Feature with Maya Soul Paustian
Stylist and Creative Consultant, Maya Soul Paustian, is longtime friend of ours and the first person we wanted to introduce to you all. She has a refined aesthetic and an ever-evolving perspective. She's worked in the fashion industry for more than two decades and has built a reputation as a trusted creative partner with an ambition to define and elevate visual identities through styling and creative content - truly an inspiration to us.
We spoke to her about her work and where she finds inspiration as well as her relationship to jewelry and how it started.
Recently she styled the campaign for our newly launched collection; Lyra. You can explore the images here.
5 Quick Questions
What’s your everyday jewelry essential?
My wedding band, a ring from my brother, and one inherited from my grandparents. They all live on the same finger.
Do you prefer silver, gold - or a mix of both?
Mostly gold, though I appreciate silver when it feels right.
What makes a piece of jewelry feel timeless to you?
Memory.
Bold or minimal?
Whichever feels right in the moment.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Ragbag?
An eclectic mix of influences—never just one thing.
Where do you find inspiration for your styling? Are there any cultural references that inspire your work?
Everywhere. I’ve always been particularly drawn to the 1920s and the 1980s—there’s something about the exaggerated silhouettes and sense of contrast that continues to fascinate me.
Who or what has influenced your personal style the most?
My style has never stood still. Every chapter of life has shaped it in some way, and becoming a mother was no exception. It shifted my perspective and, with it, the way I dress. Beyond that, I’ve always looked to especially the women around me - my mother, my grandmother, and my friends—for inspiration.
Which pieces in your wardrobe have become your go-to’s?
I tend to have a uniform these days: a tank top, a thin People’s Republic of Cashmere knit, straight Jeanerica jeans, Jacquemus x Nike sneakers, and my fisherman Loewe bag.
How has Copenhagen changed over the years, and does the city influence your work?
Copenhagen has become a cultural destination in its own right. People come from all over to experience its unique atmosphere. There’s also an inherent ease to the city—people rarely dress up in a formal sense—which has probably shaped my own relaxed approach to style.
How or when did your relationship with jewelry begin?
My grandmother always wore the most exquisite jewelry—a mix of heirlooms and treasures collected from around the world. I was fascinated by the way she adorned herself. My first memory of jewelry, however, is getting my ears pierced in New Hork City as a child. I remember feeling incredibly proud.
How would you style the perfect summer look—from day to night?
During the day, I’d wear an airy white shirt, half-buttoned with the sleeves rolled up, paired with shorts and flip-flops. The Lyra Necklace would be wrapped around my wrist like a bracelet. In the evening, I’d switch into heels and wear the necklace at its full length over the shirt.
Is there a Ragbag style you see as especially versatile?
The Lyra Necklace. I can imagine wearing it countless different ways.
What is your best advice for a good jewelry staple?
A great jewelry staple is something you never have to think twice about putting on. The best pieces become an extension of your personal style rather than an accessory to it.
