Across industries, women are reshaping what it means to lead—with empathy, innovation, and unwavering authenticity. They are breaking barriers and building legacies rooted in purpose. One such exemplary woman is Madeleine Jarl, a former springboard diving champion, international model, a jewelry brand born from personal passion and a desire to empower.
Madeleine’s journey from the serene landscapes of Sweden to the bustling streets of France and Japan has been anything but ordinary. Growing up in Sweden instilled in her a deep sense of independence and curiosity, while living in Paris honed her creative eye and refined aesthetic. Her time in Japan taught her the power of subtlety and tradition, which now deeply influences her designs. Madeleine’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and elegance—qualities which now deeply influence her designs. With Zaza&Lili, Madeleine is not just creating accessories; she is crafting stories, honoring individuality, and redefining modern luxury.
An Unconventional Path
Madeleine began her career as a champion springboard diver—a discipline that instilled in her fearlessness and focus. Transitioning to a successful modeling career, she developed a keen sense of aesthetics and visual storytelling. Jewelry design came to her as a natural evolution—a way to translate her emotions into tangible creations. “I wanted to build something that represented my values of authenticity, elegance, and connection,” she says. Naming the brand Zaza&Lili after her daughters infused it with personal meaning from the outset and aligned with her heart.
The Birth of Zaza&Lili
The defining moment came during her tenure in the travel retail sector. Though she was excelling professionally, Madeleine felt a disconnect—she was helping others sell their dreams while suppressing her own. “I wanted to create something that was truly mine—a brand that could connect deeply with people, not just through a product, but through a story.” That inner spark led to the birth of Zaza&Lili, a brand designed not just to adorn women but to empower and reflect their individuality.
Celebrating the Inner Spirit
At the heart of Zaza&Lili is the belief that jewelry should enhance, not overshadow, a woman’s essence. She designs pieces that are minimal yet full of character, elegant but not overpowering. Each piece is made to complement the unique spirit of the woman who wears it, allowing her to feel more confident and connected to herself.
Timeless Elegance
Every aspect of Madeleine’s journey has influenced her aesthetic. Her designs reflect simplicity and grace. For Madeleine, a timeless piece is one that is not bound by fashion but rooted in emotional meaning—something that transcends trends and becomes part of the wearer’s personal story.
Overcoming Hurdles
The entrepreneurial journey hasn’t been without its challenges for Madeleine. The biggest challenge has been navigating the unpredictable nature of the fashion industry and the economy. The pandemic posed serious threats to her retail channels, particularly in travel retail. But Madeleine responded with agility, developing new strategies, and finding creative ways to stay connected with her customers.
“The real joy comes from knowing that my brand is not just about selling jewelry, but about connecting with people on a deeper level.”
Redefining Luxury
In today’s world, Madeleine believes luxury is defined by authenticity, quality, and emotional connection. It’s about investing in something meaningful and lasting. Zaza&Lili prioritizes ethical practices, craftsmanship, and designs that have an emotional connection.
Driven by Values
Despite ever-evolving trends, Madeleine remains grounded in her brand’s core values. “I believe that trends are fleeting, but authenticity is timeless. Zaza&Lili evolves by maintaining a focus on quality, personal connection, and timeless elegance. We don’t chase trends; we let our designs naturally grow in response to what feels right for the brand and our customers,” shares Madeleine.
Leading by Example
Madeleine’s leadership style is rooted in trust, collaboration, and kindness. She believes in empowering her team to take ownership of their work and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. She leads by example and adapts to change with grace. Integrity guides every decision she makes, ensuring the brand’s long-term vision always remains in focus.
Road Ahead
The future for Zaza&Lili looks bright. Madeleine envisions expanding into new international markets and introducing lifestyle products that align with the brand’s ethos. Sustainability and meaningful partnerships are at the forefront of her growth strategy.
Expanding the Vision: Introducing Män
After the success of Zaza&Lili, Madeleine’s passion for thoughtful design and emotional connection found a new dimension. Recognizing a growing demand for sophisticated, minimalist jewelry for men, she expanded the brand with a new line: Män.
Born from the same values that made Zaza&Lili a beloved name in women’s jewelry, Män is a bold yet refined venture that reimagines men’s accessories through the lens of sophistication and simplicity.
A Legacy of Grace and Grit
As she reflects on her journey, Madeleine shares the most valuable lesson she’s learned. “Success is not about external validation, but about staying true to who you are and finding balance in your life. There will always be obstacles, but it’s how you respond to them—learning, adapting, and growing—that defines you. Trusting my inner voice and being authentic has been my greatest strength, both as a leader and as a creator.”
