The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2025 - Issue 37

Cristina Lloyd is captivated by Katya Katya and BAÉ founders Katya Shehurina and Marina Kvasova’s designs and BAÉ’s Queen of Hearts collection. bitefashion A fter graduating from the fashion design school ES- MOD in Paris, Latvian native Katya Shehurina founded her brand Katya Katya in 2007. Four years later, she and best friend Marina Kvasova opened their first boutique in London’s Carnaby Street. Drawing from Katya’s experience working with French designers Nicolas Fafi- otte and David Purves, the brand specialises in handcrafted bridal and evening wear gowns from the finest French and Ital- ian laces. Friends since school, Katya and Marina built Katya Katya to become a respected luxury womenswear brand. They have stockists in the UK, Europe, and Asia and plan to expand more globally. The made-to-order demi-couture gowns are sewn by machines and finished by hand in their studio in Riga, Latvia. Marina’s role as managing director and head of wholesale en- compasses all business areas, from brand strategy management to wholesale client relations. Their Symphony collection showcased pieces like Allegra, a vin- tage-inspired regal wedding dress that created a beautifully light and breathable silhouette with a delicate yet dramatic tiered skirt. The gown is finished with a natural sash belt adorned in radiant Swarovski embellishments that sit neatly on the waist. Capella is a dreamy dress with a voluminous yet light tulle skirt for a classical bride. It has an illusion neckline with a modest top and cap sleeves finished with scalloped edges. Twyla is a classic Galaxy collection gown with a romantic sweet- heart neckline, a cinched waist for a flattering and supporting top, and a soft A-line silk skirt perfect for a classic manor house or hotel wedding. The unique showstopper Vega has a long- sleeve lace top under a modern structured bodice. It is a versa- tile modest top that can be removed for the evening, finished in a cinched waist, a dropped peplum, and a modern tiered skirt. Garden Whispers produced pieces like the Peony Ivory Lace Wedding Dress, a versatile two-in-one design featuring a re- Queen of Hearts BAÉ Designer Profile