In a world dominated by sneakers and gray hoodies, I seek a different kind of expression: one of strength, style, and a story that goes beyond mere fashion. With my brand, Donna Dorée , I pay tribute to the iconic woman. Not just a jewelry line, but a statement.
From the understated elegance of Coco Chanel to the avant-garde statements of Elsa Schiaparelli, fashion history is rich with iconic women who dared to embrace their strength and style. They inspire me, and I translate their vision into contemporary jewelry that is both refined and bold.
A prime example is the Donna brooch/pendant, a subtle nod to classic Parisian style combined with a modern, powerful look. It's a tribute to women who, with their charisma and attitude, make the world a little more beautiful. Not by blending in, but by expressing themselves.
My inspiration extends beyond fashion; I draw from art movements, dance, theater, and architecture, an inexhaustible source of ideas that gives my designs their unique character.
"For me, fashion is not a fleeting trend, but an art form in itself, an expression that touches deeper layers of creativity and imagination."
Sometimes I wear my large earrings with a pearl necklace, a brooch, and a statement ring. Not because I have to, but because it feels right. And that's exactly what fashion is all about: the feeling you want to convey.
Slow fashion, but really
I don't see the growing popularity of slow fashion as a trend, but as a necessity. Jewelry shouldn't be ephemeral. It's not disposable, but heirlooms in the making. That's why my designs are consciously handcrafted: high-quality materials, attention to detail, and small editions to avoid mass production.
"I think it's really great when a customer hesitates for a year and then decides: this piece suits me."
It's precisely that conscious choice that makes jewelry so much more meaningful. This philosophy — conscious choice, reappraisal, and creation with respect — also brings challenges to the jewelry industry.
Manufacturers still think in terms of large quantities. My dream is to make small-scale production more accessible, so entrepreneurs like me can offer a more sustainable alternative without paying top dollar. Why shouldn't a piece of jewelry be made to order, just like slow fashion does with clothing?
My sustainable approach extends beyond the materials. I'm increasingly working with vintage jewelry and exploring ways to integrate recycled silver into my collections. We don't always have to create something new; beauty already exists. You just have to rediscover it.
That realization is also deeply rooted in my concepts and designs. My first piece, the Gaia earring, is an ode to Mother Earth. Now that's an iconic lady!
Gaia symbolizes nurturing and protecting what already exists. I see this as a guiding principle in my work: use what exists, create with respect, and make something that will last for generations. The earring, with its organic shapes and layered earthy details, reflects this philosophy, a reminder of nature and our heritage.
When I read Susan Smit's book "The Wisdom of the Witch ," I was struck by a passage in which the author explains that witches give themselves names, and that her witch's name is Gaia. Reading that gave me goosebumps. It felt like confirmation that my designs touch a deeper level. It's not just about jewelry; it's about identity, strength, and connection with who you are.
The woman behind Donna: between alter ego and entrepreneurial spirit
I'm Donna. Or rather, my clients are increasingly calling me that. It started as a joke, but "Donna" has now become my alter ego. Donna is the woman who dares to take the stage, who consciously chooses her style, and knows what she wants to convey. Sometimes I have to remind myself that I'm her, because I'm also "just" Wietske.
My entrepreneurial journey, however, turned out to be more than just glitz and glamour. I never expected the creative process to be only a small part of my work. The rest goes to administration, marketing, finding the right producers, and keeping my webshop running. Yet, I'm determined to continue expanding my brand. 
My dream?
That Donna Dorée is not just a jewelry brand, but a source of inspiration where women rediscover their own power. A place where craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and artistry converge. This creates beauty that isn't just worn, but that lives—through creation, expression, and a story that lasts for generations.
And that requires an entrepreneurial mindset. I started with the idea that I would primarily design. But entrepreneurship also means closing deals, defining strategy, and thinking about how to tell your story. Fashion is emotional, and that applies just as much to running a business.
A style statement that lasts
What does the future hold? I think we'll be even more conscious about fashion and jewelry in 2030. I hope manufacturers will become more involved in slow fashion and that smaller editions will become more accessible. But most of all, I hope women will continue to choose pieces that truly mean something to them and will pass them on to the next generation.
Because style is not a fleeting trend, it is a choice.
And Donna Dorée is more than happy to help you with that choice.
Take a look at our entire collection here .