Meet: Shanna Bent, founder of Maison Bent

Shanna Bent, the founder of Maison Bent, studied a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at Central Saint Martins (CSM) in 2009 before going on to complete her BA (Hons) in Fashion Design and Development at London College of Fashion (LCF) in 2013.

Founded in 2020, Maison Bent draws inspiration from Shanna’s Jamaican heritage and her grandparent’s journey to the West as part of the Windrush generation. The brand’s signature style is empowering occasion wear, combining vintage Caribbean aesthetics with modern glamour.

Shanna spoke to us about her experience setting up her own brand and the importance of storytelling in her work.

You graduated from CSM in 2009, and LCF in 2013. What did you enjoy most about your time at the Colleges?

CSM had an almost mythical reputation at the time, and getting in felt like an impossible dream, so, being there was quite surreal. The Back Hill building carried so much history, and the sheer level of creativity was electrifying.

The leap from sixth form to Foundation was HUGE: suddenly, you’re completely independent, which was daunting but also incredibly strengthening, and the perfect preparation for my BA at LCF. Both colleges, set in the heart of London, placed me at the centre of constant cultural and creative energy. I had a great time being immersed in the world of fashion and art.

What was a highlight from the BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development course?

It’s a close tie between my placement year and the end-of-year Press Show! The placement year gave me invaluable real-world experience, but the Press Show was something I’d had my heart set on from the start. I remember wanting it SO badly and making it through in the final selection. It was an unforgettable moment!

Why did you choose to study fashion design?

I’ve always been artistically inclined, but in my early teens I realised that fashion design was the perfect avenue to express my creativity. Fashion is the most accessible art form for me as it allows me to blend all my skills, from sketching and painting to working with textiles, in a way that feels limitless.

After graduating, you went on to work for some incredible brands including Agent Provocateur and Roland Mouret. Can you tell us more about your career?

Interning at AP and Roland Mouret gave me invaluable insight into different corners of the fashion industry.

From there, I spent 6 years working at St Pancras Chambers Collection - an accessories brand helmed by the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

Along the way, I became a part-time journalist, which sharpened my ability to capture a brand’s essence and grab the attention of fashion writers. I truly believe that every experience I’ve had has shaped me as a brand owner today. Running a fashion label is so much more than just designing, it’s about storytelling, strategy and navigating an ever-evolving industry.

In 2020, you launched your own fashion brand, Maison Bent. What was the inspiration behind the designs and style?

Maison Bent was born from a desire to share untold stories of identity, resilience and heritage. My biggest inspirations are my grandparents and the stories they’ve shared of their lives in Jamaica, their journey to London during the Windrush era, and the generations they’ve built here. My designs reflect the beauty and complexity of cultural identity, shaped by colonial history yet deeply rooted in self-expression. The brand challenges dominant fashion narratives, creating visuals that invite people to see themselves in Black women, just as Black women have long seen themselves reflected in others. More than just a fashion label, Maison Bent is a platform for storytelling, representation and cultural reclamation.

What has been a personal highlight since launching Maison Bent?

Since launching Maison Bent, there have been countless, unforgettable moments. A big personal highlight has been watching the brand evolve beyond fashion into a platform for storytelling, representation and cultural dialogue.

Receiving an invitation to showcase on    the official London Fashion Week schedule was a surreal moment as it was something I hadn’t expected to happen so early in the brand’s journey. Being selected for pop-ups at Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and Fenwicks were also incredible milestones as these were rare opportunities for an emerging designer; and partnering with platforms like MyWardrobeHQ, ByRotation and HURR also reinforced my vision of making luxury fashion more accessible and circular.

What advice would you give to someone who has recently graduated?

Remember that everyone’s journey is unique. What works for someone else may not work for you, and vice versa. Trust your own process, stay confident in your path, and focus on building authentic connections. The right opportunities will come when you align with what truly resonates with you.

Can you tell us what you’re currently working on?

It's an exciting time for Maison Bent as we celebrate its fifth year! You can sign up to our newsletter to be the first to hear about all upcoming announcements.