IZABO
Empowering Style with Isabeau Olislagers
If you’re hooked on the “Get ready with me” trends on social media, here’s a tip: for an outfit that shines, begin with the bling.
Isabeau Olislagers is the founder and designer of IZABO, an Antwerp-based jewelry brand that’s been turning heads since she launched it a few years ago.
Isabeau Olislagers is the founder and designer of IZABO, an Antwerp-based jewelry brand that’s been turning heads since she launched it a few years ago.
“When I get dressed for the day, I pick out my jewelry first. Clothes are second,” she says. “I love anything that speaks without having to say a single word. That’s what jewelry means to me. It communicates elegance and presence.”
Destined to Stand Out
Meeting the charismatic young designer, it’s clear that Isabeau understands appearances.
She loves to change looks and plays with her style. From interviewing her in an edgy outfit and jet-black hair, to a powerful red colored hairdo a couple of weeks later, as we meet for the studio shoot.
Everything she touches finds a unique form of expression. Here’s an example: on a table near the studio entrance is crisp white linen with a selection of crackers, walnuts, berries, and grapes, separated into perfect little groups. Even a welcome gesture has the potential to be designed.
While she seems shy at first, her face shines when she talks about her work
Colorful gemstones. Sculpted, organic shapes. Creative details that ignite conversation.
Colorful gemstones. Sculpted, organic shapes. Creative details that ignite conversation.
When you see an IZABO piece, you’ll understand why it attracts attention. Each piece is handcrafted in her atelier.
“Designing is about going with the flow,” Isabeau says. “I dive into the material. I start by creating a wax mold and let the story take shape.”
The Hairpin
As The TwentyFour Six approached Isabeau for this feature and collaboration, she didn't hesitate. An enthusiastic yes is also an embodiment of her way of life. The idea instantly materialized when we sat down for the first time together. We sketched something that seamlessly fits into the IZABO world but hasn't yet been featured in her collections. The TwentyFour Six x IZABO item is a sculpted piece of hair jewelry that lets your style shine from the top down.
Isabeau invited The TwentyFour Six for a tour of her gorgeous atelier. We talked about discovering her passion and the making of IZABO.
Isabeau invited The TwentyFour Six for a tour of her gorgeous atelier. We talked about discovering her passion and the making of IZABO.
Transforming Vision Into a Dream
Her story began in her late teens with trips to vintage markets. She found old pieces and bought them just to break them apart and rebuild them into new creations with a vision all her own.
A close friend convinced her to join a summer course in London at Central Saint Martins. A prep year in Florence soon followed, and then she was admitted to the prestigious School of Jewellery at Birmingham City University.
Like so many, the pandemic paused her studies, but she didn’t let the experience cancel her dreams. She found mentors in Antwerp’s famous diamond district and her independent streak served her well.
“I found people that helped, but no one ever told me what to do. The key is not to be afraid. Go ask a lot of questions. Just try it out. It’s okay to lock yourself away and create.”
“I found people that helped, but no one ever told me what to do. The key is not to be afraid. Go ask a lot of questions. Just try it out. It’s okay to lock yourself away and create.”
Our Q&A with Isabeau:
Our Q&A with Isabeau:
She started with custom pieces and now she’s creating collections for shops and taking orders far and wide. She’s added staff to help manage the ins and outs of building a brand with tons of potential.
What does creativity mean to you?
What does creativity mean to you?
With creativity, there is no right way. Whatever works for you is what will keep you alive and creating. With IZABO, I found my path. Creating jewelry gets me past the anxiety and self-esteem questions. I feel something inside that opens; a tingly feeling that’s very small. I give it attention and presence. I used to think that creativity was connected to drawing and being perfect. A teacher once told me that there are two types of creative people. With jewelry… they fly into the material, or they draw for months before producing a single ring. I learned now that both are fine. Your way is your right way.
Whatever works for you, is what will keep you alive and creating for the longest time.
Whatever works for you, is what will keep you alive and creating for the longest time.
What’s your favorite accessory?
What’s your favorite accessory?
Earrings, because they’re like makeup for your face. It’s a way to see yourself differently. Jewelry can be serious, but it should also be whimsical. It can be odd, weird, beautiful, or whatever you want it to be. I wear rings because they make my hands look prettier. It gives an extra aura. Whatever you wear, let it show that you’re at ease with yourself. Jewelry can empower you and make you feel strong. It’s a subtle way to enhance your personality. Stand out. I’d feel naked without it.
Who is the ideal IZABO woman?
Who is the ideal IZABO woman?
She’s a woman who’s never afraid to speak her mind in any circumstance. She’s confident, has her own opinions, and isn't afraid. It’s important to be fluid in life. Don’t fixate on one identity. If you feel you want to be a different person today, go for it. Never adhere to expectations.
Can you tell us more about the design of our hairpin?
Custom pieces are always designed based on the person I talk to and the story that develops. With The TwentyFour Six, we wanted to do something that I’ve never done before and I’m very excited about the result. Spontaneously, we thought that hair accessories would be fun. It’s something we don't see often enough, and it has always been on my mind conceptually. The inspiration comes from the elegance of Japanese culture. Kind of a celebration of Japan. It can be worn casually—like you put your hair in a bubble and just pin it. Or you can wear it formally, with this cascade of movement and stones flowing down your neck. From the front, it looks like you're wearing a floating earring. It’s designed in a clean shade to be worn with any hair color. A very strong, elegant, powerful object. We really see it our female weapon.
The IZABO - The TwentyFour Six hairpin is sleek and elegant, almost like your female weapon. It empowers you however you style it.
The IZABO - The TwentyFour Six hairpin is sleek and elegant, almost like your female weapon. It empowers you however you style it.
How is your work evolving?
How is your work evolving?
The upcoming collection is different. You could say it’s more adult and sophisticated. It’s still me, of course, and it feels playful and timeless. For women of all ages. I’m really into the idea of perfect imperfection.
The designs have a modern look mixed with something imperfect. I fell in love with this rough citrine stone and the aspects of combining a raw one with a more perfect, cut shape. One is clean, and the other one is raw. This collection is about seeking balance.
Find IZABO's new collection here
The TwentyFour Six is about creativity, meeting inspiring people, and staying connected. But we also love to know about your Seventh. What is your perfect 7th day—or day off?
That depends on what happens on Saturday night! Honestly, working hard and running a business is a race against time. It’s okay to be unapologetically lazy. Do nothing on your day off—get all the rest you need—if that’s what works. For my perfect 7th, I would organize a big meal and invite a lot of people. I love to decorate with lace tablecloths and put ribbons everywhere. I would cook all day and fill the table with different sharing plates full of beautiful food. Apero style. All my friends and family would be invited over for a cute supper. That’s my perfect day. Everyone should wear IZABO, of course.
