January Style Icon - Rinko Kikuchi

Head liner photography by | Terry Richardson.

This month the style spotlight is on Rinko Kikuchi. Rinko's style can be described as effortless-luxe with an eccentric edge. Her ingenious styling gives off a bold look without much fuss. She makes it quite clear that jewelry and accessories are not essential requirements for a statement look. With a versatile face that can work both avant-garde and ethereal looks, Rinko uses her ever-changing hair style as a vital element when it comes to her personal style. Rinko's style can be broken up into two divisions: sharp 'masculine' daywear and romantic 'feminine' evening wear, both of which focus highly on tailoring.

A Day (Office-to-Cocktail) look inspired by Rinko:

The secret to this look is to opt for neutral or dark colours and then add a splash of colour with just one item. Here's how to do it:

TAILORED TROUSERS:

Start the look with a pair of cigarette trousers in either black, camel or nude. We love Reiss' 'Paris' High Waisted cigarette pants, which is also a timeless and staple wardrobe item you can wear again and again.

(As seen in picture): Reiss 'Paris' High Waisted Cigarette Trousers GBP £89.

FEMININE BLOUSE:

Pair your tailored trousers with a classic long sleeved cream blouse but with an edge. Either a ruffled collar or draped detail works best to create a look that doesn't look too formal and masculine.

(As seen in picture): Topshop 'Long Sleeve Drape Front' Blouse GBP £36.

SHOCKING BLAZER:

Achieving Rinko's masculine/feminine look is instant by simply adding a punch of colour to a tailored, masculine cut jacket. A bold and bright blazer does the trick but attention must be taken to tailoring. A soft tailored jacket will give the perfect balance of masculine and feminine.

(As seen in picture): Stella McCartney 'Golden Syrup Dry Slub Suiting Michelle' Jacket GBP £925.

SIMPLE HEELS:

Rinko tends to opt for neutral coloured shoes, mostly in blacks and creams, and in simple shapes with a moderate heel. Patent courts are again another investment piece that creates Rinko's perfect masculine/feminine balance. The heel is perfect for running errands during the day and still appropriate for after work drinks.

(As seen in picture): Kate Kuba 'Chinese Laundry Whistle Womens Court in Black Patent' shoes GBP £65.

And it's that simple!!!

An evening (cocktail) look inspired by Rinko.

So with all the fashion tips above, the key to Rinko's look is a careful balance between sophistication and experimental:

LACE:

Rinko loves lace. Lace is brilliant for a look that is feminine but to make sure that her bold style is not lost, Rinko goes for a statement dress that is edgy and eye catching.

MINI DRESS WITH A FOCUS ON DETAIL:

Rinko isn't afraid to show a bit of skin, but it is always done in an elegant and sophisticated manner. Opt for a sequins dress with a simple shape and add an extra touch of eccentricity by opting for a dress with a cut out at the back.

(As seen in picture): Top left - Aqua 'Sequin Cape Dress' GBP £95.

Middle left - Ted Baker 'JAMTHUN' Dress GBP £159.

BUCKLE UP SHOES:

A plain black shoe is essential. Whether you opt for courts or boots make sure they are in a black shade with either buckle or bow details. Not only is Miss Kikuchi a fan of pumps she also loves ankle boots so opt for these (for an extra edge) to complete the look.

(As seen in picture):

Higher left - KG Kurt Geiger 'Dolly' beaded and bow detail shoes, was GBP £120, NOW £35.

Bottom left - Carvella at Kurt Geiger 'Goldie' shoes was GBP £150, NOW £59.

Right - Nichole Farhi at Kurt Geiger 'Barney3 2FAM6' Boots was GBP £540, NOW £135.