"Building your skills and finding your voice takes time, but it’s so worth it. And most importantly, have fun with it! Remember, it’s about the process as much as the final product."
My creative journey started way back when I was a kid. I’ve always been drawn to arts and crafts, sewing, and just making things with my hands. I grew up watching my mom sew, and that’s what sparked my interest in creating my own clothes and accessories. Later, when I discovered platforms like YouTube and TikTok, I realized I could share my passion with a much larger audience, and that’s how it all began. I remember my first YouTube upload—a DIY project for revamping an old pair of jeans—and being so thrilled when it got a handful of views. It was those small wins that motivated me to keep going.
Q. You’re known for blending fashion, DIY, and aesthetic storytelling seamlessly. How do you come up with ideas for your projects?
My ideas come from everywhere! It could be a song, a movie, or even something I see while scrolling through Pinterest. I love mixing trends with personal touches. For instance, I’ll see a trending outfit but think, “How can I make this my own?” I also draw a lot of inspiration from my cultural heritage and try to incorporate elements that feel authentic to me. For example, one of my recent projects involved creating a modern twist on traditional Filipino clothing. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding to merge history with contemporary fashion.
Q. Your content often features vibrant colors and intricate designs. What role does aesthetics play in your creative process?
Aesthetics are everything! I’m a very visual person, so I’m always thinking about how colors, patterns, and textures work together. When I plan a project, I’ll often create a mood board or sketch out my ideas to ensure the final product aligns with the vibe I’m going for. It’s all about creating something that feels cohesive and uniquely “Nava Rose.” I spend a lot of time experimenting with lighting and backdrops to ensure that my final presentation on camera reflects the mood I envisioned. Sometimes, I even plan entire photo shoots around a single DIY piece!
Q. Your TikTok videos often go viral. What’s your secret to creating content that resonates with such a wide audience?
I think it’s about being authentic and having fun. People can tell when you genuinely enjoy what you’re doing. I also pay attention to trends but try to put my own spin on them. For example, during the early days of the pandemic, I created a DIY “E-Girl” outfit from scratch, which really took off because it combined a popular aesthetic with something uniquely handmade. Another thing I focus on is storytelling—every project has a little narrative, even if it’s subtle. It’s about inviting people into my world and making them feel like they’re part of the process.
Q. What challenges have you faced as a content creator, and how have you overcome them?
One big challenge is dealing with burnout. When you’re constantly creating, it can be hard to keep up with your own expectations. I’ve learned to take breaks and give myself grace when I’m not feeling inspired. Another challenge is the pressure to always innovate and stay relevant. To overcome this, I focus on staying true to myself and my audience rather than chasing trends. There’s also the technical side—editing videos and managing multiple platforms can get overwhelming. I’ve started building a small team to help with the workload, which has been a game-changer.
Q. You’ve been open about embracing your cultural identity in your work. Can you share how your heritage influences your creativity?
Absolutely! My Filipino heritage plays a huge role in my creativity. I love incorporating traditional patterns, textiles, and stories into my projects. It’s a way to stay connected to my roots while also sharing a piece of my culture with the world. For instance, I’ve done DIY projects inspired by Filipino festivals and traditional clothing, and the response has been amazing. One of my favorite projects was creating a barong-inspired jacket—it was a hit, and it opened up conversations about Filipino culture in a global space.
Q. You’ve built a strong community online. How do you maintain that connection with your followers?
Community is everything to me. I try to stay as engaged as possible—whether it’s replying to comments, hosting live Q&A sessions, or featuring fan-made projects on my platforms. I also love asking my followers for input on my next DIY project. It makes them feel involved and gives me fresh ideas. Recently, I started a hashtag challenge where followers could share their own creations inspired by my videos. The creativity and participation were incredible—it felt like a giant virtual crafting party!
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring creators who want to start their own DIY or fashion journey?
My advice would be to just start! Don’t wait until everything is perfect because it never will be. Use what you have, experiment, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Also, be patient with yourself. Building your skills and finding your voice takes time, but it’s so worth it. And most importantly, have fun with it! Remember, it’s about the process as much as the final product. Document everything—even your failures—because those moments can be just as inspiring to your audience as your successes.
Q. What’s next for Nava Rose? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
I’ve got a lot of exciting things in the works! I’m working on launching my own line of DIY kits so that my followers can create along with me. I’m also planning more in-depth tutorials on YouTube and exploring collaborations with some amazing brands. One project I’m particularly excited about is a collection of customizable clothing pieces that blend modern trends with vintage-inspired designs. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come!
BIO :
Nava Rose is a Filipino-American content creator celebrated for her vibrant DIY projects, fashion-forward designs, and aesthetic storytelling. With a flair for blending cultural heritage and modern trends, she has amassed a global following on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Known for her creativity and authenticity, Nava inspires audiences to explore their artistic potential through accessible tutorials and imaginative ideas. Beyond crafting, she actively engages with her community, fostering connections and encouraging self-expression. Nava’s work reflects her passion for art, fashion, and individuality.
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