Modern and casual style from First Rite

Emerging from one of San Francisco’s hippest, art-friendly neighbourhoods known as The Mission, designer Nikki Garcia brings us minimalist and modern with her womenswear label, First Rite.  Launched in the spring of 2011, Garcia always knew she wanted to be involved in clothing design, and after studying business in her home state of Montana, she moved to San Francisco to attend The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM).  There, she began constructing her own designs between school breaks, even selling at local boutiques.  Now, the self-described thrift store addict designs the collection in the comfort of her own rustic-style loft, where she both lives and works. 

With pleated pants, beautifully constructed blazers and airy silk tops, Garcia describes her line as “dressy but wearable” and nods to her own personal style as influence.  Hints of western, gaucho and menswear-inspired pieces in feminine shapes give the collection a breezy, tomboyish charm and a unique point of view. 

Using all natural fabrics in neutral shades, it’s clear this North California designer has a real love for the beauty of the natural world.  Take a look at the breath-taking video for the fall 2012 collection filmed in the Point Reyes meadows and be inspired to live the rural life in style. 

For the label’s spring 2013 collection, Garcia plays up her pieces using different textures, patterns and prints, and we love the mix and match possibilities. She even hand-painted some of the designs herself, giving it a personalised touch. 

Claire London

Effortless and cool, we are digging First Rite’s modern, casual style. To learn more about designer Nikki Garcia and First Rite, click here.