Kimia Arya’s journey is a testament to the power of risk-taking and unwavering belief in one’s vision. From leaving a stable banking career to venturing into the competitive world of fashion with no prior experience, Arya has consistently embraced challenges, transforming them into stepping stones toward success. Her philosophy, deeply rooted in her mother’s teaching to “regret what you didn’t do, not what you did,” has fueled her courage to make bold decisions, shaping her life and career in profound ways. Moving to Los Angeles during a recession, launching a fashion business in a subjective industry, and openly discussing mental health on social media – these were all significant risks that ultimately paved the way for her current achievements. For Kimia Arya, comfort is not an option; risk is the catalyst for growth and reward.
Arya’s fashion house, Maison Kimia, is based in West Hollywood, California, and stands as a beacon of ethical couture. Every garment is meticulously hand-cut, hand-prepared, and made-to-order within their atelier, reflecting a commitment to slow fashion and sustainability. The core mission of Maison Kimia is to create high fashion with minimal environmental impact, actively reducing their carbon footprint through daily ethical practices. Specializing in silk and silk textiles, chosen for their natural and biodegradable qualities, Arya’s designs are further distinguished by her in-house created printed silk textiles, derived from her original paintings and known as Kimia Arya Silk. Transparency and ethical sourcing are paramount, with all materials, including silks, sourced locally and ethically. Maison Kimia also prioritizes fabric repurposing and donates remnants to fashion schools, minimizing waste and promoting a circular economy.
In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, Kimia Arya Fashion emerges as a purpose-driven brand striving to lead by example. By demonstrating that luxury, quality, and style can coexist with sustainability, Arya challenges the norms of haute couture. Maison Kimia offers a range of bespoke services, including tailored suits, custom clothing, bridal gowns, and street couture, setting them apart in the fashion landscape. One of Arya’s key challenges was staying true to her vision of “High Fashion at Zero Cost to Our Planet” amidst industry skepticism. Despite facing numerous rejections, her unwavering belief in her craft and purpose propelled her forward. Arya’s determination to make couture more inclusive and environmentally responsible has shaped her brand’s identity and resonated with a growing clientele seeking conscious luxury.
Despite entering the fashion world without initial connections, Kimia Arya carved her niche through sheer grit and determination. Her work has garnered international recognition, with publications in major media outlets and showcases at New York Fashion Week and Paris Couture Fashion Week. Maison Kimia has become the choice of celebrities, high-profile clients, and stylists worldwide, and Arya has created wardrobes for notable talents like Why Don’t We band and The Smashing Pumpkins. Starting her art, design, and media company in 2016, followed by her first accessories line in 2017, and the launch of her eponymous full fashion line in 2019 at New York Fashion Week, Arya’s trajectory is marked by rapid growth and impactful achievements. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a strategic shift to focus on expanding her brand locally in the United States, reinforcing her commitment to building a reputable fashion house in America.
Looking ahead, Kimia Arya envisions further collaborations, broader media presence, and more red carpet moments for Arya Fashion. She is committed to collaborating with other artisans to amplify their voices through textile print designs and to continue her pledge to environmental responsibility through carbon offsetting initiatives. Aspiring to official recognition as an Haute Couture Maison by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), Arya remains focused on scaling her business while giving back to the community. Beyond fashion, she is dedicated to using her platform to raise awareness about climate change and mental health, drawing from her personal experiences and launching initiatives like her Instagram Live show, “The Daily Check-in Live,” to foster community and open dialogue around mental wellbeing. Kimia Arya’s journey is a compelling narrative of ethical couture with purpose, embodying the philosophy: “Don’t explain your philosophy, embody it.”
