Milan Fashion Week witnessed an extraordinary moment as Flying Solo unveiled its first show at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Milano. The event featured over 70 up-and-coming designers from around the world, blending contemporary ready-to-wear and glamorous eveningwear into a vibrant celebration of fashion’s future. With the venue’s elegant architecture and lush gardens as the backdrop, the show seamlessly intertwined fashion and accessories, turning each look into a story of style and innovation.
Alina Kotsiuba, the head stylist, orchestrated a diverse range of ensembles that masterfully combined different elements, giving accessories a starring role. One of the key highlights was the reinterpretation of denim, where oversized shirts paired with mini skirts became an elevated streetwear statement. These looks were complemented by knee-high suede boots, creating a bold yet effortless aesthetic. Structured, woven handbags added a polished touch, making these ensembles versatile and perfect for the urban fashionista.
Flowing satin dresses in striking shades like crimson were also showcased, embodying a timeless elegance. Accessories played a pivotal role here, with sculptural handbags featuring bold shapes and textures, offering an avant-garde twist that elevated the sophistication of each look. Statement jewelry, including layered necklaces and oversized earrings, further amplified the luxe feel, drawing attention to the meticulous detailing in every piece.
Soft, neutral hues dominated another segment of the show, with delicate ruched dresses that exuded sophistication. Paired with oversized shoulder bags and chunky platform sandals, these outfits emphasized the power of accessories in transforming simplicity into standout style. The neutral color palette allowed the bags and shoes to become focal points, showcasing their design intricacies and functionality.
Accessories such as contemporary belts and minimalist shoulder bags showcased a blend of craftsmanship and modern design, turning traditional fabric into something fresh and eye-catching.
The show culminated with powerful leather looks featuring structured coats and strong lines. Accessories like platform boots and architectural sunglasses added an edgy vibe, reinforcing the boldness of these ensembles. The choice of accessories, carefully matched to the outfits, played a vital role in creating a statement of strength and confidence.
Throughout the event, Mariya Nicole, head of photo and video production, captured each look with finesse, emphasizing the harmony between the venue’s grandeur and the intricacy of the accessories. By framing each model against the luxurious backdrop of Milanese architecture and greenery, the show celebrated not only the garments but also the artistry of accessorizing.
Flying Solo’s debut in Milan set a new benchmark for integrating accessories as an integral part of runway storytelling, showcasing the talent and creativity of emerging designers on an international platform. The emphasis on thoughtfully paired accessories highlighted the transformative power they hold in fashion, ensuring that the collections left a memorable mark on Milan Fashion Week.
A. KAR by Adrine Karapetyan
Founded by Adrine Karapetyan, A. KAR by Adrine Karapetyan is a Los Angeles-based fashion brand known for its luxurious, handcrafted pieces that blend fashion with art. With a background as a successful scientist, Adrine’s lifelong passion for creating unique, never-before-seen fashion led her to master various multimedia techniques and eventually launch her brand. A. KAR offers a range of wearable art, including handbags, scarves, brooches, necklaces, and other accessories, designed for the confident, bold woman who loves to stand out in a crowd.
The upcoming collection, inspired by bold animal prints and vibrant colors, expands upon Adrine’s creative experimentation. It includes fashion-forward statement colors and textures, reflecting her background as a scientist who loves to explore and experiment. A. KAR aims to encourage women to embrace their adventurous side, reminding them that life is meant to be lived fully. Adrine’s advice for aspiring designers is to embrace their inner child—fearless, confident, and endlessly creative—ensuring that the passion and energy put into each piece translate into a powerful experience for customers.
Angelina Swann
Angelina Swann, founded by Kelechi Okengwu, is a fashion brand created to empower women and celebrate their innate beauty. The brand stands as a reflection for women to see their own strength and elegance, with a simple but powerful message: “You are beautiful, and you are enough.” Angelina Swann is dedicated to producing collections that honor femininity, resilience, and self-love.
The latest collection from Angelina Swann draws inspiration from the Sahara Desert, symbolizing the strength that emerges from challenging environments. Like the desert’s plants and animals that thrive despite harsh conditions, this collection represents the resilience of women. Featuring colors like bronze for desert sands, green for its scarce vegetation, and pink for stunning sunsets, each piece is designed to embody the beauty and strength that comes from embracing life’s trials. With a vision that encourages women to flow through challenges and grow stronger, Angelina Swann seeks to inspire confidence and self-worth in every wearer.
AYTCHELL
AYTCHELL is a luxury fashion brand born from the vision of three passionate individuals—Luna Hajjar, Zaven Lepedjian, and Maria Hajjar—each deeply rooted in Lebanese culture. Founded in Beirut, AYTCHELL merges traditional Lebanese artisanal craftsmanship with contemporary design, celebrating a rich cultural heritage through meticulous craftsmanship. The brand’s collections are designed to embody luxury, elegance, and timeless artistry, while promoting local craftsmanship and supporting the Lebanese artisanal community.
AYTCHELL’s collections are inspired by resilience and cultural identity, with each piece telling a unique story. The Sweetheart collection symbolizes the balance between strength and femininity, while the Slider collection is inspired by the resilience of the Lebanese Cedar tree, representing strength and durability. The Phoenix collection embodies the journey of rebirth and resilience, reflecting universal experiences of overcoming challenges.
Be-diamond
Be-diamond is a family-owned jewelry brand founded by Nathalie, who brings her unique background as an airline pilot and her passion for jewelry design to the business. After a career as a Boeing 757 pilot ended due to health issues, Nathalie transitioned to jewelry design, a hobby she enjoyed while her husband, a diamond expert, handled the diamonds. Together, they combine Nathalie’s creative vision and her husband’s expertise to create stunning pieces. Be-diamond uses only natural diamonds and 18K gold, working with the best craftsmen in Antwerp to produce high-quality, minimalist jewelry designed to last a lifetime.
The inspiration behind Be-diamond is Nathalie’s love of fashion and her desire to create timeless pieces that allow her to express herself through diamonds, much like an artist with a brush. The latest collection focuses on pure minimalism while remaining innovative, incorporating semi-precious stones to add a touch of color to clean, straight lines. Be-diamond’s message to its audience is clear: to create jewelry that is both elegant and enduring, using only noble materials that stand the test of time. Nathalie’s advice to aspiring fashion brand founders is simple: believe in your dreams, no matter how crazy they may seem.
Bo·be
bo·be Jewellery, founded by Landy Lin Kermode, combines beauty and purpose, aiming to fund critical medical research through the sale of elegant jewellery. The brand, driven by the guiding creed “A better world through better spending,” invites consumers to make an impact with each purchase. Inspired by her late father’s resilience and community-building legacy, Landy aims to create jewellery that not only enhances personal style but also supports a greater cause, empowering individuals to be part of a collective mission for a healthier, better future.
The new collection, Unity Dolls, celebrates cultural diversity and intergenerational collaboration. Designed by Landy and her 12-year-old daughter, Lin Ling, the collection features doll charms representing different cultures, adorned with meaningful symbols and gemstones. The collaboration reflects their personal stories and the spirit of global unity, emphasizing the beauty of coexistence. Landy advises aspiring fashion brand founders to root their brands in a deeper purpose, aligning creativity with authenticity to offer consumers not just products, but meaningful experiences.
Borboleta bag
Veronica Race, the founder of Borboleta, a handbag brand established in 2012, merges her love for fashion and sustainability. With a background that spans childhood in Bangkok and education across the US, Italy, and France, Veronica’s global experiences inspire her designs. Borboleta’s handbags, crafted from microfiber leather, reflect her belief that fashion should not harm the planet or animals. Designed for the modern woman, the bags offer functional features like back zipper pockets and sunglasses holders, making them stylish yet practical companions for everyday life.
Inspired by her passion for travel, Veronica’s brand embodies the spirit of exploration and ethical production. Borboleta bags are lightweight, cruelty-free, and made with high-quality, vegan leather, offering both durability and style. The brand’s latest collection, “Fairy,” draws from fairytales, adding an enchanting touch to classic silhouettes with bold colors and unique details. Beyond fashion, Borboleta contributes to social causes, donating to educational programs and supporting artisans through fair wages and ethical working conditions.
Deema Murad
Deema Murad, a talented jewelry designer with a multicultural background, creates unique, handmade pieces that empower the wearer. Her jewelry, crafted with love and precision, is designed to evoke a sense of control and safety, allowing individuals to embrace their inner strength. Each piece reflects her dedication to authenticity and ethical craftsmanship, enhancing the natural beauty of the wearer while providing a deeper connection to the art form.
With a global perspective shaped by living in six countries, Deema draws from a rich blend of cultural influences. Currently based in Portugal, she holds a degree in Design & Communication from the University of Reading, along with two MAs—one in Design Studies from Central Saint Martins in London and another in Contemporary Jewellery and Body Ornaments from Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School in Florence. Her academic background and artistic passion converge in her thoughtful, conceptually intelligent creations that stand out in the world of contemporary jewelry.
Ebaneza
Ebaneza, a fashion brand founded by Ebony Ealey, stands at the intersection of timeless elegance and modern innovation. The brand was born out of a passion for redefining self-expression through clothing, merging classic silhouettes with contemporary sensibilities. The inspiration behind Ebaneza was to create a brand that speaks to individuals who value quality and authenticity, offering pieces that go beyond mere aesthetics and become treasured elements of personal storytelling.
The latest collection, “Heritage Reimagined,” is a tribute to cultural roots and traditional craftsmanship, infused with a modern twist. It draws from vintage silhouettes and intricate textiles, blending old-world charm with contemporary relevance. The collection incorporates sustainable materials and ethical production practices, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to conscious fashion. Ebaneza aims to transcend seasonal trends, offering pieces that empower individuals to express their unique style while embracing timeless sophistication.
Eclat by Oui
Éclat by Oui is a Singapore-based jewelry brand founded by Ethel in 2017. Specializing in handcrafted pieces designed for travel and beyond, the brand was born after Ethel lost her engagement ring in 2016 and decided to create her own travel ring, eventually expanding into fine jewelry.
The concept of Éclat by Oui revolves around creating luxurious jewelry that complements a life of wanderlust. The new collection features bold yet classic designs, incorporating black diamonds for an edgier feel. Ethel’s advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is simple: “You have got to just do it.”
FUNDAO
Fundao Baesakul is the designer and art director of FUNDAO, a brand that embodies the concept “Mother of Nature to the City Life.” Inspired by the way nature has always been central to human existence, FUNDAO aims to bring the beauty and diversity of the natural world into the fast-paced life of modern cities. The brand blends the aesthetics of nature with art and fashion to create pieces that bring positive energy to urban dwellers.
The inspiration behind starting the brand came from Fundao’s passion for fashion, particularly in bag making and leather wear. The latest collection, “Lupo,” draws its name from the Italian word for “fox,” representing its sleek and elongated design. The collection, debuted at Milan Fashion Week, pays homage to Fundao’s bag-making studies in Milan. For those aspiring to start their own fashion brand, Fundao advises being true to yourself, staying focused on your goals, and being passionate about your craft.
Gauhar
Gaga Murray is the founder of Gauhar, a jewelry brand launched in 2018 in Dubai and now operating out of Miami, USA. Named after the Arabic word for “diamond,” Gauhar was born from her passion for art, architecture, and design, as well as her love for working with gemstones. Gaga sees jewelry as timeless art that can carry memories and be cherished across generations.
The inspiration for Gauhar’s latest collection comes from Gaga’s cultural roots in Kazakhstan and Dubai, blending elements of these rich traditions with a modern aesthetic. The collection features versatile pieces meant for mixing, matching, or wearing solo, with the goal of making the wearer feel unique and confident. Gaga advises aspiring jewelry designers to immerse themselves in the craft, gain formal education in gemology, and embrace the joy of experimentation in their creative process.
Inchoo Bijoux
Astrid is the owner and head designer of Inchoo Bijoux, a Goth and Glam handcrafted jewelry brand based in Montreal, Canada. Inchoo Bijoux is known for its intricate designs and modern twists on dark, poetic themes, crafted for those who embrace their unique differences. Each piece is handcrafted in their Montreal workshop, and the brand has been featured in notable TV shows, movies, and on celebrities like Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Garner, and Dolly Parton. Recently, Inchoo Bijoux celebrated 15 years in business.
Astrid’s inspiration stems from her cultural heritage—her grandfather was a clock repairer and cartographer, and her Armenian roots instilled a love for sacred objects and small details. Her passion for poetry and gothic aesthetics influences her work, creating pieces that evoke emotions, beauty, and individuality. Inchoo Bijoux’s newest collection blends Gothic and Baroque aesthetics with a bridal twist, featuring bold architectural engagement rings and statement necklaces. Her advice for aspiring jewelry designers is to surround themselves with a supportive team and follow their intuition, as collaboration and heart-led decision-making are key to success.
ITSHOES
IT SHOES, founded by Spanish designer Isis Alarcón, is a brand born from a dream to craft boots that embody women’s power and elevate their style. Inspired by a successful experiment on her fashion blog in 2011, IT SHOES now offers handcrafted boots that promise to make any outfit stand out. Each collection reflects Alarcón’s mission to design boots that help women feel fierce and confident, blending timeless design with a contemporary twist. With a commitment to top-quality craftsmanship, all products are made in Spain and Portugal, using the finest materials from family-run factories.
As a mother of four, Alarcón’s energetic lifestyle mirrors her dedication to every aspect of her business, from design to production and creativity. Her passion is clear, and she believes that success is driven by total commitment and hard work. IT SHOES has become a favorite among influencers and women around the world who value both style and comfort, as well as a brand that celebrates strength, femininity, and responsible craftsmanship.
IZA BY SILVIA D’AVILA
The influence of France, particularly Paris, on art and architecture is undeniable, and it has deeply inspired the latest collection, Ode to Paris. Although Silvia D’Avila does not have a direct cultural connection to France, their relationship with the country has been shaped by years of studying art and architecture through books, observations, and work trips to the city of lights. Paris evokes a profound sense of belonging through its careful preservation of heritage while embracing the modern world. Whether strolling through museums or sitting in a cozy coffee shop, the city’s leisurely pace and artistic spirit have left a lasting impact on the designer.
Ode to Paris is a reflection of these experiences, capturing the charm, beauty, and timeless elegance of the French capital. Inspired by the awe of seeing children sketching in museums and the simplicity of grabbing a book in a local café, the collection brings to life the essence of Parisian culture. Through thoughtful design and craftsmanship, this collection aims to remind the wearer of the creativity and inspiration that Paris has to offer.
Lesotho Jewellery
Lesotho Jewellery is dedicated to the essence of beauty, offering a carefully curated collection of fine jewelry in 14K and 18K gold, diamonds, and silver. With a passion for exceptional craftsmanship, the brand’s mission is to provide customers with exquisite pieces that reflect elegance and sophistication. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of Lesotho Jewellery, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and design.
Beyond their stunning selection, Lesotho Jewellery also offers personalized service, encouraging customers to bring their unique visions to life. If you can’t find what you’re looking for on their site, the team is ready to collaborate with you, transforming your ideas into bespoke designs. Lesotho Jewellery invites you to embark on a journey of excellence, where fine craftsmanship and personalized attention create pieces that are truly timeless.
María Salinas
María Salinas is a distinguished jewelry brand based in Monterrey, Mexico, dedicated to showcasing the craftsmanship of Mexican designers and artisans. With a focus on offering the highest quality in every detail, each piece is meticulously crafted to reflect the artistry and cultural richness of the region. The brand’s commitment to excellence is evident in its use of premium materials and innovative designs that stand apart from the conventional, resulting in jewelry that is both elegant and distinctive.
What sets María Salinas apart is its devotion to creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. The combination of carefully selected materials and unconventional designs ensures that each item embodies both originality and sophistication. Through this approach, María Salinas not only supports local artisans but also brings a fresh perspective to the world of jewelry, offering customers an exquisite collection that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.
Midi34
Jessie Bourgault is the founder of Midi34, a minimalist jewelry brand based in Quebec, established in 2017. The brand name “Midi34” represents 12:34, a time of great significance in Jessie’s life. Midi34 offers high-quality yet affordable jewelry for both women and men. The women’s collection features pieces made in gold vermeil, while the men’s collection is crafted from stainless steel. Jessie’s aim is to create jewelry that complements various outfits and occasions, allowing wearers to express themselves effortlessly.
Inspired by a deeply personal journey, Jessie turned to jewelry-making following a tragic event, which ultimately reconnected her with her artistic roots. The brand’s message revolves around the idea that each piece of jewelry holds a story, marking special moments, people, or emotions in one’s life. The latest collection from Midi34 blends gold and silver, a combination that symbolizes versatility and timeless fashion. Jessie’s advice for aspiring fashion brand founders is to trust their creativity, be resilient, and accept the ups and downs of the journey, as success is born from perseverance.
Montana
Beth Aimée, a jewelry designer from Montana, is the founder of beth aimée jewelry, which specializes in elegant, architectural pieces designed for collectors seeking original heirloom-quality jewelry. Inspired by the desire to create functional art that allows people to define their own aesthetic, Beth aims to craft handcrafted, wearable jewelry that makes people feel unique and attractive.
Beth’s new collection, designed for Milan Fashion Week, draws inspiration from Italian architecture. It features sculptural, architectural designs that are both visually interesting and easy to wear. Her jewelry, made from sterling silver, gold, and gemstones, emphasizes a rustic simplicity, connecting the wearer to the earth and to the craftsmanship behind each piece. Beth encourages aspiring fashion entrepreneurs to take the leap, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the profound satisfaction that comes from building a brand and bringing joy to others through their creations.
N!ne
Tim and Rebecca are the father-daughter duo behind their family-run brand, N!ne handbags, creating unique bags since 2010. Originally focused on silversmithing, their exploration of new creative paths led them to develop a handbag brand that combines different materials for a truly unique experience. Their love for craft and design drives the brand, resulting in every bag being a distinctive, carefully crafted piece.
Their brand concept revolves around uniqueness—everyone is unique, and so is every bag they create. Their latest collection is inspired by practicality, featuring a design that can expand to accommodate varying amounts of belongings. Their signature silhouettes and handcrafted elements make each bag truly one-of-a-kind. For aspiring designers, their advice is simple: don’t give up, and remember, if it’s got to happen for someone, why not you?
NATC JEWELS
NATC Jewels, founded in Cyprus in 2011 by acclaimed jewelry and interior designer Natasa Christodoulou, offers luxury and limited-series accessories at accessible prices. Inspired by her studies at Politecnico di Milano and collaborations with brands like Dolce & Gabbana, DSquared2, and Anna Molinari, Natasa brings her love for glamorous design into every piece. Each item is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, blending timeless elegance with trend-forward style. NATC Jewels has been honored twice by Luxury Lifestyle Awards as the “Best Luxury Jewelry Brand in Europe,” emphasizing its commitment to redefining exclusivity in fashion.
The new collection, “Asia – Dragons & the Dynasties,” draws inspiration from the rich histories of various Asian civilizations, featuring dragons symbolizing power and good fortune, and opulent designs reflecting dynastic heritage. Natasa encourages aspiring fashion entrepreneurs to follow their dreams, embrace creativity, and ignore the rules—highlighting that fashion is about innovation and personal expression.
Native Diva Creations
Melrene Saloy-EagleSpeaker, a proud Blackfoot from the Kainai Nation in southern Alberta, Canada, is the owner and designer of Native Diva Creations. Native Diva Creations offers handcrafted beaded First Nations jewelry, accessories, and one-of-a-kind clothing collections that are showcased on runways. Melrene’s brand was born from her desire to see proper and authentic representation of herself and her culture in fashion, making a space where her daughter and other Indigenous people can feel seen and celebrated.
The concept of Native Diva Creations revolves around authenticity and representation, with every design embodying the culture and history of First Nations people. The latest collection uses sheer fabrics and fringe to symbolize themes of reclaiming sexuality and challenging stereotypes, making each piece a statement of resilience and strength. Melrene advises aspiring fashion designers to have a clear sense of “why” they are creating, as this will become the backbone of all their work. Most importantly, she encourages them to take the leap—life is too short to wait for the perfect time, and passion can lead to incredible opportunities, like showcasing at New York Fashion Week.
Papapetch.h
Papapetch.h is a handmade bag brand from Thailand, founded by Prowpetch, whose name fittingly means “Brilliant Diamond.” Drawing from her fascination with vintage aesthetics, travel, and natural elements, Papapetch.h creates timeless pieces that tell a story. The brand combines old-fashioned fabric designs with contemporary fashion, resulting in a unique collection that embodies the spirit of “Old fashioned but in trend.” Each bag is made using high-quality vegan leather, weaving, and embroidery fabrics, with every detail handcrafted to reflect a deep love for artistry and craftsmanship.
The heart of Papapetch.h lies in its narrative approach, where every collection takes customers on a journey of exploration. Inspired by Prowpetch’s experiences, such as her life-changing trip to India, the designs celebrate architecture, nature, and the intricacies of the world through a vintage lens. The latest collection, “Hide and Seek,” embodies the beauty of self-discovery, using rich textures and intricate designs to convey themes of personal growth and finding inner beauty. Papapetch.h invites customers to travel with the brand, embracing the vintage spirit and unique stories captured in each carefully crafted piece.
Percy World Jewelry
Percy Jewelry, founded by Mary Slavonia, is a made-to-order jewelry brand that blends quality craftsmanship with affordability and ethical sourcing. Mary’s journey into jewelry design began over five years ago, fueled by her passion for the industry and the desire to create pieces that are both sustainable and accessible. As the creative director, Mary is committed to minimizing fashion waste, using ethically sourced metals and stones, and bridging the gap between high-quality products and reasonable pricing.
Percy Jewelry is a conscious brand dedicated to empowering individuals through self-expression. The newest collection draws inspiration from Catholic art and Renaissance architecture, incorporating the vibrant colors and intricate aesthetics of that era. Mary’s vision is to make fashion a space for authentic expression, free from gender constraints, and to ensure every piece resonates with the wearer’s unique identity.
Ptera Jewelry
Jennifer Fleites, a 25-year-old second-generation Cubana with a background in systems and electrical engineering, is the founder of Ptera—a jewelry brand that embodies femininity, elegance, and a nostalgic touch inspired by fairytales. After an impulsive decision to quit her job in early 2022, Jennifer embarked on a creative journey to fulfill her childhood dream of working in fashion. Ptera represents her passion for embracing beauty, elegance, and the magic of happily ever afters.
Ptera’s jewelry is crafted from high-quality gold and silver, focusing on both quality and storytelling. Jennifer’s latest collection is inspired by nature and her late mother, who embodied grace and elegance. Each piece is a tribute to her mother’s memory, representing the intricate beauty of the land, sky, and sea. Her advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to give yourself grace and push beyond your comfort zone—ignore negative thoughts, embrace the challenges, and put in the effort to learn and grow.
Seen Eyewear
Seen, founded by Saudi entrepreneur Sara Alattas, is a trendy and innovative eyewear brand that has been making waves in the fashion industry for over a decade. Inspired by a personal experience in her teenage years, Alattas sought to create affordable yet fashionable sunglasses that provide high quality without the luxury price tag. Her entrepreneurial journey began when she realized the importance of crafting durable and stylish eyewear that could cater to a wider audience. Today, Seen has grown into a beloved brand offering a range of chic, on-trend sunglasses that fuse fashion with functionality.
The brand focuses on producing high-quality, stylish eyewear that reflects modern trends while maintaining affordability. Sara Alattas emphasizes craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring each pair of sunglasses embodies both luxury and practicality. With its roots in Saudi Arabia, Seen is not only a fashion statement but also a reflection of Alattas’ entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to bringing global fashion trends to her local audience
SOLOMEINA
Ekaterina and Elizabeth are two sisters — one based in London, the other in New York. Having enjoyed successful careers within the creative industry and built several businesses, they are different in many ways, yet united by a shared passion for beautiful objects. They find constant inspiration in the remarkable women who defy the odds and achieve the extraordinary.
For Elizabeth and Ekaterina Jewellery has always held a special place in their lives. “We each had a special ring to wear for important meetings and a pair of earrings that made us feel especially fabulous. We wanted to create jewelry you can wear to the board meeting and the red carpet” – Ekaterina shares
“However, as we grew older, it became increasingly difficult to find jewelry that truly resonated with us” — Elizabeth continues, “…pieces that were elegant, modern, and opulent, yet far from boring. Something we could comfortably wear to work, but also to a red carpet event.”
And so, Solomeina was born, jewelry that encapsulates the duality of women — where beauty meets strength, nature meets structure, and intelligence meets empathy.
Solomeina is created by women, for women, to celebrate women.
Stephanie Keyser
Stephanie Keyser is the founder and designer of Stephanie Keyser Designs, an accessory brand that blends practicality with style. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, Stephanie was inspired to start her own brand after consistently noticing trends in the market. Her journey began when she identified the rising popularity of totes and decided to create her own design. Working with a USA-based factory, she launched her first product, the Kennedy Tote, in May 2023, followed by the Cali Tote in May 2024, along with coordinating accessories.
Stephanie Keyser Designs is built on a concept of creating clean, sleek, and structured bags that are both modern and timeless. The brand focuses on practicality for the everyday woman, with lightweight and easy-to-clean bags that come with functional features like the wristlet handle, which can attach to the totes for added convenience. The brand’s message is clear: fashion should be functional, and Stephanie’s designs offer both style and seamless everyday utility.
Stilts Shoes
Christopher Williams, CEO and Founder of Stilts Inc., is at the helm of a trailblazing fashion brand focused on innovative designs and high-quality footwear for both men and women. Alongside his brother, David Williams, who serves as COO, Stilts Inc. combines luxury with comfort, ensuring that style and ease are never compromised. The brand’s core mission is to create shoes that make the wearer feel glamorous, confident, and ready to take on any challenge.
The inspiration behind Stilts Inc. began with Christopher’s early exposure to the fashion world through a black-owned boutique in Harlem, which sparked his passion for designing unique footwear. Their latest collection, the Zig Zag Collection, draws from the work of influential Black artists like Jacob Lawrence and Jean-Michel Basquiat, celebrating African-American culture through bold, intricate designs. Christopher advises aspiring fashion entrepreneurs to be ready for the hard work required and to remain steadfast in their commitment to their vision.
Tamara Von Arx (Swiss Couture)
Tamara Von Arx is the owner and founder of her eponymous brand, Tamara Von Arx, which creates couture bags in Switzerland. With years of experience as a designer for luxury companies, Tamara was inspired by the exquisite materials she worked with, motivating her to start her own line of handbags and accessories that emphasize craftsmanship and quality.
The concept of Tamara Von Arx’s brand centers around handmade luxury, focusing on unique, sustainable bags and accessories crafted from high-quality materials. Her upcoming Spring/Summer collection is inspired by natural beauty and features crystal embellishments, reflecting elegance and refinement. Tamara’s advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is simple: stay true to your vision.
Terima kasih kemBali
Terima Kasih KemBali is an Indonesian jewelry and fashion accessories brand that embraces a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern design. Founded by Inrara, the brand’s name, which means “thank you, you’re welcome,” reflects its core values of gratitude and mindfulness. The brand collaborates with skilled Indonesian artisans to create handmade pieces that tell visual stories inspired by travel and personal expression.
The designs feature vibrant colors and rich textures, incorporating unexpected materials to craft statement necklaces, earrings, brooches, and hand-crocheted bags made from natural fibers. Terima Kasih KemBali’s mission goes beyond fashion; it seeks to promote gratitude and positivity while also supporting contemporary craftsmanship. The brand has garnered attention for its unique approach to design, making it a favorite among fashion-conscious individuals who value both style and meaning
Touchless
Dalal and Fatema Alkhaja are the co-founders of TOUCHLESS, an online fashion store based in Bahrain that focuses on creating artistic and sustainable accessories using advanced 3D printing technology. With backgrounds in Interior Architecture, Management, and Finance, they combine their skills to bring eco-friendly, unique designs to life. Their brand embraces innovation, using technology to significantly reduce waste while crafting distinctive fashion accessories.
TOUCHLESS was inspired during the COVID-19 pandemic when the sisters used 3D printing to produce touch-free tools and personal protective gear for their community. This experience sparked the idea to apply 3D printing to fashion, leading them to create handbags that are visually striking, lightweight, and easy to sanitize. Their new collection pushes the limits of 3D printing, incorporating exaggerated movement and larger designs than before, showcasing their commitment to innovation and creativity. Their advice to aspiring fashion entrepreneurs is to love what you do, focus on meaningful contributions like sustainability, and stay true to your vision, even when faced with challenges.
Y.Han
Youngeun Han is the founder and award-winning designer behind Y.Han, a New York City-based jewelry brand that stands out for its innovative and sculptural approach. Educated at the Rhode Island School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology, Youngeun brings a multi-disciplinary background in visual arts, graphic design, and jewelry design to her collections. Since 2011, she has been creating pieces that are not only visually striking but also rooted in her love for geometric shapes, architectural forms, and body movements. Her designs have earned international recognition, including first and second-place wins in the prestigious MJSA awards.
The Y.Han collections are known for challenging conventional design norms, offering pieces that appeal to leaders and risk-takers. Youngeun’s work invites wearers to experience jewelry as both art and self-expression, blending bold graphic images with sculptural elegance. Her pieces are not just accessories but wearable art, designed for those who embrace uniqueness and dare to stand out.
YUGEN LOVE
Yugen Love is a boutique jewelry brand based in Queensland, Australia, founded by me. My inspiration came from a deep love for the beauty that lies beneath both the Earth and the ocean, which began in childhood with my fascination for gold and gemstones brought home by my prospector grandfather. Over the years, my passion for gemstones grew, eventually leading me to launch Yugen Love in 2021. Specializing in gemstone, gold vermeil, and pearl jewelry, we produce small batch or one-of-a-kind pieces, with a recent focus on upcycling vintage designs.
The concept of Yugen Love is inspired by the Japanese word “Yugen,” which describes an awareness of the universe that evokes a deep emotional response beyond words. This concept guides our brand, as I strive to create jewelry that evokes awe and mystery. My latest collection is inspired by “Kintsugi,” the Japanese tradition of repairing broken pottery with gold, celebrating imperfections as part of the beauty of life. For aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, my advice is to trust yourself, do thorough research, and embrace rejections and setbacks as part of the process.
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