Fotoula is my name
ToTou is the name I grew up with
Hello, I'm Fotoula, the creative force behind Totou Jewelry. Though born in Greece, my journey led me to Belgium when I was just three months old. Growing up between two cultures—perhaps even three, as many Belgians would understand 😉—shaped my perspective in profound ways. It taught me that identity is fluid, that beauty exists in our differences, and that self-expression transcends borders.
As a child, I found "Fotoula" difficult to pronounce, so I started calling myself "Totou." When it came time to choose a name for my brand, it was the first one that came to mind. "Totou" felt like a natural choice, as it carries with it the innocence of creativity and a sense of simplicity at heart.
I was raised in a home where my mother, the epitome of elegance, instilled in me a profound lesson: true beauty isn’t defined by luxury, but by the love and care we show ourselves. She believed that even the smallest gestures—choosing something beautiful, taking a moment for oneself—can cultivate confidence and joy. Her wisdom remains at the heart of my philosophy.
My artistic journey took me to the Brussels School of Fine Arts, where I studied sculpture, followed by a Master’s degree in Art History. These experiences deepened my understanding of form, texture, and the power of adornment. Yet, my creativity is also rooted in something more personal—my father, an engineer, whose hands were always at work, building, inventing, transforming. He taught me that our hands and minds hold infinite potential to create.
Totou Jewelry is born from this legacy—a blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and self-expression. My wish is that each piece invites you to embrace your individuality, to celebrate your ever-changing moods and styles, and to find joy in the ritual of adorning yourself. Because, in the end, taking care of yourself is not just an act of self-love—it is a daily art form.