TAKARA—like Beyoncé—needs only one name, and with her extraordinary talent, that’s more than enough. I’m beyond proud to call her a longtime friend—a true kindred spirit who has walked this fashion journey with me for decades.
Our story goes back over 30 years, when I first introduced her brand to Essential Elements. We clicked instantly, and before we knew it, we were traveling together—two trips a year to the Las Vegas trade shows, eventually adding New York to the mix. Through it all, I’ve watched her creativity unfold in ways that never cease to amaze me. Her designs are pure magic, and Chicago (along with fashion lovers everywhere) adores wearing her—whether it’s her stunning accessories or the coolest, most artful clothing.
While attending one of many New York trade shows, always so much fun!
Have a peek at Takara's bio to delve a little more into her rich history.
Born to West Indian parents and educated in Los Angeles, Takara made her mark in the design world over 40 years ago with her bold, ethnic-inspired jewelry and accessories. Over the years, she has expanded her creative vision to include an exquisite clothing line, seamlessly blending American style with global influences under her brand, Takara Designs.
Her work has been featured in prestigious museums and catalogs, including Artful Home, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia. A true entrepreneur, she once owned three retail shops in downtown Oak Park—a shoe boutique, Takara Home, and Takara Designs Boutique. Though she closed her clothing boutique during the pandemic, she pivoted with resilience, transforming her Chicago studio into a private showroom for exclusive appointments. She also launched a program to put seamstresses back to work making masks, a move that revitalized her brand.
Now, Takara is expanding once again with the launch of Take 6—a brilliant new collection designed for travel and a more modern, relaxed wardrobe. Six versatile garments effortlessly transform into twelve stylish looks, perfect for today’s more casual sensibilities. With exciting artistic collaborations on the horizon, Takara continues to push the boundaries of creativity. Explore her designs at ShopTakara.com.
Gurlfriends celebrating Takara's daughters wedding!
For Black History Month, we're thrilled to offer a special commemorative brooch in homage to the legendary Judith Jamison, choreographer, dancer, artistic director, and later transitioning to artistic director emerita of the famed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Adding to the fun, each local purchase of the brooch will be entered into a raffle to join Takara and I for an afternoon production by the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, exciting!
Stay tuned for even more TAKARA, follow her on all social media platforms, you'll be glad you did!
In Grace & Fashion
Mel
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