Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke Dulien.
Hi Brooke , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Los Angeles, raised in Newport Beach, and still call LA home. I’ve fallen into every career I’ve ever had by pure chance. It all started when I drove a friend to the airport for a styling job and ended up assisting him on set. A few years later, while styling another shoot, I couldn’t find a lightning bolt necklace, so I made one. Photographer David LaChapelle took it off my neck and put it on Ryan Phillippe, and the image landed on the cover of Flaunt magazine. That’s how my company, White Trash Charms, was born.
Twenty-five years later, I decided to revisit a candle I had once made for WTC. When I reached out to the manufacturer, he said, “You’re not going to make a candle—you’re going to start a candle line.” And just like that, I fell into my next chapter as a candle maker and founder of RUKSKE—my world of scent, memory, and mood.
Today, I have two accessory brands: one that’s seen, and one that’s experienced.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Although there have been smooth stretches, I’ve definitely had my share of struggles along the way. That’s inevitable with any brand. You learn so much individually and as a founder when those moments come up. I believe the key to getting through business struggles is listening to your gut and never chasing trends—sticking to sound principles instead. There have been times when production fell apart, shipments were delayed, or partnerships didn’t align, but I’ve learned that every problem can be solved. You just have to stay calm, stay curious, and trust that there’s always a way through.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m best known for my jewelry being featured on Sex and the City and for creating the TEAM ANISTON / TEAM JOLIE T-shirts for Kitson back in the day. My pieces have been worn by icons from the 2000s—Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, Madonna, and Britney Spears—and more recently by Doechii and Alix Earle, (who helped put my brand back on the map).
RUKSKE now burns in some of Los Angeles’ best bathrooms—Found Oyster, Petit Trois, and Queen St, to name a few and nothing makes me happier than spotting one burning in the wild.
I design across jewelry and scent, creating accessories that tell a story. More than anything, I’m proud to be a small business owner still thriving in a sea of saturated markets. My love for design is what keeps me grounded and going.
Contact Info:
- Website: whitetrashcharms.com and rukske.com
- Instagram: @whitetrashcharmsjewelry @rukske @brookeelizadulien
Image Credits
Brooke Dulien image by @lauraangelone.
