MESHKI Masterclass: From $400 to a Global Fashion Empire 

At a recent ICMS masterclass, MESHKI co-founder Natalie Khoei shared how she went from university student with a side hustle to leader of a global fashion brand, offering invaluable advice to students. 

Speaking to a packed audience, Natalie reflected on her journey as a business founder and leader. Her key takeaway? Education matters – and so does just getting started. 

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For students stepping into the world of business, Natalie was clear in her guidance.  

“If you have an idea for a business, just start. Don’t wait for the perfect moment because it doesn’t exist,” she said.  

However, she emphasised the importance of balancing your goals with your education. 

“In the early days of MESHKI, I was studying architecture, working a casual retail job, and running the business on the side,” she said.  

“Keeping all those things going took the pressure off. It made the process exciting rather than overwhelming.” 

Her advice was practical – use your studies as a safety net.  

“Keep studying; don’t drop out. Build your vision step by step. Once your idea gains traction and you’ve built some stability with sales, then you can leap into it full-time,” Natalie advised. 

From a Side Hustle to a Global Brand 

Natalie’s own story demonstrates her advice in action.  

While initially pursuing a degree in architecture at UNSW, she began exploring her love for fashion through a small Instagram page she co-managed with her co-founder. 

“In between classes, we’d sit on beanbags in the library and post on Instagram, selling small accessories and wholesale clothing,” Natalie said.  

They reinvested every dollar into the business, starting with just $200 each. 

After completing her architecture degree, Natalie focused fully on MESHKI.  

A breakthrough came in 2016 when their first in-house collection went viral, worn by celebrities like Kylie Jenner.  

MESHKI has since grown into a successful global fashion brand with millions of followers and a strong reputation for quality and timeless design. 

Why Education Helped 

Although Natalie moved into fashion after graduation, she credits her architecture degree with shaping key skills.  

“Architecture taught me resilience and problem-solving. It’s such a demanding degree – you’re pushed to meet deadlines and overcome challenges constantly. Those skills translate directly to growing a business,” she explained. 

The technical skills she gained, like Photoshop and graphic design, were also integral.  

“We were designing our logo, editing photos, and even sketching clothing designs using what I learned at university. It shows that even outside your chosen field, your degree can give you tools to succeed,” she said. 

MESHKI’s Mission 

Beyond success, Natalie shared MESHKI’s commitment to empowering women.  

“At MESHKI, we design clothes that help women feel confident and unstoppable. Whether it’s for an interview or a special moment, we aim to give the wearer that extra boost of confidence,” she said. 

The brand also values sustainability and inclusivity.  

“We focus on timeless, re-wearable pieces that prioritise quality.  

“And in everything we do, we want our customers – from all walks of life – to feel represented and valued,” Natalie explained. 

Today, Natalie is proud to lead a team where 95% of employees are women, many of whom have grown within the company. 

“We try to create opportunities for our team just like I was given. Empowerment starts from within,” she said. 

Just Start – But Start Smart 

Natalie’s entrepreneurial success is a reminder that it’s never about waiting for the stars to align –it’s about balancing your ambitions with thoughtful, practical steps. 

Her final words of advice?  

“Success isn’t about perfection. It’s about starting, learning along the way, and being brave enough to take the leap when the time is right.” 

ICMS students left the session inspired and with a clearer sense of how to balance education, ambition, and building something remarkable.  

For Natalie Khoei, it’s just as much about the effort you put in now as it is about the success waiting down the road. 

Equipping Students for the Future 

This masterclass is another example of ICMS’s industry-focused approach to education.  

By inviting industry experts to campus, students gain direct access to professional insights and networks that might otherwise feel out of reach. 

This insight is part of what makes ICMS masterclasses so valuable.  

They connect education to real industry demands, helping students graduate with the tools and experiences needed to succeed.  

ICMS President and Managing Director Rowan Courtney-O’Connor highlighted the significance of these sessions, saying, “Our Masterclasses give students a rare opportunity to hear directly from leaders who have walked the path they aspire to take.  

“It’s about more than just inspiration – these sessions offer real-world advice, mentorship, and a chance to bridge the gap between education and industry.” 

From left: ICMS President and Managing Director Rowan Courtney-O’Connor with MESHKI Co-Founder and Co-CEO Natalie Khoei, and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Learning and Teaching) Professor Heidi Le Sueur.