10 Questions with Jennifer and Dorothy Chakra of Chakra Bridalwear
Designers Jennifer and Dorothy Chakra
1. How did this new bridal collection come about?
It all started when we felt that there wasn’t enough variety in the market for brides who wanted something different, dresses or suits that are contemporary and produced sustainably with upscale fabrics and would cater to the small weddings that are happening now.
2. Is it produced under the George Chakra label?
Bridalwear is under the Georges Chakra label with the same Couture design aesthetic and care in production and development.
3. Who does what job?
Jennifer: I am focused on the design and artistic elements in Chakra Bridalwear.
Dorothy: I handle operations and development.
4. What were you doing before you formed Chakra Bridalwear, have you always planned on working together?
Jennifer: After graduating Parsons in 2013, I came back to Lebanon and started working as an assistant designer for the Ready-to-wear and Couture lines.
Dorothy: I joined the Georges Chakra team 3 years ago as part of the brand development team. Georges Chakra has always operated as a family business so, when we both decided to come back and join, it was inevitable that we would work together.
5. Describe the vison for the collection, how do you see your bride?
Collection 1 explores a powerful play on femininity and masculinity and finding a soft balance between both. That is who we speak to and who our bride is. She makes a statement in pieces created with fluidity and ease and full luxurious fabrics.
6. What is Collection 1’s inspiration?
The idea behind our first collection was to create a line of looks that are quintessentially Chakra. The collection is at its essence, statement pieces that can be re-worn and re-interpreted again and again into different looks. What makes this collection so interesting is that you are not just purchasing a dress for one day, but something to keep, wear, and pass down. The trains are removable, so you want a simple lace gown, you got it. That suit jacket can be paired perfectly with jeans and a t-shirt. The soft lace, guipure and mini floral embroideries contrast with the structured satin, crepe and draped taffetas. Sleek gowns, playful mini dresses, and Chakra’s signature smoking suits are at the essence of Chakra Bridalwear’s depiction of a contemporary bride.
7. Any advice to share from your father regarding the new collection?
Our father has been part of this journey since the beginning and was our biggest supporter when we initially suggested the project to him. He continues to be an integral part of the team and our greatest critic pushing us to do better and not settle.
8. What type of looks do you offer?
The looks are modern but that does not mean shapeless, though we are fans of the oversized looks and you can see that in the cuts of the suits. We still focus on romanticism, of the idea of a bridal gown, and a wedding, and it is ultimately very poetic, it is just a new visual appreciation of simple, elegant cuts.
9. Where are you hoping to distribute the collection?
We want to see Chakra Bridalwear become a staple in the bridal industry and we are focusing to have it distributed in major cities.
10. What are the retail price points?
Chakra Bridalwear offers price points ranging from $5,000 to $13,000.
