About Shika - The La' Shika Bridal story
"Much of my life has been about clothes and fashion and I wish to spread that passion," Shika says.
Shika Braddock of La' Shika Bridal specialises in bridal couture and fashion for special occasions. Please take the time to look at a selection of the real brides that Shika has created unique gowns for.
As a child, Shika liked to dress up and make her own outfits from different combinations of clothes. She did not want to dress like the other girls and always got recognition for being creative. She thinks that the creativity might be in her genes as her mother's hobby was making clothes.
Shika has lived much of her life overseas and spent time moving in diplomatic circles. During this time she was a member of the International Women's Club. Her contribution to the club each year was designing clothes for the expat women's community for charity fashion shows. This involvement also meant that she has had first-hand experience of dressing up for many functions herself and that she has a true understanding of special occasion fashion and what is needed to make people look good and feel great about themselves, as well as being truly appropriate for the occasion.
Returning to New Zealand, Shika decided to take formal training in the fashion industry by attending the New Zealand Institute of Fashion Technology on Featherston Street, Wellington. During her studies she volunteered behind the scenes in fashion catwalk shows. In 2005 Shika completed her studies and following her love of formal wear, started working with Ashley Fogel. Ashley Fogel is one of New Zealand's top designer labels.
Because of that love of formal wear, as well as evening wear and bridal wear, Shika decided to leave her job and start her own fashion business. In 2006 Shika received a grant from New Zealand Trade & Enterprise as recognition of her commitment.
Shika's design experience has also allowed her to expand her collection to include the entire bridal party. She is also able to help with wedding themes and colours.
