While most tourists come back from a month in Europe with a souvenir or two, Syracuse University senior Belle Kornberg returned from her journey abroad with something a bit more unique: the idea for The Dirty Chic, her recently launched jewelry brand. 


Launched at the tail end of last year, Kornberg’s company was inspired by the idea that any outfit can be elevated with the right accessory. The brand’s first collection is filled with statement necklaces, ranging from dazzling heart pendants on rope to chunky lacquer-coated charms on silver chains. 


Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, which The Dirty Chic founder describes as a “big powerhouse for all the retailers,” Kornberg knew from an early age that she was destined to start her own business. Figuring out which retail sector to enter was a challenge, considering the fashion industry’s oversaturation.




After spending a month strolling through the streets of Europe and visiting different open-air markets, she was inspired by the variety of goods present and recognized what she felt was a gap in the American accessories market: quality, unique jewelry. Kornberg, who majors in Graphic Design and holds a minor in Design and Startups, challenged herself to find creative ways to fill this gap, resulting in the creation of The Dirty Chic.


“I called it the Dirty Chic because I wanted these pieces to be for the dirty and the chic, and I wanted the pieces to be versatile,” says Kornberg.


When ZIPPED caught up with Kornberg, dressed in true founder fashion in an all-black sweatsuit, she emphasized her intentions of designing pieces that could be worn to class, work, or any formal event. 


“If you pair a necklace with a blazer, it will look just as good as if you’re wearing it with a sweat set.” 





For many people, jewelry pieces hold personal significance, and the origins of Kornberg’s pieces are no exception. Each necklace from the Dirty Chic has not only a unique look but a personal story behind it. The brand’s first drop includes a variety of necklaces and a few matching charm bracelets. Although Kornberg couldn’t pick her favorite, she highlighted a few; in particular, the Annabel and the Fiorella. 


“The Fiorella heart necklace was named after my aunt, who passed away when I was a sophomore in high school,” said Kornberg. “I always called her Auntie Flower. Inside the silver heart is a flower and a red heart, so I decided to dedicate it to her. I know if she were alive, she would have loved it.”


The Annabel necklace also bears personal weight for the founder. “My parents are from London, born and raised, and they met at a place called Annabel’s. It was very much an ode to [them] because I wouldn’t be here without their support” said Kornberg.


While starting a business from scratch is a massive undertaking, Kornberg is taking the challenge in stride. Her biggest hurdle so far has been spreading brand awareness and promoting her products, something she says she was prepared for. 


“This isn’t going to take off overnight; it will take time. When I have my down moments, I always look back and think I was so silly for being upset. The fact is, I’m putting myself out there at this age and trying something new,” says Kornberg.  


To continue spreading brand awareness, The Dirty Chic is having a 15% off sale this Valentine’s Day.


For students looking to explore their own entrepreneurial pursuits, Kornberg says that simply taking the leap is the first step.                            


“My biggest advice is to roll with an idea and see where it takes off. If you fail, you try again. You’ll never know what opportunities you’ll encounter unless you try.”