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Last week we were so excited when we found out that the cute black top Beyonce was modeling in one of her Instagram pics was on sale for $25. But then when she posted another photo just days later wearing a tank by the same designer, we knew we had to hunt down the lady who won Queen Bey’s heart.
And so, we’d like you to introduce you Diana Ra, the crazy creative and awesome designer behind dRa (get it, Diana Ra!). Now that Beyonce’s a bona fide fan, she’s bound to blow up so we begged her to give us a few minutes to chat about how she got started and what went through her head when she saw ‘Yonce wearing her designs.
SHEfinds: Tell us a little about yourself and your brand. How did you get started?
Diana Ra: I’ve been working in the fashion industry since 2004. Prior to starting dRA, I designed for companies like Arden B, Lucky Brand, and PJK. Having spent the formidable years of my experience in a corporate setting, the idea of having full creative freedom inspired me to start my own fashion line.
dRA finally launched 3 years ago and it was a manifestation derived from the comfort culture synonymous with the SoCal lifestyle and juxtaposed with the elegance of a modern city, especially now with the steady progression of art and cuisine. Our line tends to coincide with these new movements by the use of prim prints coupled with signature structured pieces and vintage inspired silhouettes.
One of Diana’s mood boards.
SF: So, Beyonce is a fan. What’s that like?
DR: Uhhh… I die.
SF: Has there been a moment that’s really just made you feel like “I made it.”
DR: Seeing Bey in dRA was pretty major. I felt like I could drop the mic and retire right then and there.
SF: Ha! On the flip side, what’s been the most challenging aspect of building your brand?
DR: I think that having a clear idea of who you are and what you are trying to project as a brand is very important and initially can be the most challenging. It’s important to establish a concrete identity–not only for your target demographic, but also for yourself so that you maintain a cohesive collection signature to your style every season.
SF: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be doing?
DR: I think maybe a children’s art teacher.
Diana’s desk!
SF: What’s the one item in your closet you can’t live without?
DR: It’s hard to say! But on the regular, you’ll find me in a white tee and jeans or an easy dRA dress.
SF: What’s your favorite piece from the fall collection?
DR: I’m really excited to wear our Vinca vest! It’s a menswear puffer vest that is such an easy piece to pair or accentuate any outfit.
SF: What’s been your greatest accomplishment thus far?
DR: Watching the progression of dRA has made me feel so appreciative and elated at the positive direction it’s taken. We’re in some amazing stores that I would’ve only dreamed of being carried in 2 years ago.
Some good ol dRa inspo.
SF: Okay, random–what’s your favorite food? Where do you get it?
DR: Sushi. My fave spots are Sugarfish, Sushi Zo, Hirozen and Sasabune.
SF: And lastly, what your favorite vacation spot?
DR: The best place I’ve ever been to was Santorini, Greece. It was perfect in every way.
Click through the slideshow to shop some of our favorite dRa pieces for fall.
Be sure to check out this awesome apartment makeover, what we’re buying for fall and Gwen Stefani’s cute overalls.
[Photo: Instagram; Diana Ra]
