Karleo Unveils ‘Reverie’ Couture Collection Inspired by Ballet, Marking Dance School’s 60th Anniversary
The 15-ensemble collection brings together ballet-inspired silhouettes, experimental embellishment techniques and bespoke performance costumes in association with The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance.
Karleo has introduced ‘Reverie’, a couture collection inspired by the grace, discipline and artistic expression of ballet. Presented in association with The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance, the collection marks the institution's 60th anniversary and brings together the worlds of cultural preservation and contemporary couture.
15 Ensembles Translate Ballet into Couture
Comprising 15 distinctive ensembles, Karleo Reverie interprets the movement, proportions and visual elements of ballet through the brand's bridal and eveningwear designs.
The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance was founded by Tushna Dallas in 1966 and is now led by her daughter, Khushcheher Dallas. Over six decades, the institution has focused on preserving classical ballet and Western dance traditions while training generations of dancers.
The collection draws inspiration from ballet's characteristic elements, including tutus, flowing movement and the silhouettes of ballerinas. Layers of tulle, satin and crinoline feature across voluminous ball gowns, fit-and-flare designs and A-line silhouettes.
Experimental Techniques and Couture Detailing
Alongside intricate embroidery and crystal embellishments associated with couture, the collection explores a range of material treatments and construction techniques.
These include heat-moulded fabrics, laser-cut metalwork and fishnet detailing. Feathers, tassels and textures created using safety pins add further detail to the garments.
The designs combine ballet-inspired romance with occasionwear aesthetics while exploring more sculptural and expressive approaches to couture.
Ballet Performance to Present the Collection
Rather than a conventional runway presentation, the collection will be unveiled through a ballet performance. Seven bespoke ensembles have been created for the performing ballerinas, incorporating personal motifs shared by the dancers.
Leon, co-founder and designer, said the performance format would bring the inspiration behind the collection directly into the showcase.
Karan Berry, creative director at Karleo, said:
“For Karleo Reverie, we wanted each ballerina to see a part of her own story reflected in what she wears. The personal motifs shared by the dancers allowed us to bring that individuality into the designs, making each ensemble more than just a couture creation. It became our way of honouring the art of ballet and the people who have dedicated themselves to keeping it alive.”
Performance-Ready Construction for Dancers
Designing couture garments for ballet performers required particular attention to fit and movement. The inner foundations of the performance ensembles incorporate stretch, while adjustable closures accommodate the range of movement required during ballet performances.
The garments have been developed to support the dancers' movements while retaining the structure and finish associated with couture.
Ballerina, fashion personality and event host Sukanya Shah will also be part of the showcase, bringing together her interests in dance and fashion.
Celebrating Six Decades of Dance and Craftsmanship
For Karleo, Reverie explores how couture can engage with artistic disciplines beyond fashion. For The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance, the collaboration marks six decades of preserving and passing on dance traditions.
The collection brings cultural preservation and contemporary creativity together, recognising the generations of dancers who have contributed to keeping the art form alive.