Didi Budiardjo

Meet the region's leading fashion designers

Since launching his first ready-to-wear line, Anonymous, in 1989, Didi Budiardjo has stamped his mark on Indonesia's traditional styles with his contemporary designs. He began his career as an apprentice to designer Susan Budihardjo, and studied at Lembaga Pengajaran Tata Busana. After launching Anonymous, he studied at Atelier Fleuri Delaporte in Paris in 1991, then returned to Indonesia. He released his couture line, Didi Budiardjo, in 1996. Dramatically different from his previous collections, it's earned him awards in Indonesia.

Have you always wanted to be a designer?

Not really. I used to imagine myself as an art curator when I was a child.

How is your company set up?

I have 40 employees, including seamstresses, beaders and embroiderers, cutters and administrative staff. I design the entire collection, but I also design for another house, Prajudi, known for its evening gowns worn by the likes of Nancy Reagan and Imelda Marcos. Prajudi died 10 years ago. Five years later, they appointed me head of the design team. I create a menswear line for the house.