While fashion trends come and go, the jewelry we choose reflects a more lasting form of self-expression — especially when it’s a statement piece with a meaningful story behind it. We spoke to four jewelry designers about what inspires them to create wearable art rooted in cultural identity and a passion for unique craftsmanship.

Paula Mendoza, V.BELLAN, Misho, and Notte each bring a distinct point of view shaped by their personal history and a desire to empower through design. Read on to discover what fuels these jewelry designers’ creativity and the stories behind their one-of-a-kind pieces.

1. Paula Mendoza

Paula Mendoza crafts sculptural, ethically made jewelry that fuse Colombian artistry with contemporary design; each circular represents a symbol of connection, movement, and joy.

What’s your unique take on jewelry design and what inspires you?
Paula Mendoza: Nature and people are my two biggest sources of inspiration. I find beauty in the organic, ever-changing forms of nature and the energy and strength of those who wear my pieces. My approach to jewelry is to never be afraid of boldness — each piece is meant to be a statement, to empower, and to seamlessly blend art with adornment.

How does your background inform your designs?
I originally studied journalism, which has helped me not only in the communication and organization of my brand but also in storytelling, something I believe is essential in design. My true foundation, however, is in sculpture. I see my jewelry as miniature sculptures, meticulously crafted to be both wearable and expressive. Each piece is designed with movement, structure, and fluidity in mind, creating a balance between form and function.

Who is the Paula Mendoza wearer? What does she embody?
The Paula Mendoza wearer is someone who is unapologetically confident and unafraid to be the center of attention. She or he is deeply connected to fashion, embraces individuality, and moves through life with a sense of purpose and strength. They are practical yet bold, often on-the-go, curating looks that are effortlessly stylish. More than anything, they embody power, resilience, and a sense of self-assurance, wearing each piece as a form of modern armor ready to face anything.

2. V.BELLAN

V.BELLAN is a gender-neutral New York jewelry brand blending timeless elegance with bold, architectural design. Each piece is a heartfelt tribute to love, memory, and legacy, crafted to be worn daily, cherished for generations, and created with purpose and compassion.

What’s your unique take on jewelry design and what inspires you?
Vanessa Bellan: I like jewelry that fits into real life — pieces you can throw on with a T-shirt or dress up for something special. I’m constantly on the go, so I design with that in mind: timeless styles that are versatile and low-maintenance. I launched V.BELLAN in honor of my daughter, and she continues to inspire everything I make. I often think about what she would’ve wanted to wear or borrow from me.

How does your background inform your designs?
Being Haitian-American and raised around strong women, I was taught that how you show up matters. Haitians take a lot of pride in how we dress — elegance and effortlessness go hand in hand. My culture, my upbringing, and my journey as a mother all play a big role in how I approach design. V.BELLAN reflects that mix of heritage, strength, and subtle beauty.

Who is the V.BELLAN wearer? What does she embody?
V.BELLAN is for everyone — it’s gender-neutral and made for people who want something that feels intentional but easy. Whether it’s a small stud or a bold chain, our pieces are meant to fit into your everyday life while still making a statement. The V.BELLAN customer values quality, meaning, and style without trying too hard.

3. MISHO

MISHO is an award-winning design studio led by visionary Suhani Parekh who crafts sculptural and architectural jewelry beloved by icons like Zendaya.

What’s your unique take on jewelry design and what inspires you?

Suhani Parekh: My inspiration comes from all around me, but especially the women in my life, even down to what my daughter likes. Inspiration comes from the most interesting places when you allow it to! I would say my unique take on jewelry design comes down to that what jewelry can be is limitless. It’s creating pieces to adorn the body and I think that allows me to keep my mind open.

How does your background inform your designs?

I pull design inspiration from architecture and art. I studied sculpture at Goldsmiths in London, which really allowed me to have a more in depth understanding of the idea of shape and form, which I think really plays into my jewelry design.

Who is the Misho wearer? What does she embody?

The MISHO wearer is chic, playful, and bold. The best part about our collections is that there is a piece for everyone, so I like to think that everyone can be a MISHO wearer. Our customers and the women in my life play muse for me, and the pieces are a reflection of that. 

4. NOTTE

Blending the beauty of La Dolce Vita and New York boldness, jewelry designer Jessica Tse uses different precious metals and eccentric mixes of peals and seashells to craft shiny and stunning designs.

What’s your unique take on jewelry design and what inspires you?

Jessica Tse: I truly believe that jewelry is a reflection of who we are—an extension of our stories and emotions. Each piece should evoke joy or a special feeling when it’s worn. I’m endlessly inspired by treasured memories and the gentle pull of nostalgia, hoping to capture those moments in pieces you can hold onto season after season.

How does your background inform your designs?

Growing up and having spent my early years in Hong Kong exposed me to a really vibrant mix of cultures, my fascination for manga, kawaii stationery, and tiny trinkets started at a very early age. I think that early love for playful, whimsical details has stayed with me ever since. Later, my time in Italy introduced me to a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and timeless romance, the coming-together of the two worlds continues to shape my design aesthetic. The juxtaposition of high and low, playful yet romantic, creating fun details with elevated materials becomes part of our brand signature.

Who is the Notte wearer? What does she embody?

The NOTTE wearer is someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously — they’re expressive, playful, and see jewelry as an extension of themselves. They treasure the charm of nostalgia and believe in the quiet magic of cherished moments.