. The lawsuit alleges Torstensson used Massenet’s fashion industry network, including connections with Anna Wintour, Tamara Mellon, and the Beckhams, to support and promote the Frame brand.
Secret Life of Excess and Addiction
The most sensational claims in the lawsuit focus on Torstensson’s alleged double life, funded by Massenet’s wealth. Massenet claims Torstensson spent her money on drugs, prostitutes, and excessive trips to luxury locations like Los Angeles and New York for work. Legal filings reportedly include evidence of heavy drinking, emotional withdrawal, and explicit messages which surfaced in May 2025, revealing multiple affairs and substance use over several years. According to court documents, Massenet ultimately confronted Torstensson and he confessed to being “liar, an alcoholic, a drug addict, a sex addict,” and said the double life had gone on for seven years. These revelations led to the end of their fourteen-year relationship and are part of ongoing litigation that has made headlines across the fashion world.
Financial Devastation and Broken Promises
Central to the lawsuit are claims that Massenet poured millions into their shared lifestyle and Torstensson’s ventures, believing he would eventually reimburse her. Legal filings state Massenet spent more than $95 million during the course of their relationship on “expensive properties, lifestyle expenses, vacations and more based on Torstensson’s promises to repay her in kind.”
The complaint describes how Massenet was left emotionally devastated and cash-strapped, outlining that Torstensson built wealth and status through her capital while she covered the majority of costs.
The Confession and Aftermath
When confronted in May 2025, Torstensson allegedly confessed to being a “liar, drug addict, alcoholic and sex addict,” according to Massenet’s legal team. Legal filings claim, “as soon as he had finished spending Massenet’s money, he left,” leaving Massenet “cash-strapped with his child.” Massenet’s attorneys argue these revelations came after years of manipulation, extravagant spending, and ongoing betrayal, resulting in severe emotional distress and intensive therapy for Massenet. The couple shares a son born via surrogate in 2017, adding further complexity to this bitter legal battle.
Seeking Justice and Financial Recovery
Massenet is seeking damages for breach of contract, fraud, and infliction of emotional distress. “Massenet is demanding what any investor would—a fair, equitable return on the investments she made, value she created, and costs she carried,” said her legal team.
Frame and Erik Torstensson have reportedly agreed to part ways, according to news coverage, but the brand has not issued an official public statement concerning the lawsuit. This ongoing saga exemplifies how complex and intertwined personal and professional lives can become in high-stakes industries like luxury fashion, attracting major attention from the wider public.
