Rike Shell Beaded Skirt

Over 1,000 shells, each one stitched by hand over a satin base.

The Rike Skirt honours the shell-craft tradition found across coastal West Africa, worked by Kíléntár's artisans into a halter-neck silhouette with an open back cut-out. At the hem, off-white tassel fringe carries the movement the shells begin. Available in Regular (45 inches) and Tall (50 inches) lengths.

WEIGHT: This skirt weighs approximately 3 kg (6.6 lbs) — the weight of more than 1,000 hand-stitched shells. It hangs and moves with real presence, and is noticeably heavier than it appears in photography.

FABRIC CARE: Dry clean only, to protect the shells and fringe. Hang carefully to preserve the embellishments and tassels.

KEY DETAILS:

• Primary Fabric: Satin (base fabric)
• Embellishment: Over 1,000 hand-stitched shell embellishments; off-white tassel fringe at hem
• Closure: Back Zip
• Fit Notes: True to size, designed to flatter across body types. Regular 45 inches, Tall 50 inches
• Model is wearing: 
• Weight: Approximately 3 kg (6.6 lbs)
• Lead time: 2 weeks

Available in sizes UK 6–24 / US 2–20. See the full size guide: HERE

Is the Rike Shell Beaded Skirt true to size?
Yes. The Rike Shell Beaded Skirt fits true to size, so take your usual size. It comes in Regular (45 inches) and Tall (50 inches) lengths — the model wears UK 6 / US 2 in Tall. Check the size guide at kilentar.com/pages/size-chart, and contact [email protected] if you are between sizes.

How heavy is the Rike Shell Beaded Skirt?
The dress weighs approximately 3 kg (6.6 lbs) — over 1,000 shells stitched by hand account for most of that. The weight is part of the design: it anchors the drape and gives the dress its presence. Expect a substantial garment, not a floaty slip dress.

Will the shells on the Rike Skirt fall off?
Each shell is stitched on individually by hand. To keep them secure, dry clean only, hang the dress carefully between wears, and avoid contact with sharp jewellery, zips, or bags that could catch a thread. Treated with that care, the shellwork is made to last.

How do I care for the Rike Shell Beaded Skirt?
Dry clean only — the shells and tassel fringe need professional care, never a machine. Store the dress hanging so the fringe falls straight and the shells are not crushed under other garments. Dress carefully to avoid snagging the hand-stitched threads.

How long does it take to make the Rike Shell Beaded Skirt?
Each Rike Skirt is made to order, with every one of its 1,000-plus shells stitched by hand — please allow 2 weeks before dispatch, plus shipping time. If you have an event deadline, contact us at [email protected] before ordering to confirm availability.