About Me
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From cruise ships to Cape Town to the Scottish Borders
I'm Maura - scarf-obsessed, leggings-devoted founder of Shimena, and living proof that life can take you on the most wonderfully unexpected adventures.
Shimena started in 2017, not in Scotland, but at markets under the South African sun in Cape Town. I had two wee kids, a big imagination, and an even bigger desire to do something creative, flexible, and genuinely fun.
So I turned my love for unique accessories into a business that helps people feel fab - no matter their size, shape, or season. After all, a scarf will always fit! And if it sparks a compliment or starts a conversation? Even better. π
Cruise ships, Cape Town & a love story
Originally from Edinburgh, I met my South African husband while we were both working on cruise ships - yes, really! Life has been a colourful adventure ever since. We settled in Cape Town, had our family, and that's where Shimena was born: at outdoor markets, in the sunshine, surrounded by bold colours and brilliant people.
Back to bonnie Scotland - with a mission
Eventually we made our way back to Scotland and settled in the gorgeous town of Hawick in the Scottish Borders. Three kids, one very understanding husband, and a growing online business later - Shimena moved fully online and I haven't looked back. There's something fitting about bringing bright, joyful colours to Scotland's grey skies! βοΈπ
Then came the leggings - and everything changed
Scarves have always been Shimena's heartbeat, but the leggings? They took on a life of their own. Buttery soft, high-waisted, bold and beautiful - our customers started wearing them for everything. Yoga, dog walks, school runs, nights out. Once you've tried a pair, you'll understand. I've been wearing mine since 2021 and I'm not stopping anytime soon!
The bits that make Shimena tick
Started Shimena under the South African sun at Cape Town markets in 2017
Met my husband on a cruise ship - life has never been boring since!
Mum of 3 - which is basically a full-time job on top of a full-time job!
Edinburgh born, now proudly based in beautiful Hawick in the Scottish Borders
Has been wearing Shimena leggings herself since 2021 - long before selling them
100% recommend on Facebook - 1 real person behind every single order
Always something
exciting
on the way
Hats, gloves, maybe even fashion clothing - but always with that same feel-good, fun-loving energy that Shimena is known for. The best way to never miss a thing? Join the First Dibs List and be the first to know when new drops of leggings land. π