Fashion Icons Part 2: Diana Rikasari

At long last, it's time for the second installment of my fashion icons series! Like I said in my first post, my fashion icons are definitely not the typical ones we always hear about in magazines. Not that I think I'm a special snowflake or anything, but I've never felt inspired by Audrey Hepburn or Ali Macgraw or... whoever. So last year, I set about figuring out who does inspire me. My first fashion icon was Harold Lloyd, a silent film actor.

My second icon is Diana Rikasari, an Indonesian blogger and shoe designer.

I've been following her blog for a number of years (I think she started blogging before I did!), and I've always enjoyed it. She started out as a blogger, but now she has her own shoe company, Up! In addition to being an imaginative, fun dresser, she is also probably one of the most inspirational bloggers I've ever come across. Diana always has a positive outlook on life, despite whatever setbacks come her way, and her infectious optimism spreads to her loyal readers.

Without further ado, let's get into what makes her so unique.

1. With flying colors (and patterns, too!)

In my last icon post, I talked about creating a signature look. I also mentioned that a signature look does not have to mean that you wear a certain piece or makeup all the time, but that it could be that you evoke a certain feeling with your clothes on a consistent basis. I think that's exactly what Diana does in expertly mixing patterns.



This outfit reminds me very much of Custo Barcelona's spring 2012 looks, but Diana's been mixing prints since before it was really on our minds. Now, it's a little more common, but I still think she's got everyone beat in achieving an eclectic, yet overall pleasing look.



So how do you mix patterns this bold without looking like you've just rolled around in a big pile of clothes and wore whatever stuck? First, let me give you advice -- if you dress like this, people will look at you. Be prepared for that. Some people won't like it, some will, but as long as you feel comfortable, you'll be okay.



My second piece of advice is pick a palette (see below). By limiting your patterns to a certain set of colors, you avoid clashing. Instead, the different pieces work together harmoniously. In the picture above, Diana's wearing three different patterns, but several colors are repeated: a burnt orange-brown, cream, black, and blue.

2. Bring a jacket! Layering.

An easy way to mix patterns is to layer. Layering in the summertime can be a little difficult, as you've got to worry about overheating and such. However, open oxford shirts, short kimono jackets and bed jackets offer lightweight options for layering. Don't forget about layering tanks and t-shirts too!

I love Diana's nautical-inspired outfit here, especially the cute sailor's hat she's wearing. She's probably the only person I can think of who could pull that off!

She layers a striped t-shirt, an open polka-dotted blouse and a silky looking jacket.

Here, Diana layers two differently striped tees for a USA-centric look.

3. Black is beautiful.

Like I said, even when she wears black, it's still exciting.

Diana often uses dark pieces with interesting texture, like this sequined shirt or the leather t-shirt below.



Going to the opposite side of the color spectrum, (nearly) all white looks great too!

Finally, here are some pieces and tips to inspire you:

Pattern mix: Pick a palette by thefrocker featuring embroidered jackets

Black works. by thefrocker featuring patent leather high heels

Let's go to bed. by thefrocker featuring printed scarves

I want to thank Diana for being so gracious and allowing me to use her pictures for this post. Please check out her blog, hot chocolate and mint, and her shoe company, Up!