1. Introduction

The etymology of TAIKA:

In Finland, it means MAGIC or casting a good spell on someone.

In Japan, it shows progress , resulting in calm and peacefulness. 

In Lithuania: it means peace. 

For me, it was serendipity .......

Over the past 34 years, TAIKA  has evolved from a fledgling concept into a renowned name in women’s fashion. Our journey has been one of creativity, resilience, and continuous adaptation to the ever-changing fashion landscape. This essay chronicles our brand’s evolution, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and the principles that have guided us.

2. Founding and Early Years

TAIKA was born on a cold winter's day in January 1991 with a vision to offer stylish, high-quality clothing for women. The initial years were marked by establishing a strong brand identity and a loyal customer base. We started with a small boutique, emphasising personalised customer service and unique designs that set us apart from mass-market offerings. 

3. Expansion and Innovation

In the late 1990s, we expanded our operations by recognising the growing demand for our designs. This period saw the opening of several new stores and the introduction of seasonal collections. Innovation became a cornerstone of our brand as we began experimenting with different fabrics, cuts, and styles to stay ahead of fashion trends. Our commitment to quality and innovation helped us gain a significant following. Participating in Fashion Weeks twice a year garnered us goodwill and credibility, along with buyers who have stayed with us ever since. 

4. Navigating Challenges

The early 2000s presented new challenges as the global economy faced uncertainties. We responded by streamlining our operations and focusing on sustainable practices. This included sourcing eco-friendly materials and implementing ethical production methods. Our transparency and commitment to sustainability resonated with our customers, strengthening their trust in our brand.

5. Digital Transformation

The rise of e-commerce in the 2010s marked a significant shift in the fashion industry. Embracing this change, albeit reluctantly, we launched an online store, making our designs accessible to a global audience. We also leveraged social media to engage with customers, share our story, and receive real-time feedback. This digital transformation not only increased our reach but also allowed us to create a more interactive and personalised shopping experience.

6. Current Era and Future Aspirations

Today, TAIKA  stands as a testament to three decades of dedication to women’s fashion. We continue to innovate,  incorporating cutting-edge technology to design and digitally print abstract art-inspired patterns and then embroider and appliqué them to enhance the customer experience. Our collections celebrate diversity, offering inclusive sizes and styles to cater to a broad spectrum of women transcending age and boundaries. The silhouettes are edgy and contemporary and appeal equally to domestic as well as international buyers. 

Art plays an integral role in our design aesthetics. As does nature. 

One of our most memorable moments was catwalking on top of the Eiffel Tower. Another was designing costumes for the entire ensemble of Opera L’afayette, which performed Lallah Roukh in The Kennedy Center, Washington, D.C., and the Lincoln Center, New York City, to great applause and accolades. Shows in London and Tashkent followed, as did trunk shows in Hong Kong, Singapore, London, Dubai, New York, Washington, D.C., and Johannesburg.  

I have served as a governor on the board of the Fashion Design Council of India for two terms, totaling six years, which taught me a lot about the business of fashion. 

We aim to further our sustainability efforts and expand our global footprint. We are committed to maintaining the core values that have defined our brand—quality, innovation, and customer-centricity—while adapting to the ever-evolving fashion landscape.

7. Conclusion

The evolution of TAIKA over the past three decades is a story of growth, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to our vision. Our journey reflects the dynamic nature of the fashion industry and the enduring appeal of thoughtful, well-crafted designs. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to empowering women through fashion, continually pushing the boundaries of style and sustainability.

I hope you enjoy them as much as we enjoy bringing them to you. 

Poonam Bhagat