Being able to carve a niche in the competitive world of luxury jewellery is not an easy task. Yet there are brands that have discovered their unique formula, which has helped them not just stand out but be ahead of the pack. These brands tell a story, they weave a narrative, and they capture an essence. Kismet by Milka is one such brand.
The exquisite jewellery house is the creation of Turkish designer Milka Karaağaçlı, who wanted to create jewellery that goes beyond the realm of accessories. Having a background in art and a passion for jewellery, she envisioned crafting talismans, symbols that resonate with one’s own story. That is where the brand name, Kismet, took shape, as the word signifies fate or destiny.
The brand, which was founded in 2009, has achieved remarkable success not just in Turkey but in the international arena. Kismet by Milka blends together timeless artistry with contemporary design, which is something that further sets the brand apart.
The brand, which completed 15 years of operations, recently opened its flagship boutique in London, bringing the total number of outlets to 17 globally. The Luxury Bulletin caught up with the powerhouse that is Milka Karaağaçlı to learn more about the brand, its journey over the last 15 years, merging art with luxury, and the way forward.
What inspired you to start Kismet by Milka?
It all started with the feeling that I had so much more to say to the world. I wanted to create something meaningful—something that could empower people, make them feel strong, and tell their story without saying a word. Jewellery felt like the most intimate and personal way to do that. I wanted to design pieces that weren’t just beautiful, but carried intention and soul.
Leaving the corporate world may not have been easy. Looking back, how does it feel to have made such a bold decision?
It was one of the scariest and most liberating decisions I’ve ever made. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Taking that leap into the unknown led me to a path that’s far more aligned with who I am—and allowed me to build something I truly believe in.
Did you do a course or get any kind of training in jewellery design? Or was it purely passion-driven?
I didn’t come from a traditional jewellery background. It started with passion, but I had so much to learn. I watched the craftsmen closely, learned what works and what doesn’t, and spent a lot of time understanding the craft. It’s really about bringing emotion and technique together—and that balance is something I’m still learning every day.
How has the brand evolved since its inception?
Kismet by Milka has grown alongside me. It started as a small, intimate brand and has become an international name while staying true to its essence. Over the years, the designs have become bolder, more fearless, and more refined—just like the women who wear them.
Please share your creative process with us.
It usually starts with a feeling or a small idea. Sometimes something clicks, and we sit down as a team to talk it through. We sketch, we try things out, we go back and forth. Nothing too magical—just a lot of thinking, experimenting, and honest conversations. That’s how the design takes shape, step by step.
Describe Kismet by Milka in three words.
Empowering. Fearless. Challenger.
Do you have a muse?
I wouldn’t say it’s one person. My muse is more of a spirit or energy I find around me—especially in Istanbul. The city, the people, the contrasts… they’re endlessly inspiring. I’m really drawn to young people—their raw emotions, their style, the way they express themselves. That honesty and individuality is what fuels my creativity.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Inspiration is everywhere—travel, art, strong women, rituals, nature, even a single word or color. I’ve always been drawn to contrasts and dualities—strength and softness, modern and timeless—and I try to capture that balance in each design.
Piercings are part of the brand’s DNA. What prompted you to offer that as part of the brand service?
Piercings are such a powerful form of self-expression, and we wanted to elevate the experience to match the intention behind our designs. That’s why every Kismet by Milka store features a dedicated piercing corner, where the service is offered by APP-certified piercers. It’s not just about adding a new piercing—it’s about understanding the ear anatomy, offering guidance on placements that suit each individual, and creating a curated piercing experience from start to finish. It’s a ritual, a memory, and a bold personal statement all at once.
Is there a unique piece of jewellery that you treasure?
Yes—there’s a necklace I designed in the early days that still means so much to me. It’s called No. 43, named after the house number of the home I grew up in on Büyükada. That place holds some of my most cherished childhood memories—it’s where I first started dreaming, creating, and imagining this world I wanted to build. Wearing it now is like carrying a piece of my past with me, a reminder of where it all began and the energy that still fuels everything I do.
The brand recently celebrated its 15th anniversary. Please tell us about the special collection that was launched to celebrate the anniversary.
Fifteen marks a very personal moment for me. It’s been 15 years full of growth, challenges, and so many emotions. When I thought about how to reflect all of that, I kept coming back to the flame of a birthday candle. It felt simple, but powerful. That small flame holds everything—hope, passion, memories, and the energy to keep going. This collection is a way for me to say thank you to that journey, and to the fire inside that’s still glowing, quietly and steadily.
Can you share what your plans are for the brand going forward?
There’s so much to be excited about. One of our biggest dreams was to expand to London, and now, our flagship store is officially open. It’s a major step in our global journey. From here, we’re setting our sights on opening stores in other fashion-forward cities around the world. The goal is to bring the full Kismet by Milka experience to more people, spaces where they can feel inspired, empowered, and seen. It’s always been about more than jewellery; it’s about creating meaningful moments of self-expression, wherever in the world you are.