For AW23-24 Tata Naka takes inspiration from the world of ballet rehearsals, looking beyond the magic one sees on stage.
Eschewing the elaborate costumes and flawless performances of the dancers on stage for the behind-the-scenes style at the rehearsals themselves. Tata Naka explores classical studio dance wear – leotards, floaty chiffon skirts, leg warmers, warm up pants – mixed with the dancers off duty looks including cosy knits, tweed blazers and oversized coats.
The colour palette features soft pastels associated with dance wear: lavender, salmon, pink, jade, yellow and turquoise.
Prints are inspired by the vintage-style florals often seen on leotard designs. The same motifs feature as beaded panels inserted in cut-out dresses and are also incorporated in soft cashmere pieces. A sportier sweatshirt-style range of jumpers showcases Tata Naka’s interpretation of Giselle, Romeo and Juliet and The Swan ballet posters.
Outerwear includes colourful herringbone tweeds with knitted detailing that creates a layered look, and Tata Naka’s signature padded print bombers and oversized coats.
For the presentation Tata Naka is working with Elena Glurjidze, the former lead principal ballerina of English National Ballet and her ballet school Masters of Ballet Academy who will stage a ballet rehearsal for guests to experience.