Today marks one year since I became the owner of NICO Underwear - and what a year it's been.
For 12 years, I worked as a journalist. I covered politics, health, foreign affairs, women's issues. I told other people's stories. But deep down, I had always dreamt of owning my own fashion label. Something creative. Something that could make a difference.
When the opportunity to take on NICO came along, it felt like everything clicked into place. I admired the brand - its ethos, its minimalistic yet distinctive designs, its beautiful colours, and its focus on being gentle on both skin and planet. It wasn't just another label; it was a brand with integrity. Lis Harvey, NICO's founder, had thought about every detail, and I knew I wanted to carry that legacy forward.
A Year of Learning and Growing
The first year of owning NICO has been both exhilarating and humbling. Coming from journalism, where deadlines move at lightning speed, I quickly learned that running a fashion business requires a different kind of patience and precision. From production cycles to customer care, there's an art to balancing creativity with responsibility.
Some of the changes I've introduced include producing only what we need - no overordering, no unnecessary waste. We've also launched an in-house alteration service, which allows customers to have their garments tailored to fit perfectly. It's rare in the world of underwear, but I believe every body deserves pieces that feel like they were made just for them.
And, of course, NICO is no longer a solo project. I've had the privilege of bringing Ella Critchlow on board. She's creative, talented, and such a joy for our customers to work with, and her energy has added so much to the brand.
Moments I'll Never Forget
One of the biggest highlights for me this year was travelling to India to meet our makers. To see firsthand the care that goes into every single garment was incredible. From organic cotton being selected, to plant dyes being prepared, to the 18 stitches it takes to craft a single bra. The process is meticulous. Standing in those workshops, watching the skill and dedication of the people who bring NICO to life, was a reminder of why sustainability and craftsmanship matter so much.
Another highlight came just last month, when NICO was awarded the Sustainability Award at the Sansoniverse Awards. That recognition was such a proud moment - not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of this journey so far.
Listening, Adapting, Creating
Perhaps what I've loved most is getting to know our customers. Their feedback has been invaluable in shaping where we take the brand. They've asked for new colourways, so we've delivered. They've told us where our designs could be more practical - like reworking bra straps - and we've listened. The connection between brand and community has been a driving force behind everything we've done.
Looking Ahead
The next year feels even more exciting. We've got two brand new products launching in November - pieces NICO has never done before - as well as fresh colours in our most popular ranges. Just last week, we released our first ever cherry print in collaboration with an artist, and the response has been incredible. It's fun, playful, and a little different - and that's exactly where I want to take NICO: evolving, while staying true to its roots.
Owning NICO has been the biggest leap of my career so far. From journalism to fashion, the industries may be worlds apart, but the common thread is storytelling - whether through words or through design. And this first year has only confirmed what I felt when I first discovered the brand: NICO is special.
