We were lucky to catch up with Natalija Lesjak recently and have shared our conversation below.
Natalija, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Creativity thrives when nurtured, and I keep mine alive by staying open to inspiration, experimenting freely and reflecting mindfully. Nature is a constant muse—its textures, colors, and organic forms often spark new ideas. But inspiration also hides in simple, everyday moments: the way light falls on fabric, an unexpected color combination, or a fleeting conversation.
When I feel creatively blocked, I take a step back—sketching without a goal, exploring different art forms, or just taking a walk. Observing people and their unspoken needs also fuels my creativity, helping me shape ideas that truly resonate. In fashion design, I’ve learned to give ideas space to evolve; the most exciting creations often emerge when you let them grow naturally.
At the same time, staying true to my values is essential. Trends come and go, but authenticity lasts. People seek a connection in design—something personal and meaningful, not just a passing trend. My goal is to create pieces that grow with them, becoming part of their journey.
So, if creativity ever feels distant, pause, observe, and trust that the next idea is already waiting to be found.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a fashion designer from Slovenia, creating unique, sustainable pieces that tell a story. My journey started in my mother’s sewing studio, where my childhood passion for design grew into a lifelong dedication. Even then, I knew clothing could be more than just functional—it could carry meaning.
Today, through my brand NAT., I craft fashion for those who value sustainability, artistry, and authenticity. Each piece is made from carefully selected natural fabrics, designed to feel good, be long-lasting and seamlessly fit into everyday life. I personally test every material to ensure comfort, durability and aesthetics.
For me, fashion is storytelling—every design reflects individuality and care. Beyond personal wardrobes, my pieces also come to life on fashion runways, where I share my vision with a wider audience. Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand my collections and collaborate with other creatives, believing the best ideas emerge through shared perspectives.
More than just trends, fashion should empower. It’s a reflection of who we are, a language of self-expression. My goal is to create designs that feel personal, meaningful, and lasting—pieces that grow with you.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three most important qualities in my journey have been observation, action, and patience.
Train yourself to notice the details—the way colors interact in nature, the energy of a room, or what feels missing. Observation isn’t just about the world around you; it’s also about understanding yourself—what excites you, what fuels your creativity, and what you want to express.
If you feel the urge to create, start now. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or the right materials. Creativity isn’t about having everything in place—it’s about making something with what you have. That’s often where the most beautiful ideas begin.
Most importantly, trust the process. Creativity doesn’t happen instantly. Trial and error, frustration, and unexpected breakthroughs are all part of the journey. Give your ideas space to grow, and they’ll take you further than you imagined.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
I believe it’s important to find a balance between nurturing your strengths and improving areas where you’re not as strong. While it’s essential to embrace what you’re naturally good at and build on that, growth often comes when we challenge ourselves to step outside our comfort zone and invest in developing other skills.
When I first started in fashion design, my creativity was my strength. I was passionate and driven, but I quickly realized that I needed to improve my business and marketing skills to succeed. It wasn’t always easy—there were moments when I felt overwhelmed and unsure. But with time, I gained confidence in these areas, and they became just as important to my journey as my creative skills.
That said, I still believe it’s important to focus on what excites you and what you’re best at. Strengths give you a sense of direction and purpose, but the willingness to grow beyond them opens up even more possibilities. By investing in both our strengths and areas of growth, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling path forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://natlesjak.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nat.lesjak/
Image Credits
Personal Photo:
Karin Rošker
Additional Photos:
Collection Apoteoza, Karin Rošker
Collection My Circus My Monkeys, Collection Lovers Eyes, Neža Ternik
Archive of the Regional Museum Maribor
Humanitarian Fashion Show ROZA OKTOBER IN MOŠKA “MODA”, Marijo Županov, Photo by Tatjana
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
