Modelstoday sat down with the captivating Natali, a 35-year-old model whose career has spanned from Kyiv to Milan, where she now balances two passions: fashion and furniture design. Known for her work in lingerie and high fashion, Natali also thrives as a designer for a renowned furniture company in Milan. In this interview, she opens up about her unique dual career and what it’s like to juggle two demanding but rewarding worlds.
MT: Natali, thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us! You have such a fascinating career path. How did you go from Kyiv to Milan, and how did furniture design fit into your journey?
Natali: Thank you! My journey started in Kyiv, where I began modeling in my early 20s. I loved the fashion world, but I’ve always had a creative side that went beyond modeling. After a few years of working in Eastern Europe, I realized I wanted more, both in terms of my career and personal growth. That’s when I decided to move to Milan, a city that’s not only a global fashion hub but also a center for design. Modeling is a huge part of my life, but I’ve always had a passion for interior spaces, which naturally led me to furniture design. Now, I work for a furniture company here in Milan, and I love being able to express my creativity in two completely different ways.
MT: How do you manage to balance being a successful model and a furniture designer? That seems like a lot!
Natali: It definitely keeps me on my toes! But I think the two careers complement each other. Fashion and design both require a strong sense of aesthetics, attention to detail, and the ability to stay on top of trends. A typical day might start with a furniture design meeting in the morning, where we’re discussing new concepts, and then I might head to a lingerie shoot in the afternoon. It’s all about time management and making sure I give my all to both worlds. It can be hectic, but I thrive on that energy. Plus, designing furniture gives me a break from the fast pace of fashion—it’s a different kind of creativity that balances me out.
MT: You’ve worked with so many talented photographers. We hear you have a special relationship with Franco Decker Photography—how did that come about?
Natali: Oh yes, working with Franco has been one of the highlights of my career! We first collaborated on a lingerie campaign, and from the moment we met, we clicked. He has this incredible ability to make his models feel comfortable, which is so important, especially in intimate shoots. The atmosphere on set is always relaxed but focused—there’s a real creative synergy between us. Over time, we’ve become close friends, which makes our collaborations even more fun and productive. Franco knows how to bring out the best in me, and I feel lucky to have him as both a colleague and a friend.
MT: What is it about lingerie modeling that you love? And how does it differ from your other work in high fashion?
Natali: Lingerie modeling is very empowering for me. It’s intimate, it’s personal, and it requires a lot of confidence. There’s a certain vulnerability that comes with it, but at the same time, it’s an incredible way to celebrate femininity and strength. High fashion, on the other hand, can be more about the fantasy, the avant-garde, and pushing boundaries. Both are exciting in their own way, but lingerie feels more connected to who I am as a woman. I love how it allows me to express confidence and elegance. And having photographers like Franco, who understand and respect that, makes the process even more rewarding.
MT: Dasha has a similar modeling career, but your journey also involves furniture design. How did you discover your passion for that?
Natali: I’ve always been drawn to design—since I was a little girl, I loved rearranging spaces, sketching furniture, and imagining how environments could feel better. When I moved to Milan, I saw the city’s rich design culture and knew I wanted to explore it professionally. I took some courses, started working with local designers, and eventually landed a position at a well-known furniture company. It’s a perfect balance for me. After a busy day of shoots or castings, I can immerse myself in the calm, methodical world of design, where I get to bring ideas to life in a different way.
MT: What does a day in your life look like with these two careers?
Natali: Every day is different, which is part of the excitement. Some mornings, I’ll start with a team meeting at the furniture company, going over new concepts or designs. After that, I might head to a photo shoot, especially if it’s during Milan Fashion Week or a big lingerie campaign. In the evenings, I often catch up on design projects or sketch out new ideas. It’s a constant juggling act, but I’m lucky to work in industries that I’m passionate about. The key is staying organized and loving what I do.
MT: How do you find time for yourself amidst such a busy schedule?
Natali: It’s definitely challenging, but I make it a priority. Milan is a beautiful city to live in, and when I’m not working, I try to enjoy it—whether it’s walking through the quiet streets or meeting friends for dinner. I’ve also learned to set boundaries. For example, weekends are usually for me, to relax or visit family. Balance is everything when you have two demanding careers, and I think taking care of yourself mentally and physically is just as important as success in work.
MT: What advice would you give to young models or designers who want to follow in your footsteps?
Natali: My best advice is to stay true to yourself and follow your passion, even when it’s tough. Whether it’s modeling, design, or anything else, success comes when you’re passionate about what you do. And remember that rejection is part of the process—it doesn’t define you. For models, confidence is everything. For designers, creativity and persistence are key. And for anyone balancing multiple careers, time management is your best friend! But most of all, don’t be afraid to be different. Your uniqueness is what will set you apart.
MT: What’s next for you? Any exciting projects coming up?
Natali: There’s always something exciting on the horizon! I’m working on a new lingerie campaign that I’m really excited about, and in the design world, we’re developing a new furniture line that will debut soon. I love being part of these creative worlds, and I’m always looking for new ways to push the boundaries in both modeling and design. Milan has given me so many opportunities, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
MT: Thank you so much, Natali! It’s been amazing hearing about your journey and how you balance your two passions. We can’t wait to see what comes next for you.
Natali: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure. I’m excited for the future and everything it holds.
Natali’s journey from Kyiv to Milan is an inspiring one, showing that with hard work, passion, and a love for creativity, you can truly build a fulfilling career across multiple worlds. Keep an eye out for her next projects, both in fashion and design, and expect more from her collaborations with Franco Decker Photography!
