Tanya Carlson

Tanya Carlson is a New Zealand womenswear label founded in 1997 by Dunedin designer Tanya Carlson. It is known for flowing dresses, opulent fabrics and tailored pieces made in New Zealand.

What is Tanya Carlson?

Tanya Carlson is an eponymous womenswear label from New Zealand, launched in 1997. The designer grew up on the Otago Peninsula and is based in Dunedin.

History

Carlson studied fine arts at what is now the National Art School in Sydney and completed a diploma in fashion design at East Sydney TAFE. She then refined her tailoring and finishing skills designing made-to-measure garments in Dunedin before launching her label. Over the years she has designed more than 200 custom wedding gowns and created costumes for theatre and dance, including productions by choreographer Daniel Belton.

Products and positioning

The label is associated with flowing gowns and rich fabrics that draw on romantic, historical and classical influences. Its design language also references traditional menswear tailoring, fine art and the fluid fashion of the 1930s and 1970s. Pieces are intended to be worn season after season rather than follow trends, and garments are made in New Zealand.

• Dresses, skirts, tops and trousers
• Linen and wool pieces and outerwear
• Bridal and made-to-measure work

Distribution

The brand has run boutiques in Dunedin and in Ponsonby, Auckland, and sells through its own online store. It has also been stocked by department stores in New Zealand and Australia.

Why it matters

Tanya Carlson is one of New Zealand's established independent designers, showing the staying power of a locally made, craft-focused label.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Tanya Carlson from?

Tanya Carlson is a New Zealand designer who grew up on the Otago Peninsula and is based in Dunedin.

What is Tanya Carlson known for?

The label is known for flowing gowns, opulent fabrics and tailored womenswear with romantic and classical influences.

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