On the Edge
Diah Djojonegoro’s namesake jewellery brand Diah D is an extension of her personal style, writes Karishma Tulsidas
f a brand’s best ambassador is the designer herself, then Diah Djojonegoro perfectly fits the bill. Her interest in fashion and her personal style, honed by years in the industry, remain the backbone of her jewellery line, Diah D. The designer cut her teeth in New York pursuing her passion for fashion in companies such as Derek Lam and Edun before being enticed by the sparkle of precious stones. Following a course at the Gemological Institute of America, she returned to Singapore in 2010 and set up her eponymous jewellery brand. Ttoday,day she designsdes with the contemporary woman in mind—one who treats jewellery as an extension of her ready-to-wear, and opts for pieces versatile enough to be worn as both daily and evening wear, and edgy enough to stand out in a sea of basics. It is a look that Djojonegoro herself has mastered. “My style is more on the edgy side,” she says. “I mix a lot of classics with modern touches. I tend to stick to a lot of neutrals, especially black when dressing, but I add a lot of my own jewellery to spice things up. When I’m designing, I always ask myself, ‘Would I wear it and would I see anyone else wearing it?’ It is important to design for the everyday woman, and the jewellery has to be functional for different lifestyles.” Her latest collection draws inspiration from her mother’s vintage wardrobe, with touches of art deco and sporting rose-cut diamonds. Djojonegoro has also seen a demand for smaller and fun rings, and has been experimenting with knuckledusters. But for those who are looking for a special je ne sais quoi, the designer is happy to create a one-of-a-kind bespoke piece just for you.