Our Story
Philosophy
We are "Culturally blended...by design".
"Kimera" is the expression of a new, modern way of living in a world without traditional boundaries. Our goal is to inspire your creative spirit and to guide you in discovering your unique personal style. We have created a line of apparel, accessories, and home furnishings which reflects influences from every corner of the globe. Through our store and our exclusive designs, we at "Kimera" hope to promote an appreciation of diverse cultures and peoples of the world.
Our "Slow Fashion" Approach
Since our founding in 1999, Kimera has operated on a Limited Edition and made-on-demand model which minimizes waste and environmental impact. Our fabrics, although originally from overseas, are primarily sourced locally in New York City's garment district. We also often use vintage and upcycled textiles as well as designer overstocks. Our products are produced one at a time in our Brooklyn studio.
Our Store
Kimera’s flagship store and design studio has relocated to Gowanus, joining a thriving creative community of artists, restaurants and local businesses. The spacious loft serves as a perfect showcase for founder/designer Yvonne Chu’s signature collection of elegant wedding gowns and vibrant silk shantung dresses.
If you're shopping for a wedding gown or special occasion dress, you can expect an inviting and friendly atmosphere where one of our stylists will work with you to create your "special" look. We specialize in simple, elegant non-traditional wedding dresses which are made in our Brooklyn studio. We also have many options for bridesmaids, mothers of the occasion, and flower girls.
Additionally, we stock a carefully curated selection of jewelry, handbags, and accessories by various local designers and fair-trade artisans from around the world.
Yvonne Chu, founder
Yvonne was raised primarily in the suburbs of Houston. The daughter of two architects, she was exposed to design from an early age. She attended Princeton University where she intended to follow in her parents' footsteps, graduating in 1986 with a degree in Architecture. However, while at Princeton, Yvonne discovered an even greater love for fashion and decided to enroll in the Fashion Design program at F.I.T.
Following her graduation from F.I.T. in 1987, Yvonne worked with various designers and studios in New York's garment center, primarily in women's sportswear. She continued successfully as a freelance designer, expanding her areas of expertise to childrenswear and menswear as well as trend analysis, graphic and print design.
Finally in 1999, after over 10 years in the fashion industry, Yvonne decided to pursue her dream of launching her own line and opening her boutique which she called "Kimera", after the mythical creature which was a combination of a lion, a serpent, and a goat. She chose the name because it meant a combination of disparate elements, reflecting her interest in merging various cultures from around the world.
The jewel-box sized boutique on Park Slope's Fifth Avenue served as a showcase for Yvonne's original designs as well as other local artisans and quickly became a local favorite. She soon outgrew the original location and opened the Atlantic Avenue shop in the summer of 2002.
We recently relocated to our current Gowanus location in August 2021.
After more than 20 years, Yvonne continues to be passionate about her designs, remaining involved in every aspect of the business from working personally with the customers to overseeing design and production.
