Picking the Kimono Fabric that’s Right for You
There are so many ways to style a traditional kimono. But perhaps the best place to start is by choosing the kimono fabric you prefer. There is a large variety of kimono fabrics — ranging from silk to linen to cotton and even to hemp. These different fabrics will of course create different textures, and inspire different styles. When choosing the best kimono fabric for you, consider the benefits of each. For silk kimono, the benefit is a luxuriously soft and delicate feel. For linen, the kimono fabric is breathable and light. And cotton kimono have the benefit of durability. If you are someone with sensitive skin, silk kimono may suit you best. And if you’re looking for a heavier weight kimono, you may choose cotton.
When it comes to choosing the best kimono fabric for our modern kimono robes, you have plenty of options! Because of the heritage and history of silk in the traditional Japanese kimono, we offer three silk collections for our modern kimono robes. We offer Handpainted, our signature silk with the designs handpainted onto each one. Our Printed Silks, which have handsketched designs printed on the silk. And our Washable Silks, with printed designs on durable fabric you can gently launder at home. Each silk collection is 100% Mulberry Silk, a lightweight layer with a fluid, liquid drape. If you prefer a silk-alternative fabric, we offer Charmeuse which is a charmeuse weave with a polyester fiber. It’s lightweight, breathable, and luxuriously soft just like our silks.
Finding a Kimono Design for Your Style
Once you choose the right kimono fabric, it’s on to design. The beauty of the traditional kimono is in the pictures and paintings handcrafted onto each piece. These designs are full of symbolism and meaning. Some popular designs include the peony for prosperity; the crane for immortality; and the cherry blossom for new beginnings and renewal. When styling your traditional kimono or modern kimono robe, choose a design that has a symbolic meaning to you. Perhaps you choose a symbol that has meaning in your family or from your heritage. Or perhaps you choose a symbolic design that you want to help usher in a new era for yourself. Kimono can and should be worn with intention, so use your design choice to set yours.
How to Style a Traditional Kimono
A traditional kimono can be styled with some traditional accessories as well. Kimono are often worn with obi — a broad sash or tie around the waist. You may also style them with sandals and socks. Other beautiful ways to style a traditional kimono would be with a small handbag, a parasol, or even jewelry that has meaning to you. However you choose to style your kimono, let it reflect your history, heritage, and the symbolism that’s rich in meaning to you.
How to Style a Modern Kimono Robe
Just like with traditional kimono, your modern kimono robe has an abundance of variations in how you can style it. Your modern kimono robe is of course the perfect choice for lounging around your home, whether you’re getting ready for the day or winding down for the evening, your modern kimono robe can be styled as a dressing gown with an eye mask or simply on its own. You can also style your kimono robe as a beautiful lightweight layer to wear with a little black dress for date night or with a flowery dress for any weddings you're attending. Your modern kimono robe can serve as a beautiful, stylish jacket if you wear it open with the sash tied in the back. And finally, you can wear it as an airy, breathable cover up when you’re on vacation at the beach or the hotel pool. It’s a luxurious way to bring a little extra coverage to your swimwear look. Of course, there are endless ways to style your modern kimono robe. It’s the perfect piece for brunch, errands, date nights, catching up with friends, or even just grabbing the newspaper in the morning. There are so many ways to bring a little luxury to your everyday through your own beautiful kimono robe.
