Tata Naka spring/summer 2017 collection presentation for LFW

The spirit of bygone Capri was alive and well in Greek Street this London Fashion Week, as Tata Naka showcased its SS17 collection in the upper floors of Bar 49. Drawing on the Bay of Naples’ coastal influences and the reputation of Italian craftsmanship, the brand has produced a sophisticated line in modern shapes that would be as appropriate in the city as on the island.

Distinctly feminine, the collection is oriented towards traditional skirt shapes – although it also demonstrated a willingness to modify these to bring the style into the modern age of fashion. Fitted waists fall into flared skirts that stop just short of the ankle. A pair of shorts is enveloped in a skirt design that falls short of fully circumnavigating the waist; the absence of the front panel shows off the shorts and lends the outfit a modern, but no less soft, feel. There is a range of dress bodices on display. Some are full, with a low V-neck and full sleeves that feature an exaggerated elbow. Others are halter-necked with a banded collar and a cropped waist, connected with the skirt by latticed cotton.The print is the same across all outfits. It replicates an Italian mosaic with human forms, but it is the palette – black, off-white, plum and gold – that makes it particularly regal. 

Some looks are completed with shell earrings and round, thickly framed sunglasses deliberately reminiscent of the 60s. These bring the modern cuts of the collection full circle, back to the early coastal inspiration behind the look. If Tata Naka’s intention was to immortalise the memory of early Naples, these small details have helped it succeed – but have not prevented it from incorporating a uniquely modern twist on the classic beach dress.

Katie Dean
Photos: Krisztian Pinter

For further information about Tata Naka visit here.