There are so many interesting independent perfume brands around, so we've started a new feature, Indie Perfume Brand Spotlight, where each week we will question different brands to find out more about their brand and the people behind it. Next up, Kimberly Walker from Kimberly New York Perfumery.
Tell us who you are?
My name is Kimberly Walker. I’m a Jamaican entrepreneur, and owner of KIMBERLY New York perfumery.
How did you get into the perfume industry?
During my 10-year career as a department store luxury fragrance sales manager, I never encountered a fragrance brand led by a black, female perfumer. Motivated by the lack of inclusivity in the world of luxury fragrance, I began fragrance composition and chemistry self-study in 2015. After learning the science of fragrance, I decided to try my hand at creating my own, signature scent. Artsy eau de parfum, after dozens of trials and errors in May 2016, and continues to be my everyday fragrance and #1 top seller.
What was the first perfume you ever purchased?
Cool Water by Davidoff
What is your favourite meal?
Jamaican curry mutton with rice and peas, dumpling and plantain. Roti on the side is a plus!
Where is your favourite place?
New York City
Who would play you in a film of your life?
Nia Long. For years, I’ve heard we resemble each other and she’s a phenomenal actress and class act. I’ve felt connected to her since watching my favorite film, Love Jones.
Describe your brand in one sentence.
KIMBERLY New York is an unapologetically creative niche fragrance house aimed to celebrate art, culture and love.
Where does the name of your brand come from?
I wanted to capture the artistic energy of the city and pay homage to the city that showed me that it is possible to live your dreams.
Who are your perfumes for?
Anyone interested in trying fragrances that aren’t easily compared to any mainstream offering. My fragrances are for creatives, for artists, for people who can appreciate nuance and individuality.
Tell us about your latest perfume.
New addition, Diaspora, is a vibrant and proud celebration of diversity. This refreshing eau de parfum blends Asian pear, crisp Fuji apple, Jamaican rose apple and effervescent champagne to deliver a juicy burst of optimism with every spritz.
If someone wanted to try your fragrances, which one would you recommend they try first and why?
I’d recommend ETHER for men - it’s a slow-burning blend of frankincense and myrrh brightened by clove and fresh vetiver. Deep and long-lasting, the complexity of ETHER is undeniably sexy. I’d recommend Artsy for women. It a blend of crushed violet and sandalwood, red candied apple and marshmallow fluff. Artsy has been featured in Essence and Allure magazine as a must-try, sensual and long-lasting scent.
What is unique about your brand?
Each KIMBERLY New York eau de parfum contains a proprietary blend of 20% fragrance oil and natural solvents. KNY scents wear beautifully on bare skin and in the hair. Each scent offers an extensive wear time, and is safe for sensitive skin. Cruelty free. Made with sustainable materials.
You can find out more about Kimberly New York at their website.
About You
My name is Kimberly Walker. I’m a Jamaican entrepreneur, and owner of KIMBERLY New York perfumery.
How did you get into the perfume industry?
During my 10-year career as a department store luxury fragrance sales manager, I never encountered a fragrance brand led by a black, female perfumer. Motivated by the lack of inclusivity in the world of luxury fragrance, I began fragrance composition and chemistry self-study in 2015. After learning the science of fragrance, I decided to try my hand at creating my own, signature scent. Artsy eau de parfum, after dozens of trials and errors in May 2016, and continues to be my everyday fragrance and #1 top seller.
What was the first perfume you ever purchased?
Cool Water by Davidoff
What is your favourite meal?
Jamaican curry mutton with rice and peas, dumpling and plantain. Roti on the side is a plus!
Where is your favourite place?
New York City
Who would play you in a film of your life?
Nia Long. For years, I’ve heard we resemble each other and she’s a phenomenal actress and class act. I’ve felt connected to her since watching my favorite film, Love Jones.
About your Brand
I wanted to capture the artistic energy of the [New York] and pay homage to the city that showed me that it is possible to live your dreams.
Describe your brand in one sentence.
KIMBERLY New York is an unapologetically creative niche fragrance house aimed to celebrate art, culture and love.
Where does the name of your brand come from?
I wanted to capture the artistic energy of the city and pay homage to the city that showed me that it is possible to live your dreams.
Anyone interested in trying fragrances that aren’t easily compared to any mainstream offering. My fragrances are for creatives, for artists, for people who can appreciate nuance and individuality.
Tell us about your latest perfume.
New addition, Diaspora, is a vibrant and proud celebration of diversity. This refreshing eau de parfum blends Asian pear, crisp Fuji apple, Jamaican rose apple and effervescent champagne to deliver a juicy burst of optimism with every spritz.
If someone wanted to try your fragrances, which one would you recommend they try first and why?
I’d recommend ETHER for men - it’s a slow-burning blend of frankincense and myrrh brightened by clove and fresh vetiver. Deep and long-lasting, the complexity of ETHER is undeniably sexy. I’d recommend Artsy for women. It a blend of crushed violet and sandalwood, red candied apple and marshmallow fluff. Artsy has been featured in Essence and Allure magazine as a must-try, sensual and long-lasting scent.
What is unique about your brand?
Each KIMBERLY New York eau de parfum contains a proprietary blend of 20% fragrance oil and natural solvents. KNY scents wear beautifully on bare skin and in the hair. Each scent offers an extensive wear time, and is safe for sensitive skin. Cruelty free. Made with sustainable materials.
You can find out more about Kimberly New York at their website.
