While still a university student, Zeynep Nazlı Yıldırım decided to follow her dreams. When she couldn’t find jewelry that matched her own style, she took matters into her own hands. Two years ago, she founded Minerva Jesign, a bohemian-inspired jewelry brand that has since grown into an inspiring success story with a loyal following on social media.
 |
| Photos: @minervajesign |
Struggling to find jewelry that reflected her unique style, young entrepreneur Yıldırım saw this not as a setback but as an opportunity. In 2023, while continuing her university studies, she launched Minerva Jesign, a brand that stands out with its simple yet characterful bohemian designs. Appealing both to herself and to other women who share her aesthetic sensibilities, the brand quickly built a dedicated community online. We spoke with Yıldırım about her entrepreneurial journey, what bohemian style means to her, the expressive power of jewelry, and her dreams for the future.
“I saw an opportunity, not a lack”
How did you decide to start your own jewelry brand as a young woman entrepreneur? What inspired this journey?
Zeynep Nazlı Yıldırım says the journey began with a long-held dream:
“I had dreamed of creating my own brand for a while, but I wasn’t sure which direction to take. Over time, I realized I had a hard time finding pieces that truly matched my style. That felt less like a problem and more like a potential opportunity. One day, I asked myself, ‘Why not design my own jewelry?’ That moment was the start of everything. I ended up not only fulfilling a personal need but also creating a space that could reach others who felt the same.”
“Bohemian style is a way of life for me”
Why bohemian style? How does your personal style connect to your brand’s aesthetic?
“Bohemian style isn’t just a trend for me, it’s a lifestyle. It’s free-spirited, relaxed, yet deeply rooted in strength. I’ve always been drawn to designs that are simple but layered with meaning. My personal style has long reflected boho elements, so it naturally found its way into my brand. In a way, my brand is just an aesthetic extension of who I am.”
“Every piece should have a personality”
What do you pay attention to when curating your collections? What makes a piece right for your brand?
“The originality of a design and how well it embodies my brand’s spirit are top priorities. I also consider seasonal transitions. In summer, I lean toward lighter, more colorful and stone-accented pieces; in winter, I prefer more understated but powerful designs. But above all, a piece should feel like it has a personality. When someone looks at it, they should sense that it’s more than an accessory — it’s a mood, a reflection of something deeper.”
“Women supporting women makes us stronger”
What are your thoughts on being a woman entrepreneur in the fashion and jewelry industry? What are the challenges and the advantages?
“Women have become powerful forces in creative fields like fashion and jewelry. These industries are deeply emotional, detail-oriented, and aesthetically driven, all of which align with women’s natural strengths. But of course, there are challenges. Building a brand from scratch as a woman can be tough; funding, supply chains, and marketing can be difficult to navigate. But the solidarity among women and the opportunities offered by social media help balance those difficulties. The more visible we are, the more we inspire others. Being part of that chain is truly meaningful.”
“Jewelry is a silent language”
Do you think jewelry is just an accessory or something more meaningful?
“To me, jewelry is a form of expression, it reflects your mood, your style, even your worldview. Sometimes words aren’t enough, but a necklace or ring can say so much about who you are. If I’m wearing a lot of jewelry one day, it usually means I feel confident and energetic. On quieter days, I wear less. You can even sense a person’s personality by the jewelry they choose; whether they’re more boho, classic, or minimalist. That’s why I see jewelry as a silent, yet impactful form of communication.”
“Visibility and authenticity matter on social media”
What was the biggest lesson you learned while growing your brand on social media?
“I learned that consistency is key. You have to keep sharing, stay visible, and engage with your audience. People forget quickly, just like algorithms do. While ads are useful, the real magic is in being authentic. Your followers shouldn’t just care about your products — they should care about your story too.”
“My dream is to take Minerva worldwide”
Where do you want to take your brand in the future? Any upcoming goals or dreams?
“My dream is to see Minerva Jesign standing alongside well-known and loved brands. Seeing celebrities wear my designs would mean so much — it would show me that my work is being seen and appreciated. But above all, I want to go international. The thought of women from different cultures wearing my jewelry really excites me. One day, seeing my brand in a shop window would be the most beautiful thank-you to my younger self who dared to take that first step.”
Yorumlar
Yorum Gönder