PIECES WITH POWER: DANIELA UPMARK ON ACCESSORIES
Jewelry, like shoes, is never just an accessory—it’s a statement.
Daniela Uppmark, founder of the beloved jewelry brand Blue Billie, knows this better than most. Since launching her label in 2015, she’s been creating pieces that don’t just complete a look, but define it. Just like a great pair of shoes can change the way you walk into a room, Blue Billie jewelry is about owning your energy and expressing your story.
We invited Daniela for a coffee (naturally, in Blankens shoes) to talk accessories, confidence, and her best jewelry hacks.
Daniela, tell us about the story behind Blue Billie?
I started Blue Billie because I wanted to create jewelry that went beyond being just a small detail in an outfit. Around 10 years ago, jewelry was often seen as something you added last—but I wanted to flip that. I saw an opportunity to design pieces that define a look, not just complete it. Something bold yet minimal, modern yet timeless—jewelry that helps people express their own personal style in a deeper way.
What made you take the leap and start your jewelry brand?
Taking the leap has never felt like a big thing for me—I’m a natural risk-taker. I love the energy of the early phase, the unknown, and the excitement of building something from scratch without knowing exactly where it will lead. That’s where I thrive.
"The Jennie is the perfect heel in my eyes—I’ll be wearing them to every summer party, but they’re just as perfect for a dressed-up after-work. I love shoes that work across occasions."
What’s your take on choosing the right metal?
Gold generally suits warmer undertones, while silver tends to flatter cooler ones. Then you have those with a more neutral tone—they can wear both beautifully. Choosing the right metal close to your face can actually make a big difference. It can bring out the glow in your skin, make your eyes shine, and really make your features pop.
I always say that earrings are like makeup—they frame the face and give an instant glow-up. The right metal in a pair of earrings or a short necklace can elevate your entire look.
How do you know if you’re more of a gold or silver person?
Try on both and see what lights you up. Silver usually suits cooler undertones, while gold tends to flatter warmer ones. It’s all about what makes you feel your best.
"The Monika Ranch is the perfect shoe when you want to look relaxed yet chic. It strikes that ideal balance between laid-back and styled, and I love that you can just slip them on and still feel effortlessly put together."
What are your thoughts on mixing silver and gold?
I love mixing metals—but a good rule of thumb is to wear the metal that suits you best closest to your face, like earrings and shorter necklaces. That way, your natural tone is complemented in the most flattering way. Then you can mix it up more freely on your arms and fingers.
What role do accessories like shoes and jewelry play in your outfits?
Accessories are everything. They’re the finishing touch that makes an outfit feel complete and personal. Jewelry and shoes especially have the power to transform how you feel—they can take a simple white tee and jeans and make it you. For me, shoes and jewelry are how I express my mood without saying a word.
How do you want people to feel when they wear Blue Billie?
I want them to feel confident and true to themselves. Blue Billie is about more than jewelry—it’s about owning your style, your energy, and your story. If someone puts on a piece and it makes them feel empowered, like the best version of themselves, then I’ve done my job.
