Heirloom Hats X Séola Atelier - An intimate interview

The Soul of SÉOLA Atelier: A Conversation with the Designer Behind the Timeless Jewelry

At the heart of every piece at SÉOLA Atelier lies a deep connection to craftsmanship, quality, and meaningful design. We sat down with Cathrine Arhenkiel, the founder of SÉOLA Atelier, a Danish-born, Montreal-based jewelry designer, to learn more about the story behind her brand, her transition from menswear to jewelry, and the sustainable practices that guide her creative process.

 

The Meaning Behind "SÉOLA Atelier"

Could you share the story behind the name "SÉOLA Atelier" and its significance to your brand? 

SÉOLA means “soul” in Old Saxon, the root of Germanic and Scandinavian languages. It represents what I needed to create after 14 years in the fast fashion industry as a menswear designer—something with true depth, something that takes time. And something with a soul. I wanted to be fully present in the process, connected to each piece from start to finish. More than that, I wanted to create jewellery that wasn’t driven by trends but had a soul—something people could treasure and pass down through generations, carrying meaning and lasting significance.

 

From Menswear to Jewelry: A Creative Rebirth

Your background is in fashion design. What led you to transition from menswear to jewelry?

If I’m honest, I never imagined becoming a jeweller. I’ve always had a love for menswear—and still do—and I used to get so excited by the rhythm of each season and the arrival of new trends. But a serious burnout forced me to step back and really rethink my path. The stress from the fashion industry had completely drained my love for design, and I honestly thought I was done with it all. I decided to take a jewellery course just to find some calm, and unexpectedly, I fell in love with working with my hands—especially sculpting and designing in lost wax, which is now the heart of SEOLA Atelier. At the same time, I realized I’d always been drawn to metal and the possibilities it offers. I’ve always loved accessories, but could never find the kind of jewellery I really wanted to wear—everything felt too delicate, and rings never seemed to fit my hands right. That’s when I knew I wanted to create something different—pieces with weight, presence, and that timeless feel.

 

Jewelry and Millinery: A Natural Connection

How do you see the relationship between jewelry and millinery?

I think jewellery and millinery really go hand in hand. Both are about adding something special to your look, whether it's through the elegance of a well-crafted piece of jewellery or the personality a hat can bring. They’re both about elevating an outfit and making it feel complete. Jewelry adds those little details that can make a huge difference, while hats can really bring a sense of character. When you put them together, they just complement each other perfectly—creating something unique, whether it’s a bold statement or a more timeless, subtle vibe.

Music: The Heartbeat of SÉOLA Atelier

Music seems to play a role in your creative process, as evidenced by the SÉOLA Atelier Soundtrack. How does music influence your designs, and can you tell us more about this playlist?

Music has always been a constant in my life. It carries emotions and moods that resonate deeply with my creative process. For me, it’s not just about making jewellery—it’s about creating a world. I want the wearer to not only experience the pieces but also step into my universe, where music sets the tone and brings everything to life. The playlists I share often include songs I listened to while creating each piece. I love the idea that music can form a bridge between me and the wearer, offering a deeper connection to the jewellery they carry with them. It becomes more than just an object—it holds a story, a mood, and a feeling. (You can discover Seola's playlist here!)

 

Sustainability and Ethical Practices at SÉOLA Atelier

Sustainability and ethical practices are increasingly important in fashion. How do you incorporate these values into your work at SÉOLA Atelier?

For me, it’s essential to take my time and avoid rushing through the process. On my website, most of my pieces are made to order, and I carefully select the retailers I collaborate with. This approach allows me to create jewelry with purpose, ensuring no resources are wasted and that each piece receives the attention it deserves.

As a result, at the selected retailers, you’ll find only one piece per size—ensuring that each item is made with the same care and dedication, as though it were created just for you. I also prioritize working with local artisans for casting, soldering, and sourcing my equipment, keeping the entire production process close to home. By doing so, every piece is crafted in a sustainable, hands-on manner.

Having come from a background in the fashion industry, where most production was based in China, I now have the privilege of working with artisans who possess extensive knowledge. Having them nearby not only supports a more sustainable approach, but it also fosters a deeper connection with the people involved in production. Their expertise is invaluable, especially when I have questions along the way. You could say that my way of working, and the essence of SEOLA Atelier, is a response to the fashion industry I used to be a part of.

The Influence of Denmark and Canada on her designs

As a Danish designer based in Montreal, how do the cultural influences of Denmark and Canada manifest in your jewelry designs?

As a Danish designer based in Montreal, I find that both Denmark and Canada influence my work in different but complementary ways.

Growing up in Denmark, I was immersed in the Scandinavian tradition of simplicity and minimalism. Danish design is all about clean lines, functional beauty, and understated elegance, which is something I try to incorporate into my jewellery. I’m drawn to simple shapes that are aesthetically pleasing yet timeless, which aligns with my belief in creating pieces that can be passed down through generations.

Living in Montreal, I’m inspired by the stunning natural surroundings—Canada’s diverse landscapes, from forests to mountains to lakes, are so different from the flat terrain of Denmark. This beauty has influenced my designs, adding new depth to my work. I often incorporate organic shapes and textures, drawing from the Canadian landscape, while still staying true to the minimalist values I hold from Denmark. It’s a blend of both worlds—timeless simplicity rooted in Scandinavian tradition, with the natural, dynamic elements of Canada.

A Shared Passion: The Collaboration with Heirloom Hats

What excites you most about this collaboration with Heirloom Hats?

What excites me most about this collaboration is the chance to work with Sam, who, like me, shares a deep passion for craftsmanship and quality. It’s truly a dream come true.

This collaboration was especially exciting because it gave me the opportunity to create something new, like brooches—an area I’ve never explored before with SÉOLA Atelier. I’ve learned so much throughout this process, and I’m thrilled to see how our two worlds have come together.

I love that we’ve created elegant, simple pieces that can be added to a hat, scarf, or favorite sweater, making them versatile and timeless. The fact that our designs can resonate with a wide range of people is something I’m really proud of.Looking Ahead: A Journey of Meaning and Craftsmanship

                                                                                                                     

 

For the designer of SÉOLA Atelier, the journey from menswear to jewelry has been one of rediscovery—a chance to create pieces that have depth, soul, and significance. Whether through her sustainable practices, the integration of music into her design process, or the blending of cultural influences, SÉOLA Atelier is a brand that speaks to those who value true craftsmanship and timeless beauty. You can discover our collaboration pieces here.