IN CONVERSATION WITH OLCAY GULSEN

interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI

Numero Netherlands Digital introduces Olcay Gulsen, a renowned Dutch beauty and fashion entrepreneur, founder of Olcay Gulsen Beauty and GUSH. Known for using her platform to empower women, Olcay is an official partner of the U.N. Women’s Rights Organization and actively supports charitable causes. Through her social media, she offers an authentic glimpse into her life as a businesswoman, sharing both successes and challenges. Her beauty brand focuses on uncomplicated, high-quality products made with natural ingredients, aiming to make women feel powerful, confident, and beautiful from within.

Olcay, you’ve built a strong reputation as both a beauty and fashion entrepreneur. What motivated you to start your own beauty brand, Olcay Gulsen Beauty, and how does it reflect your personal values and journey?

As a young girl, both the fashion and beauty worlds really inspired me. These were magical spaces where you could transform into whatever you wanted to be. After a long career in fashion, I decided to venture into the beauty industry. It was a completely new field, so I had to start from scratch, which was an amazing opportunity to learn a lot and also reinvent myself — not only as a female entrepreneur but also in redefining who I was. I once met a really inspiring film director who told me that in the second half of life, you get the chance to become your true self. So, my beauty brand had to be about more than just products. I wanted to build a strong community based on human connection. That's why I partnered with the United Nations, becoming not only their ambassador but also their business partner. Together, we raise funds to combat domestic and gender-based violence. After years of working for commercial gain, it felt right to do something with deeper meaning.

sunglasses SAINT LAURENT by ANTHONY VACCARELLO
jumpsuit TOM FORD
boots JIMMY CHOO

Your work with the U.N. Women’s Rights Organization is truly inspiring. How has this partnership influenced the direction of your brands, and how do you integrate your advocacy for women’s empowerment into your business practices?

I believe that every woman in the world is willing to help another woman in danger. Since our community is mostly women, I decided to partner with UN Women to raise funds and create awareness. We run annual campaigns on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and produce documentaries that shed light on this issue. Domestic violence is the most widespread form of violence globally, and it shocks me that women are often most unsafe in their own homes. Many people don’t realize this, and it has become a major focus of my work to change that.

How do you believe beauty and fashion can be used as tools for empowerment, especially for women who might struggle with self-confidence?

I've always believed that self-love is the most empowering tool a woman can have. Taking care of yourself, dressing well, and living a healthy lifestyle allows you to be the best version of yourself. Some might dismiss this as vanity, but it’s not at all about that.

How do you manage to maintain such transparency on social media, and why do you think it’s important to share the less glamorous side of entrepreneurship?

I believe we are all responsible for sending the right message to younger generations, who may think that life in fashion or beauty is just a glamorous catwalk filled with beautiful, well-dressed people. Being open and transparent is all I can really be.

dress DSQUARED2
belt SAINT LAURENT by ANTHONY VACCARELLO

How do you balance maintaining a public persona with preserving your privacy?

It can be challenging at times, but after all these years, I’ve learned that being open can actually create boundaries for things you don’t want to share. I’ve found a space where I can decide not to share personal things, especially when it involves my family or loved ones.

Your beauty products are made with natural and active ingredients. Can you tell us more about the process of developing these products? 

Our line is developed locally, which I’m very proud of. Our formulas are as clean as possible, vegan, and cruelty-free. Working with Dutch factories ensures a transparent supply chain, allowing us to manage every part easily and ensure we produce only high-quality products.

Fashion and beauty are industries that can sometimes be perceived as superficial. How do you work to challenge these perceptions through your brands and your personal mission?

I believe that building a strong community that speaks out and takes action shows that our work is anything but superficial. We’ve raised over 500K for victims of the earthquakes in Turkey and Morocco, and we’re continuously raising funds for women living in danger. I believe every company, no matter what industry, has the power to show its true colors and speak up on issues they care about.

dress and clip earrings VERSACE
tights WOLFORD, RYKER
shoes JIMMY CHOO

Your personal style is always on point. What fashion brands or designers inspire you the most, and how would you describe your own style?

I’d describe my style as classic with an edge. I love long lengths, tonal outfits, and statement jewelry and bags. My all-time favorite designers are The Row and Saint Laurent; they create high-quality pieces that are not trendy but always timeless. 

You’ve surrounded yourself with a strong network of friends and collaborators. How important is this support system to you? 

Without a strong team of trustworthy, hard-working people, you can’t achieve anything. I’ve always invested in young talent, many of whom have grown into successful entrepreneurs themselves. This, too, is a big part of empowerment.

As a successful entrepreneur and public figure, what’s next for you and your brands? Are there any upcoming projects or new ventures you’re particularly excited about?

We’re ready to launch OGB into international markets. Next year, we’re expanding to the USA, Turkey, and the Middle East. I’m super excited to see how our lifestyle brand will translate and thrive in these new territories.

TEAM CREDITS:
talent OLCAY GULSEN
photographer DANIEL SARS
stylist MISHA KRATINA
makeup & hair ANH NGUYAEN using NARS & KEVIN MURPHY
styling assistant CATO CAVENS
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN