Shikoba Bride is the striking independent British bridal label from Becca Jenkinson for free-spirited brides. We chat with Becca ahead of White Gallery to find out more about the brand.
I have always loved fashion and even as a small kid I was obsessed with rock stars and royalty getting married and seeing what they wore. It was usually something a bit out of the ordinary or very over the top! That appealed to me. I don’t think there is anything wrong with standing out or going against the grain, I’d like to think that ethos is how the brand has continued to evolve. Don’t be worried about being a bit different!
It usually starts with a fabric, sometimes it starts with a sketch, but more often I fall for a fabric first that I think Shikoba brides will love. It’s quite an organic process, I then spend time thinking how to shape that into a piece. I work in the design studio, but initially I’m usually found in the office at home that looks out over the garden, I’m lucky to have a garden that is very wild and surrounded by trees, listening to music, it’s very good for the creative process. Once I know, once it clicks, I then work on shaping each design into a look that makes the wearer feel amazing, that is comfy and of course that is very beautiful and free-spirited!
A really key signature element is that at the heart of the brand, regardless of trends that come and go, is that free-spirited, independent minded and eclectic vibe of our brides, is always there underpinning what Shikoba designs are about. I try to respond to that in what I design. Also tassels! I’ve been obsessed with them since the start! They always end up somewhere! I just love them, and they are always optional if it’s not for you.
The current collection is called "Nomad", its for the wandering spirit. The inspiration was visualizing our brides and their dream destinations, mountains, sandy beaches, wildflower meadows, urban landscapes, woodlands and everywhere in between. As usual it’s quite eclectic, there is quite a romantic, ethereal vibe to bridal at the minute, alongside clean lines. There is a bit of both in this collection, but also staying true to Shikoba, I’ve included some new laces into the new collection that have a bit of an edgy vibe, alongside a bit of cottage core too.
Bodhi, it’s free-spirited, fits so many different settings, its a a romantic piece with a bit of sass! It could be worn with hair wavy, barefoot and a shell necklace or with a statement veil and heels, or boots and a cowgirl hat. Lots of ways to make it a brides own look. It’s the nomadic vibe I’ve been aiming for, dresses that will match the wanderlust that inspired the wearer.
I’ve always tried to be sustainable and ethical in our work and designs and I’m excited about doing more in this space. I’ve been quietly working behind the scenes on something specific in this area for a while and looking forward to launching something exciting at White Gallery.