Inside the Glittering World of Tako Mekvabidze

© Tako Mekvabidze

In an industry often driven by trends and constant reinvention, Tako Mekvabidze has remained committed to her own creative language. Through collections filled with shine, texture and expressive detail, the Georgian designer has built a universe shaped by instinct, emotion and craftsmanship.

Who is the Tako Mekvabidze woman, and what sets her apart?

The Tako Mekvabidze woman is festive, joyful, and unapologetically expressive. She doesn’t follow trends; she dresses from emotion. My collections are never created based on what is fashionable at the moment, but on feelings, energy, and individuality.

Glitter, colours, shine… these elements have always been part of my world. I remember a colleague once telling me, “Tako, this is so out of fashion, too many colours, too much glitter.” But I never wanted to create something minimal just because it was trendy. I stayed true to my vision.

A Tako Mekvabidze woman is confident enough to stand out. She dresses to celebrate herself, not to blend in.

Can you tell us more about your creative process and how involved you are?

My creative process is very personal and emotional. Every collection begins with a feeling, a woman, a moment, or an energy that stays in my mind.

I’m involved in every step of the process myself. From the first sketches to fabric selection, fittings, sewing, and the final details, I oversee everything very closely. Of course, there are areas like PR where you can work with a team, but creatively, I need to feel connected to every part of the collection.

For me, fashion is not only about the final look on the runway. It’s about building an entire world around a collection. I love being hands-on because it allows me to protect the emotion and authenticity behind each piece.

Even when a design feels glamorous or theatrical, there is always something deeply human behind it.

© Tako Mekvabidze

How does Georgia and its culture influences your work?

I love my country very much. I come from the seaside region of Georgia, and I feel deeply connected to my roots. Georgia inspires me constantly; its traditions, craftsmanship, colours, and atmosphere influence a lot the way I create.

For my Spring/Summer 2025 collection, I was inspired by Acharian embroidery, which comes from the Adjara region of Georgia. Traditionally, these embroideries are very detailed and expressive, often featuring ornamental patterns, rich textures, and handcrafted elements that reflect the identity of the region and its artisanal heritage.

I wanted to reinterpret this craftsmanship in a contemporary way through silhouettes, embellishments, and details that still carried the spirit of Georgian culture while feeling more modern.

Georgian culture has a strong emotional presence, and I think that intensity naturally appears in my work. Even when I create something modern or glamorous, there is always a connection to where I come from and the visual world I grew up around.

What would be your advice to young designers ?

I think the most important thing is hard work. Talent is important, of course, but without discipline, patience, and consistency, it’s very difficult to build something lasting.

Young designers should also not be afraid of rejection. In fashion, you will hear ‘no’ many times from people, from stores, from opportunities, but that should never stop you from continuing. Rejection is part of the process, not the end of it.

I also believe patience is essential. Today, many people expect immediate success, but building a brand and developing your identity takes time. You have to grow step by step, learn continuously, and stay true to your vision even when things move slowly.

Most importantly, don’t try to become someone else. The strongest designers are the ones who create from their own world and emotions.