We had the good fortune of connecting with Ksenia Smirnova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ksenia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my business after struggling to find sustainable, body-friendly clothing for dancers that worked for everyday city life too—I discovered a problem and decided to solve it. I was curious if I could keep everything, including manufacturing, right here in my hometown of Los Angeles.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What I’m most proud of is my persistence—I started this journey and never stopped despite numerous challenges. I’ve always refused to compromise on design quality, even when it would have been easier or less expensive to simplify. The greatest challenges came with creating dancewear that meets multiple demanding criteria: it must be health-friendly, exceptionally comfortable, secure during movement, and still adhere to the ballet community’s specific requirements. This commitment to excellence without compromise is what truly sets our brand apart.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d create an itinerary centered around Southern California’s natural beauty: morning hikes along the coastline, picnics near the historic Palos Verdes lighthouse, and takeout from Mitsuwa Marketplace for an authentic Japanese dining experience. For cultural enrichment, we’d attend LA Philharmonic performances or the magical Candlelight concerts. During summer evenings, we’d enjoy outdoor cinema or the jazz concerts at Descanso Gardens—perfect for experiencing LA’s blend of nature and arts.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe so much to the skilled professionals in the industry—from pattern makers to fabric coloring specialists—whose experience helped me overcome countless challenges. A special thanks to Miss D, owner of the School of Couture, whose guidance was instrumental. My success truly reflects the expertise of these generous mentors.

Website: https://urban4rest.com/

Instagram: @urban4rest

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