One year of Kimberley at NICO: A Reintroduction.

When Kimberley took over NICO a year ago, it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the brand. For her, it wasn't just about acquiring a fashion label - it was about continuing the legacy of a business she admired.

As a journalist for more than a decade, Kimberley had always dreamt of owning her own fashion label. NICO stood out as something special: a brand built on a considered ethos, with minimalist yet distinctive designs, thoughtful colours, and a commitment to being gentle on both skin and planet. It was this combination - style, substance, and sustainability - that made NICO impossible to resist.

Honouring Lis's Legacy

At the heart of NICO is the vision of founder Lis, whose legacy Kimberley has been determined to honour. What Lis created was not just underwear, but pieces that reflect what women truly want today: designs that are practical, comfortable, and beautiful without being overcomplicated.

In an era when many women are moving away from underwire and lace, Lis's focus on wearability has never felt more relevant. NICO has always been about the pieces you reach for every day - those that support you, fit seamlessly, and feel as good as they look.

Evolving With Purpose

Over the past year, NICO has continued to evolve while staying true to its roots. A key focus has been on mindful production: producing only what is needed, avoiding overordering, and ensuring that every piece has a purpose.

A major innovation has been the introduction of NICO's in-house alteration service. This offering allows customers to have their garments customised for the perfect fit - whether that's shortening a band or adjusting a detail so that it sits just right. It's a rare and thoughtful addition in the world of underwear, and one that reflects NICO's belief that every body deserves a personalised fit.

Behind the scenes, the NICO team has also grown. Ella joined this year, bringing her creativity and warmth to the brand. She has quickly become a favourite with customers, whose experience with NICO is made even better through her skill and care.

A Visit to Our Makers

One of the highlights of Kimberley's first year was visiting NICO's suppliers in India. Witnessing the process from start to finish was a powerful reminder of the craft and care that goes into each piece.

It begins with selecting the finest organic cotton, which is then naturally dyed using plant-based dyes before being cut, moulded, and stitched together. It takes around 18 precise steps to make a single bra. Seeing the many skilled hands behind every garment was a humbling experience and reinforced the beauty of the partnership between NICO and its makers in India - one built on sustainability, respect, and craftsmanship.

Listening to Our Community

The NICO community has been a driving force in shaping the brand's direction. Customer feedback has inspired exciting changes, from introducing new colourways in popular ranges to refining the details that make garments more practical for everyday wear.

Sustainability remains at the core of everything we do, but so does functionality. This balance is guiding improvements such as reworking bra straps for greater comfort, ensuring pieces are not only kind to the planet but also perfectly suited to daily life.

What's Next

As NICO steps into its second year under Kimberley's ownership, there's much to look forward to. November will see the release of two brand new pieces - products never before seen in the collection - alongside fresh new colourways in beloved styles.

This spirit of creativity is already underway, with the recent launch of NICO's first-ever cherry print. Created in collaboration with artist,  Madeline Jovicic, the playful design has been met with love from customers and marks just the beginning of what's to come.

Last month, NICO's commitment to sustainability was also recognised on a bigger stage, with the brand proudly winning the Sustainability Award at the Sansoniverse Awards. It was an exciting milestone that reflects the values at the heart of NICO and the direction Kimberley is determined to take it.

Looking ahead, Kimberley is committed to building on Lis's legacy while bringing her own vision to life: a brand that continues to marry thoughtful design, sustainability, and comfort with fresh ideas that excite and inspire.