Self-Expression, Self-Discovery, & the Jewelry that Changes with You: The Story Behind Transformer Jewelry

In conversation with Anastasia, the founder behind Transformer Jewelry, on her journey from stylist to designer, and expressing oneself through jewelry

Ten years ago, Anastasia noticed something while studying to become a stylist. Although she was learning everything about fashion and how to create a look best suited to someone's appearance and lifestyle, there was a substantial gap in her knowledge: jewelry styling. "In most wardrobe styling courses, very little attention is paid to choosing jewelry that complements a person's appearance, yet it's equally important," says Anastasia. That gap sparked a journey, from stylist to jewelry designer, which saw Anastasia founding her own brand, Transformer Jewelry.

The brand's name has a double meaning, as Anastasia's creates multifunctional designs, such as necklaces that can be used as body chains or pendants that can be worn as earrings, charms, or added to necklaces. At the same time, these designs can also change depending on the wearer's mood or circumstances. "My jewelry transforms the way a woman feels about herself or accompanies her in that process," explains Anastasia. "As we search for ourselves, we become more honest, sincere, and free. We start allowing ourselves to be seen, and jewelry becomes one of the ways to express that." But how does a designer create pieces that enable this kind of self-expression?

Where technical mindset meets creative spark

For Anastasia, the answer lies in her unconventional background. Her technical education in IT gave her the structural thinking needed to create what she calls "construction sets for grown-up girls," modular pieces that allow wearers to express their creativity. Combined with her keen eye for fashion and trends, Anastasia has cultivated a deeper understanding of how jewelry should look, function, move, and adapt to a woman's changing needs throughout her day and life. But where does the inspiration for such designs come from?

From catwalk inspiration to personal connection

Inspired by many external sources, most of Anastasia's pieces are influenced by fashion shows. Starting with a sketch, she then tests different materials before creating prototypes. Not every design is a winner; for each piece in her collection, two or three designs are rejected along the way. Anastasia shares prototypes on her blog for feedback, then lets her clients ultimately "vote" with their purchases on what stays. A clear-cut trial-and-error process helps keep Anastasia connected to her work. "Each piece has a part of my soul and story." Yet she leaves room for wearers to infuse their own meaning: her jewelry carries qualities that invite personal significance, but the rest belongs to whoever chooses it.

Selecting the right materials to bring designs to life

Anastasia's design philosophy naturally extends to her material choices. Working exclusively with natural gemstones, cultured pearls, and metals resistant to oxidation, she entirely rejects materials like plastic and cheaper imitations. "Natural materials can be repurposed into modern designs and continue to live as family heirlooms, passed down through generations," she explains. Designing with longevity in mind, Anastasia believes that small, independent artists who offer high-quality, handmade jewelry designs are paving the way forward in the jewelry sector. While much of today's mass-market jewelry is of lower quality and not durable, "independent artisans can use durable materials comparable to fine jewelry while keeping up with modern design trends," she points out. "Small brands can adapt their processes much faster to new ideas."

Working with the right partners

As independent creators continue to redefine our concept of jewelry, consumers around the world are redefining what they value, too. In a world of fast fashion and endless distractions, people are increasingly seeking meaning in what they consume. For upcoming jewelry brands like Transformer Jewelry, this is exactly why partnering with platforms like La Ol' Markt is key, as they not only showcase their products, but also the creators behind them: their stories, values, and vision. For Anastasia, this alignment of values promises meaningful connections with those who will become not just clients, but friends of her brand.

Looking ahead to the future, Anastasia hopes that those who discover Transformer Jewelry on La Ol’ Markt will feel these pieces were made especially for them—that this is what they've been looking for all along, and now they've finally found it.