Rike Shell Beaded Top

Over 1,000 shells, each one stitched by hand over a satin base. The Rike Top 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 and laced up closing for the back. WEIGHT: This dress weighs approximately 2.5 kg (5.6 lbs), the weight of more than 1,000 hand-stitched shells. It noticeably heavier than it appears in photography. FABRIC CARE: Dry clean only, to protect the shells. Hang carefully KEY DETAILS: Primary Fabric: Satin (base fabric) Embellishment: Over 1,000 hand-stitched shell embellishments Neckline: Halter with open back cut-out Closure: Laced tied at the back Fit Notes: True to size Model is wearing: Weight: Approximately 2.5 kg (5.6 lbs) Lead time: 2 Weeks Available in sizes UK 6–2 / US 2–20. See the full size guide: HERE BEFORE YOU ORDER Is the Rike Shell Beaded Top true to size? Yes. The Rike Top fits true to size, so take your usual size. Check the size guide at kilentar.com/pages/size-chart, and contact hello@kilentar.com if you are between sizes. How heavy is the Rike Shell Beaded Top? The dress weighs approximately 2.5 kg (5.6 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 Top 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 Top? Dry clean only — the shells 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 Top? Each Rike Dress is made to order, with every one of its 1,000-plus shells stitched by hand — please allow 2 weeks before dispatch. If you have an event deadline, contact us at hello@kilentar.com before ordering to confirm availability.