Biba was a London-based fashion label defined by its Art Nouveau and Art Deco aesthetics. It represented the youth-driven subculture of the 1960s, emphasizing a romantic, bohemian ethos. The brand utilized slim silhouettes and a signature palette of muted, earthy tones to create a distinct visual identity.
History
Barbara Hulanicki and Stephen Fitz-Simon founded Biba in 1964, initially as a mail-order boutique. It became a central pillar of the Swinging London era, transitioning from a small shop to the multi-story Big Biba department store. The brand is historically significant for democratizing high fashion for young women and pioneering the concept of the lifestyle store. Its influence persisted through its integration of fashion, interiors, and cosmetics into a singular, immersive environment.