The Ball

Tariro Mswaka, a fashion design graduate from Middlesex University in London, has created a deeply personal and vibrant final collection titled "THE BALL." Raised in Ireland, Tariro's upbringing in a small Northern Irish town as a black and queer individual significantly influenced his creative journey. Feeling like an outsider in his community, he often grappled with a sense of alienation and identity. These experiences profoundly shaped his vision for "THE BALL," a collection that highlights the queer black experience in London's nightlife through his unique perspective. Seeking inspiration for his final collection, Tariro immersed himself in the rich cultural history of queer nightlife. He was particularly moved by influential documentaries like "Paris is Burning" and TV series such as "Pose," which shed light on the resilience and creativity of the ballroom scene. These works provided not only historical context but also inspirational quotes that resonated deeply with him. "THE BALL" is a deeply personal endeavour for Tariro. His favourite elements of the ballroom scene—voguing, expression, fantasy, and clothing—are all integral to his collection. These spaces allowed him to explore his identity freely, providing a sense of belonging and acceptance that he now seeks to infuse into his designs. In these settings, individuals can become anyone they want to be, wearing whatever they choose without fear of judgment. This ethos of radical self-expression and acceptance is at the heart of Tariro’s collection. Through "THE BALL," Tariro blends his black queer experience with his personal style, creating pieces that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful. His work stands as a testament to the power of fashion as a medium for storytelling, a celebration of the freedom and creativity found within queer nightlife, and a tribute to the community that has shaped and inspired him.