What began as a quaint boutique in the former Atlantic Terrace Motel in Montauk has quickly grown into a mini empire. We sat down with NIBI-MTK founder, owner and designer Kristin Sheeler to talk origins, success and her newly launched collection.
Batik Tile dress ($189).
We are very excited about this season’s collection, but I don’t want togive everything away. You’ll need to visit us for that! We remain focused on barefoot-luxury styles that are totally boho chic combined with my unique textile designs blending the latest trends with handwoven fabrics and tailored designs and fits. As always, we will have a great blend of luxury styles mixed in with fun, casual beachwear inspired by my travels.
Inka cover-up ($125)
We’re really excited by the continued growth of the brand via our two existing stores and a growing social and web presence. I’ve been steadily building this boho-style brand from a small shop I started in a tucked-away spot at the former Atlantic Terrace Motel right on the water in Montauk. From day one the reception has been insane! Our customers kept finding us, the brand kept growing and we knew we needed to be in a bigger space in the main part of Montauk. Oncewe set our sights on it, we found the perfect location and opened our beautiful flagship space in 2018. From there, it was obvious we needed to expand west. Shortly afterward, we found the ideal spot in Bridgehampton and did not hesitate to pounce on it. I knew the women of Bridgehampton needed a laid-back boho-beach vibe added to their fashion options, and I knew NIBI’s barefoot luxury, après-beach approach was the perfect fit.
Bali dress in red ($198)
We carry several brands, with the NIBI-MTKbrand representing about 75% of the store. I love to round out the boutiques with smaller, less recognized brands—our women love to find unique pieces and to stand out in the crowd. I also made it a point to create a boutique experience that can be attainable by all; it’s important to me that everyone is able to enjoy our shops.
Founder, owner and NIBI-MTK designer Kristin Sheeler.
I think two things: First, I rely on my years of textile and concept design experience and all my travels todevelop NIBI-MTK fabrics and designs that are on, or even a little ahead of, trend. My 20-plus years in the business at Ralph Lauren and others gave me a great design base. Second, I limit my design runs so the brand keeps its unique edge. Girls don’t want to go out and be wearing the same thing everyone else is in. NIBI’s unique designs let them stand out in the crowd. 2450 Main St., Bridgehampton; 88 S. Euclid Ave., Montauk; nibimtk.com
Photography by: Photos by Barry Sutton; courtesy of Kristin Sheeler; by Paul Brooke Jr.
