But we also know that planning a wedding can be an exhilarating yet exhausting project. From choosing the perfect venue to finalizing the guest list, every detail plays a significant role in creating a special day to celebrate the love between you and your partner. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the extra anxiety of wedding planning, but it’s simultaneously so important to focus on using stress-free strategies to have the smoothest day possible. Plus, you’ll want to add a personal touch to the most meaningful moments of your big day to feel truly connected and present while everything is buzzing around you. So with all of this in mind, today in the journal, we’re going to share our top tips for planning stress-free details at your wedding. Know that from beginning to end, your wedding preparation can feel joyous, luxurious, and full of ease. Here are our stress-free tips:
The vibe of your wedding will be a reflection of your energy as a couple. So one of the most effective ways to ensure everyone has a great time is by deciding to have fun yourself! Remember, your guests take cues from you. If you're relaxed and enjoying the moment, it sets the tone for a joyful celebration. Whether you’re getting ready in your white silk robe and encouraging your bridal party to have an impromptu dance party, or you’re making the rounds to your guest tables with a big smile on your face, your friends and family will pick up on your vibe and reflect it back to you. Embrace the imperfections of the day, laugh off the mishaps, and cherish every moment with your partner, family, and friends. A stress-free mindset not only enhances your overall experience but also radiates positivity throughout the event.
Your wedding day is an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation to those who have supported you along the way and who will support you in all the years ahead. Consider incorporating acts of generosity into your planning process. You could gift the best silk robes to your bridal party for getting ready. Or perhaps write your mother or mother-in-law a special note detailing all the ways you love them. Perhaps you arrange for all your guests to have an extra sweet treat on their hotel pillow when they arrive. These thoughtful and delightful gifts not only make your friends and family feel appreciated but also serve as beautiful mementos of your special day. By thinking from a place of generosity, you create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where everyone is happy to be there.
Throughout the flurry of wedding preparations, it's so important to carve out moments of meaning and significance. That’s because with all there is to do, the smaller moments can easily pass you by. So to mark those moments, plan for them! One way our brides have done it in the past is to gift luxury silk robes to their bridal party as a way to ask them to be a part of their special day. It’s a beautiful way to say you’re so special to me and I want you to stand with me in this beautiful moment. On their wedding day, our brides have also gifted our best silk robes to their mothers and mothers-in-law as a way to thank them for all the effort it took to make the wedding preparations. Planning these gestures into your wedding preparation adds depth and even more meaning to these once in a lifetime moments.
An easy way to have a stress-free wedding day is to be wrapped in a cloud! Your wedding day is a time to indulge in luxury and pampering. Treat yourself to a white silk robe that exudes elegance and sophistication. Whether you're getting ready for the ceremony or lounging during the reception, a luxurious white silk robe adds a touch of glamour to your bridal ensemble. Choose a luxury silk robe crafted from the best silks and handpainted with traditional details to make you feel like royalty on your special day. A little extra luxury on your wedding day is well in order!
As you embark on this journey together, take the time to celebrate your love and commitment with a meaningful matching women’s or men’s kimono robe for your partner. Consider surprising your partner with a men's kimono robe that he can wear on your honeymoon or when you two lovebirds are lounging around the house. You can wear your matching luxury silk robes to make a stylish statement and also as a reminder of your special day and the love you share. Whether you're lounging together on lazy mornings or unwinding after a long day, your best silk robes become cherished symbols of your love and unity.
Planning a stress-free wedding involves prioritizing joy, generosity, and meaningful moments. By embracing a positive mindset, incorporating acts of generosity, and indulging in luxurious touches, you can create a memorable and meaningful celebration that reflects your unique love story. From thoughtful gifts for your bridal party to luxury silk robes for you and your partner, every detail contributes to an unforgettable wedding experience. So, take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the journey as you plan the wedding of your dreams. After all, the most beautiful moments are often found in the smallest details.
]]>Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, bursts through the winter and into spring with an infectious enthusiasm. It’s the kind of energy that fires up the spirit and propels us forward into action so we can build upon those foundations we’ve been setting the past few weeks. Governed by Mars, the planet of energy, passion, and assertion, the sign of Aries is characterized by its boldness, impulsiveness, and pioneering spirit. It's a time for embarking on new adventures, pursuing your goals with unwavering determination, and fearlessly asserting your individuality. So today in the journal, we’re going to use that fiery Aries energy to herald in our spring. We’ll lean into the astrological moment and bring out our own enthusiastic, passionate nature as we build the foundations taking us into the rest of the year.
Aries season typically falls between March 21st and April 19th, marking the beginning of the astrological new year. It's a time when the collective consciousness taps into the dynamic energy of Aries, inspiring us to break free from the constraints of the past (and the winter if you’re in the northern hemisphere!) and embrace the endless possibilities of the future (the spring!). Aries season energy may show up in the bold conversations you have, the gorgeous long black robe you’re adding to your wardrobe, or the big career swings you’re going to take. During Aries season, there’s a sense of urgency and excitement, urging us to seize the moment and make our mark on the world. It's a time for initiating new projects, taking risks, and embracing change with open arms. Our suggestion is to get dressed in your men’s silk robe or women’s silk robe and head out into the world in Aries-inspired head-turning style. Aries season energy encourages us to trust our instincts, embrace our independence, and fearlessly pursue our passions, no matter what obstacles may stand in our way.
Astrologically speaking, there are several key events and transits to keep an eye out for during Aries season. These can amplify the transformative energy you feel all around you:
To fully harness the transformative energy of Aries season, it's essential to mark the moment and set the stage for growth and renewal. Here are a few simple rituals and practices to help you embrace the spirit of Aries:
Aries season offers a powerful opportunity to harness the transformative power of passion, courage, and vitality. By embracing the spirit of Aries and aligning with its dynamic energy, you can ignite your inner fire this spring. So seize the moment, set your intentions, and dare to be the fearless, unstoppable force that you were born to be.
]]>The traditional Japanese kimono started out as the most inclusive garment of all time. It was a garment that was easy to wear and infinitely adaptable. Its adaptability was first seen in the design of the kosode, the kimono’s predecessor which was worn by men and women as an outer garment.
The kosode influenced the various pieces of the kimono, but differed quite a bit in proportion. The kosode featured a wider body, longer collar, and narrower sleeves. Instead of the T-shaped design that created the signature kimono sleeve, the kosode sleeves were sewn to the body of the garment with rounded edges.
The kosode was worn in Japan as common, everyday dress through the Edo Period, at which point its proportions had evolved to be closer to the modern day kimono. At this point, the term kimono came more widely into use in naming the garment. The word kimono literally meaning “the thing worn” came into use, and the kosode and the kimono became synonymous with Japan to the rest of the world. The style, motif, texture, material, color, and production technique of the modern kimono would all indicate social position within Japanese society, it would tell a story and place your heritage at the center of your garment. According to J Stor Daily, each individual kimono became, “the biodata of its wearer.”
Even as the kimono is the traditional garment of Japan, it has also been influenced by other cultural traditions in the region.
As the kosode transformed into the kimono in Japan, Chinese cultural influences wove their way into the pieces. Chinese sartorial influences like the quality of the fabric, and choices made in the pattern, threads used, paints, prints, and colors were used to define and present the wearer’s status. These artistic details were adopted in many traditional Japanese kimono as well.
The hanbok of Korea also influenced the designs of the traditional Japanese kimono. Both the hanbok and kimono were meant to be worn by everyone, as everyday, common dress. The hanbok relies on simple lines and can sometimes come in two pieces, a top and a bottom. But the hanbok itself was meant to be able to move in, with a wide cut in the bottom piece for maximum ease of movement. While featuring a slimmer silhouette, the kimono also used elegant simple lines in its design.
The common elements of this traditional Japanese kimono have been influenced from many directions to create a distinctly Japanese style. The elements you’ll see in the traditional garment are the T-shaped design which is usually hand-sewn, an obi or sash to wrap around the kimono, motifs of nature and beauty that are meaningful to the wearer, and they are handmade on materials like silk, hemp, and even linen.
The History of the Modern Bathrobe
While you may be more familiar with the rich history of the kimono, you may be less familiar with the history of the modern bathrobe. In the 1800s, modern bathrobes came into fashion to provide warmth after bathing as an alternative to a towel. While the earliest bathrobes were floor length, heavy, and even hooded to provide warmth, the bathrobe evolved over time to more of a dressing gown with a sleeker silhouette and a more lightweight material.
Silk luxury dressing gowns as we now know them can trace their origins to 5000 years ago in China. This is where silk was first produced and considered a luxury material for wealthy and prominent citizens. During the Edo period in Japan, silk dressing gowns were worn by Japanese samurai warriors as a symbol of their rank. Then, as time went on, the traditional Japanese kimono used mulberry silk, was adopted by women as well, and became a fashionable look around the world.
Later in the 17th and 18th centuries, the silk luxury robe was a dressing gown popular among the wealthy aristocrats and worn outside as formal attire. Just one hundred years later in the 19th century, these dressing gowns became silk luxury robes people wore at home.
Luxury silk robes have beautiful benefits as compared to cotton robes. While you may feel like a 20th century glamorous movie starlet in your luxury silk robe, there is so much more to it. Cotton robes tend to absorb water and are heavier pieces, but silk bathrobes are lightweight against your skin with a fluid, liquid drape. Cotton robes can be heavy and retain heat in the summer, but silk robes are breathable and lovely to wear inside or outside during the summer months. And now with the advent of washable silk, silk robes are even easier to care for and clean at home.
The Intention Behind Every Kimono Robe
Our modern kimono robes are a culmination of all of these compounding influences over time. Our founders Renee and Tiffany Tam have looked to their own childhood experiences with traditional Japanese kimono, as well as inspiration from vintage Asian art to create modern kimono robes connected to heritage while keeping the modern woman in mind. Our unique designs rely on a modern aesthetic with a gentle touch, allowing for a deep breath each time you slip into one of our silk or charmeuse robes.
The rich history and heritage that inspired these kimono robes is woven into every piece by talented artisans who are preserving handcrafted techniques that have been passed down through the centuries.
Your modern kimono robe is an everyday ritual, connected to the influences of the past. In every iteration these traditional garments have been a point of self-expression for the wearer, and our modern kimono robes are just the same. We hope every time you slip into your favorite kimono robe, you feel connected to the history and heritage that inspired these pieces, and connected to your own beautiful self-expression.
]]>Embodying an archetype can be a fun process! It’s a way of gaining courage and confidence through “acting as if” you’re a certain archetype. For example, if you go into a job interview and you embody the archetype Power Boss Miranda Priestly, you may find extra confidence and power where you might normally feel nervous. Embodying archetypes is a way to connect to those parts of yourself that you don’t always consciously access. So today in the journal, as we are moving into Aries season and spring, we want to inspire you to find your most powerful archetypes and consider how embodying them can launch you into the next phase of the year. So slip into your best silk robe, grab your journal, and start daydreaming about the next archetype you want to embody!
Archetypes, as defined by Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, are universal, recurring symbols and themes found in myths, stories, and dreams across different cultures and eras. They tap into the fundamental aspects of the human psyche, reflecting shared experiences and emotions. Exploring archetypes can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, offering a framework to better understand our behaviors, motivations, and relationships. Just think of it — each time you slip into your women’s long silk robe, you feel a certain way. Perhaps you feel confident, or perhaps you feel luxurious, elegant, sophisticated. You associate those characteristics with a certain archetype. Perhaps when you’re wear your plus size silk robes, you are feeling like a wealthy auntie who dotes on all her nieces and nephews. Or perhaps if you’re in a kimono with a dress, you’re feeling like a glamorous Hollywood starlet. Your associations with those archetypes can be found in your best silk robes, but it can also be something you conjure with journaling, meditation, sensory experiences like lighting candles, or even just the way you hold your body. Archetypes are available to all of us at any time, and how you access them just depends on what speaks to you.
Discovering your most powerful archetype involves introspection, self-awareness, and a willingness to explore the depths of your psyche. Here are some steps to guide you on this journey:
If you need a little more direction, we’ve got four different archetypes that are super fun to try out. With a little creativity you can embody each of these archetypes easily throughout the week. Consider how each of them could help you build on your foundations and achieve your springtime goals. Perhaps you need more of one or more of the other depending on the month. Here are four powerful archetypes to help you get started:
The Matriarch: The matriarch embodies nurturing, wisdom, and stability. She is a symbol of motherhood, both biological and metaphorical, offering guidance and support to those within her sphere of influence.
If you resonate with the matriarch archetype, you likely find fulfillment in providing care and support to others. Your strength lies in creating a sense of stability and security in your relationships. Perhaps you want to bring a little more stability to your relationships this spring. Remind yourself to embody the matriarch when you slip into your women’s long silk robe, and feel the gentle luxury of silk wrapped around your shoulders. Bring that sense of gentleness and nurturing to your relationships too as you embody the matriarch.
The Rebel: The rebel challenges norms, seeks independence, and values freedom. Rebels are often seen as non-conformists who march to the beat of their own drum, unafraid to challenge authority and societal expectations.
If you connect with the rebel archetype, you may find joy in pushing boundaries, questioning the status quo, and embracing unconventional ideas. Your strength lies in your ability to inspire change and break free from limitations. Embody this by wearing a kimono with a dress as you head out on the town. Perhaps you defy sartorial expectations, get a haircut, or take extra time off at work. Whatever you choose, let it fuel your sense of freedom and autonomy.
The Siren: The siren is enchanting, alluring, and often associated with sensuality and mystery. Sirens captivate others with their charisma, drawing them in with their magnetic presence.
If the siren archetype resonates with you, you may possess a magnetic charm and a penchant for expressing your sensuality. Your strength lies in your ability to captivate and inspire through your unique allure. Whether you’re wearing your best silk robe or sweatpants, you can bring the siren to every interaction by connecting with your charm.
The Artist: The artist embodies creativity, imagination, and a deep connection to emotions. Artists channel their inner worlds into various forms of expression, whether through visual arts, music, writing, or other creative outlets.
If you align with the artist archetype, you likely find solace and fulfillment in expressing yourself creatively. Your strength lies in your ability to translate emotions and experiences into art, inspiring others with your unique perspective. Our handcrafted plus size silk robes and women’s kimono robes are perfect ways to connect with your inner artist. Surround yourself by art and handcrafted goods to feel that connection to creation.
Enjoy connecting to these powerful archetypes!
]]>Whether you’re well versed in astrology or not, you may feel pulled by the collective vibe during the shift of seasons. Even nature is coming out of hibernation, with blossoms blooming, people spending more time outside, and generally “getting back to it” after a long winter lull. So this is a beautiful period to set a good foundation for the rest of the year. If the year begins with a little extra rest, this springtime transition is a great way to build a foundation before you really take off for the summer. So go ahead, get comfortable. Slip into your floral silk robe, grab your favorite pen and journal, and cozy up with our guide for who to build a foundation for new energy this spring and beyond.
Building a foundation for the rest of the year requires a bit of energy. It needs focus, drive, and determination. And the beautiful thing about Aries is that it’s a season known for its boldness, initiative, and an unwavering desire to conquer challenges. As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries represents the spark of creation and the impetus for new beginnings. You may feel more aligned during this time to tap into your inner reserve of courage, passion, and enthusiasm. It’s those things that create the perfect springboard for launching projects, setting ambitious goals, and embracing change. If you want to visualize Aries energy: picture yourself wearing your women’s silk robe or men’s kimono wrap, wind blowing through your hair, standing on the top of a mountain — arms outstretched and chin up to the sky. That’s the kind of energy to build a powerful foundation.
Setting resolutions in the dead of winter is like trying to wake up and do work at 3am! It can be done, but should it be? Unlike traditional resolutions set in January, Aries season aligns with the arrival of spring. The emergence of nature from its dormant state mirrors the astrological energies at play, encouraging you to let go, shed layers, and face the world with optimism and determination.
The symbolism of blossoming flowers, budding trees, and the return of warmth all contribute to a sense of revitalization that aligns seamlessly with the energetic essence of Aries. And it’s this sense of rebirth you can find in our long kimono wraps like our Cherry Blossom & Crane Kimono Wrap, or our floral silk robe of the Handpainted Cherry Blossom.
Aries is not known for indecision or procrastination; instead, it thrives on the momentum of forward movement. You can use this energy thoughtfully. If there are areas of your life that feel stagnant or stuck, use the impulsive yet invigorating energy of Aries to propel you beyond hesitation. Let yourself be 10% more impulsive and see how far you can get with that kind of bold action. Perhaps you go for a run as soon as you feel like it, instead of talking yourself out of it like you might have done in the past. Or maybe you wear your long kimono robe out for date night over your jeans and a t-shirt to give you an extra dose of confidence and style. Perhaps you apply for a job you’re not quite qualified for, or ask someone on a date! All of these proactive attempts will lay a foundation for beautiful things to be built throughout the rest of the year.
Journaling is a powerful practice with all sorts of benefits. Whether you journal in a notebook, on backs of random napkins, or you have a full Google Drive folder of all your deepest thoughts, the act of journaling offers so many benefits — especially as you are beginning something. That’s because journaling promotes self awareness. By putting your thoughts and emotions onto paper, you gain a clearer understanding of your innermost feelings, desires, and concerns. It’s this kind of introspection that allows you to create objectives and goals that are aligned with you, instead of following fads, trends, or other people’s desires. As you sit down to write, you’ll start organizing your thoughts into coherent written form, which clarifies your daily thinking and enhances your problem-solving skills. Additionally, the act of journaling often sparks creativity and inspires new ideas.
We suggest slipping into your favorite floral silk robe and creating a practice around your journaling. You can wake up, get into your men’s kimono wrap and journal a la fresco. Or you can finish up your evening skincare routine, and with your luxurious women’s silk robe wrapped around your shoulders, give yourself some time and space to self reflect at the end of the day. Whenever and wherever you journal, this self reflection is key for building solid foundations for your year.
And finally, if you aren’t sure where to get started with your journaling, we offer three prompts to you that will help you focus: What do you want to feel this year? What do you want to build this year? Who do you want to be this year? With those three prompts, you can start to find out what’s important to you, what values are at the top of your list, and your action items will naturally reveal themselves with every answer.
Happy building!
]]>Do you relate? It’s so easy to lean into that winter tension and feel like you’re not doing enough. It’s easy to feel like spring is decades away, not just mere months. It’s important to allow yourself to go through each up and down as it comes. When our founders Renee and Tiffany Tam set out to build the KIM+ONO brand, they didn’t want to just bring luxury silk robes to their community. They also wanted to bring a deep breath, a sense of calm, the ability to be gentle and easy with oneself. Wearing a floral kimono robe can’t always fix those tougher feelings, but it can be a little reminder to be kind to yourself when you’re feeling down.
So in today’s journal, we want to offer a few more options of how to feel more in the flow of life. The flow doesn’t mean everything will be easy, but it does mean you’ll be able to handle the waves as they come. Small acts like slipping into a silk kimono robe aren’t necessarily going to solve everything, but those little acts can be the gentle reminders that beauty is all around you and you won’t always feel blue. Here are a few ways to get back into the flow of life if you’re experiencing some ups and downs this winter.
This is simple, but it may not be easy. We are so used to trying to “correct” our emotions that we seldom investigate them. But the beautiful thing about our most challenging emotions is that when we investigate them, they tend to lose a little bit of their grip. Perhaps not totally, but just enough. If you’re feeling caught up in a blue cycle, trying to change that feeling won’t necessarily make you feel better. But perhaps slipping into your plus size kimono duster for a little extra softness, lighting a candle, and watching a rom com that always makes you cry (in a good way), could help you lean more into your emotions. Allowing them to be there is a great way to move through them.
You can process your emotions in any which way. From talk therapy to journaling to meditation, there are so many ways to dig in and process your feelings. Once you’ve allowed your feelings to just be, you may feel a little more strength to dive in and figure out why these big emotions are coming up for you. It can feel great to set a scene for yourself to go deeper. Block off some quiet time for yourself, drape your silk kimono robe around your shoulders, take out your journal and write what comes to mind for you. You can even just write a stream of consciousness and save it for later. Come back to it the next day and see what wise insights you had when you just allowed yourself to dig into your feelings.
At KIM+ONO, we believe that everyone should have access to therapy and therapeutic modalities. Your mental health is your health, and we want you to take good care. Perhaps you can talk with a therapist, a good friend or trusted confidante, or a co-worker you trust. Talking with someone can let out the pressure of negative feelings building up. After talking through what’s going on in your life, make sure to take good care of yourself. Draw a bath, listen to a comedy podcast, slip into your luxury silk robe. Whatever you can do to seal the practice of talking with gentleness, lightness, and calm, is a good thing for the soul.
It’s time-tested advice for a reason. Nature can bring so much restorative calm to us. We are nature after all, so connecting with it can bring a sense of peace and wholeness. Perhaps you slip into your silk kimono robe for a little extra luxury and take a casual stroll around the block. Or maybe you go for a hike in the mountains near your home. However you get out into nature, make sure you’re going somewhere beautiful, and somewhere that makes you feel like you belong. (Because you do!)
And finally, let go of what you can. And mainly, let go of all the things you can’t control. There are so many things in life that, try as we might, we just can’t bend them to our will. Life can be wild and winding, and the best thing we can do is to not fight against it. If you’re in the middle of a down period, know that you won’t always feel that way. Perhaps there are real life circumstances that make day to day life more difficult. That’s okay. Work on what you can, and leave the rest. Take good care of yourself. Sleep. Hydrate. Eat healthy foods. Give yourself a self care routine. Wear your floral kimono robe to wash your face every night. Talk with people who love you and who will encourage you. There are very few things we’re in control of, but creating an environment that gives us life, vitality, and inspiration is one thing we can do.
]]>1. Wake up and see the sunrise
There’s nothing more wonderful to us than slipping into your luxury silk robe, opening the shades and letting the first morning sunlight pour through the windows. Catching the sun first thing in the morning is a beautiful way to rise with Mother Earth. It sets the tone for the day, bringing a sense of deep calm and power to your intentions for the day. Let the Vitamin D boost your mood right from the break of day!
2. Watch something that makes you burst into uncontrollable laughter
Laughter is always the best medicine. If you need a little pick-me-up, turn on a comedy podcast or old sitcom that always makes you howl. Searching for laughter is an easy way to boost your mood and bring a little more levity into your day.
3. Feel the softness of your luxury silk robe against your skin
Your women’s silk robe is meant to be fully experienced, and that means paying attention to the way it feels against your skin. It’s 100% Mulberry Silk and luxuriously soft. Let it bring you extra comfort and joy every time you wear it, giving your skin a little hug and making you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.
4. Smell freshly cut flowers
Is there anything more wonderful than the smell of flowers? We love florals at KIM+ONO and have used nature as inspiration for every single one of our flower kimono robes.
5. The ritual of lighting your favorite candle
Let a little bit of light in for a beautiful spark in the dark.
6. Gifting someone else their new favorite Azumi Kimono Wrap
Our fan favorite Azumi Kimono Wrap always brings a smile to our customers’ faces. And gifting it to someone you love is a delightful way to delight yourself. Seeing someone’s expression light up as they get their very own Azumi is an easy way to boost your winter mood!
7. The first bite of cake
Need we say more?
8. A smile from a stranger
A smile from a stranger can go such a long way. Give one and you might just get one back.
9. Realizing the laundry is folded and put away
What a gift! Once you realize that chore is done, feel free to luxuriate in your women’s silk robe, lounge around the house, sip a little bubbly, and generally lean in to taking it extra easy.
10. Feeling the breeze in your hair
Allow yourself to get swept away with the beautiful feeling of the breeze running through your hair.
11. A hug from someone you love
This might be the very best feeling in the whole world.
12. A free coffee from your go-to coffee shop
Your little pick-me-up gets even better when it’s free! Make sure to share your gratitude with your barista and spread the good feelings.
13. Finishing the Sunday crossword
An accomplishment! Whether it’s finishing the crossword puzzle or your next video game level or even just your homework, completing a complex activity is cause for a little joy.
14. Afternoon sun through your window
Slip into your luxury silk robe and bask in a little sunlight falling across your face. Let yourself float easily into a winter night, knowing the longer spring days are on their way soon.
15. Hearing a loved one’s voice
16. The feeling after a good workout
17. The sound of birds chirping in the morning
18. The look on someone’s face when you surprise them with something special
Gifting a little luxury silk robe is a perfect way to bring some more joy to your loved ones. Seeing their face as they slip into their women’s silk robe is priceless.
19. Feeling healthy again after feeling sick
20. Slipping under your covers after a long day
21. Going to bed without setting your alarm
22. The quiet of early morning or late night
23. Creating any kind of art or beauty
One of our greatest joys is creating our handcrafted women’s silk robes. From start to finish, these are made by talented artisans who carry on traditional techniques no longer used by most manufacturers with handcrafted clothing. Each and every flower kimono robe becomes a wearable work of art.
24. A child’s smile
25. Any blooper reel of any kind
26. Finding a parking spot just when you need one
27. Easily making all your transfers on public transportation
28. Finding out you got the job
29. Setting a boundary that gives you more self-respect
30. Finding cash in your pocket
31. Hugs from a friend you haven’t seen in a long time
32. A deep breath in the middle of the day
You can find this through meditation, or slipping into your luxury silk robe, or just taking a seat in the middle of a long day. Wherever you can find a deep breath, make sure you take it.
33. That feeling of lightness after meditating
34. Trusting yourself
35. Feeling confident in your own skin
Another reason we made our men’s and women’s silk robes is so that each and every time you slip into them, you feel confident in your own skin, feel beautiful, and feel like a work of art. Because you deserve it.
]]>Spells, rituals, and practices all mean a similar thing. We conjoin the inner and outer realities of our worlds through a series of events that allows us to drop into the present tense and be our most powerful, most impactful selves. So this Valentine’s Day, we want to use this very common spell-casting practice to bring more love into your life. Whether you are attached or single, in community or spending time alone this Valentine’s Day, you deserve all the love in the world. Sometimes it just takes a bit of intention to connect with it. So in today’s journal post, we’re going to offer a few love spells, rituals, and practices that you can use to bring more love into your life, today and always.
For this practice, you’re going to need your favorite plus size kimono robe or ‘one size fits most’ kimono robe. You’ll need some beautiful paper, and the pen you love to write with the most. You’ll also need a candle and a song that makes you feel like yourself. To begin, wrap up in your favorite floral kimono robe and allow the silky material to feel soft and luxurious against your shoulder. Next, find a quiet spot in your home, light a candle and find a comfortable seat. Sit with your pen and paper and set your intention to fall more deeply in love with yourself. You might even hold the picture of yourself as a young child in your mind’s eye to generate some compassion and tenderness toward yourself. Then, once you’re listening to your music, smelling the candle, feeling your silk kimono robe against your skin, write a list of things you love about yourself. Make the list as long as possible. Luxuriate in the feeling of care, reverence, delight, and respect for yourself. If it feels good, once you’re done, fold up the paper and keep it in a safe place and read it again whenever you need a lift.
For this spell, we’re taking the idea of bringing more love into your life and extending it out beyond yourself. In a similar way to the first ritual, make this a quiet and centered moment. Slip into your men’s kimono wrap, or plus size kimono robe, or anything else that makes you feel romantic, sensual, and connected with your gentleness. Then, find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably – either on meditation pillow, a chair, or even lying down on the floor. Allow your thoughts to first fall on our floral kimono wrap. Feel the way it touches your shoulders and experience the softness of how it gently wraps around your body. Then take your attention to your feet, feel how they connect with the ground. And your hands, feel how there is energy flowing through them. Now meditate on how it feels to be in love. Envision how it feels to be in love in your mind. Perhaps it feels energizing or comforting. Perhaps it fills you with calm or deepens your breath. Try to be specific about it. Imagine how it feels to be in love, and imagine feeling that way right now. Stay in this place for at least five minutes, and keep coming back to it whenever it slips away. End your practice with the intention to feel this way once a day — even if it’s a small check in you do in the morning while you’re brushing your teeth. And then start to see how more love filters into your life bit by bit.
One important part of a spell is the physical and tangible component. When you can bring the mental energy of the spell through a tangible object, you’re uniting your inner and outer worlds. This ritual is a beautiful one to practice receiving love. Allowing yourself to feel loved starts with knowing what would make you feel good. Perhaps you are someone who needs time to themselves, so carving out downtime makes you feel good. Or perhaps you’re someone who loves gifts, so a new silk kimono robe would delight you the most. For this ritual, choose a gift to give yourself. Perhaps you pick up one of our floral kimono robes and even add on the Furoshiki Gift Wrap service to elevate your gift to yourself even more. Once you receive your gift, whether it’s time or food or jewelry or a floral kimono robe or a new meditation pillow, take time to explore it. Take time to enjoy receiving it. Appreciate the details of it, and inspect it from all angles so you’re really taking it in and not just tossing it aside. How you receive this gift will be an intention for how you will receive the gift of love. If you take care of the gift, it will only keep giving to you.
We’d love to know if you try any of these love spells! Let us know in the comments or tag us on social @kimandono_ and #swaythisway so we can see your love rituals in practice. And no matter how you’re spending this Valentine’s Day, we’re sending you lots of love!
]]>The traditional Japanese kimono started out as perhaps the most inclusive garment of all time. The first precursor to the kimono featured straight cuts of fabric, sewn together to create a structure that fit every shape. It was easy to wear and infinitely versatile. It’s that versatility that allowed the kimono to be worn by men and women as an outer garment. It was so common in Japan and nowhere else in the world because from 1603 to 1868, Japanese culture developed with almost no foreign influence. And the kimono was one of the key cultural elements of what it meant to be Japanese. While the kimono is the traditional garment of Japan, and the hanfu of China, sartorial influences and inspirations have since been passed back and forth between cultures. While both cultures, Chinese and Japanese, remain distinctive of one another, they have borrowed and built off of each other to create new and unique garments particular to each culture.
During the Japanese Heian Period, clothing similar to the modern day kimono was often worn with the Chinese-influenced hakama (trousers with long pieces of fabric for each leg that looked similar to a skirt), or a type of apron known as mo. As trends changed, the hakama became less popular, which meant the wearer required a different way to hold the robe closed. This is when the obi developed, which is a wide sash for the waist. Now, kimono are typically four single pieces of fabric called tans, hand-sewn into a “T” shape and secured with an obi, or belt. While the kimono is a Japanese garment, the cultural conversation between both China and Japan influenced how the garment changed over time to become the modern kimono we see and know today.
Our modern day kimono robes take inspiration from the best parts of traditional kimono. Our floral kimono robes feature a sleek silhouette and generous cut, utilizing the T-shaped design from four panels of fabric. All of our pieces are inspired by vintage Asian art with tranquil scenes. Our designs feature the beauty of botanicals and the soothing effect nature has on us when we connect with it. We hope each and every time you slip into one of our beautiful maxi kimono robes, you’re inspired to take a deep breath and slow down. We’ve added modern elements to these inspired designs: in our kimono wrap collection, we feature side seam pockets for utility and function. And all of our kimono robes and wraps can be worn inside as well as outside. Lounge at home in a little luxury, or head out on the town in a head-turning look. These modern pieces are as versatile and beautiful as you are.
]]>We love the traditional gift giving options of this season of love — red roses and heart-shaped chocolates are always hits for romance and friendship alike. But when you want to up the magic factor for your partner or loved one, there are a handful of ways to make the holiday even more meaningful with a little extra thought. From personalized moments to everyday luxury, some ideas bring a little extra beauty and meaning to your Valentine’s Day celebration. So here are five simple ways to make Valentine’s Day feel extra special for the one you love the most.
Sometimes we say “I love you” so much to the ones we love in an off-handed way. It almost loses its meaning when we say it so much! One way to make someone in your life feel so very special is to set aside time to make a beautiful moment and tell them how much you love them. Perhaps as they’re doing their wind-down evening routine, dressed in their long kimono robe, you can simply take their hand, look at them in the mirror and share your feelings with intention and tenderness. This can go such a long way and doesn’t cost a thing!
Of course we all know how we like to give gifts, but it’s sometimes more important to think about how your loved one likes to receive gifts instead. The five love languages are gifts, acts of service, quality time, words of affirmation, and physical touch. Think about which of those love languages sounds most like the person you love. Would they appreciate a gift of a silky floral robe or perhaps a walk through the woods holding hands? Would they like to spend time cuddled up on the couch with you draped in their floral kimono robe watching their favorite movie, or perhaps they’d simply like you to do the dishes! Whatever you think they’d love the most, speak their language and you’ll see how much it delights them.
While Valentine’s Day is a wonderful celebratory day, at KIM+ONO we think every day should be a little more meaningful and a little more luxurious. Think about gifts you could give them that would elevate their everyday. Perhaps you buy a candle in a scent that makes them feel calm and rested. Or you gift them a silk kimono robe that they can wear inside to lounge and take care of themselves, or wear out on the town for a brunch date with friends. Choosing something that elevates their everyday will remind them just how loved they are every day as well.
If you and your partner are like many couples, you have a budget that you more or less stick to from month to month. You know your needs, your savings, and then there’s your wants. If you’re parents as well, it’s easy for your wants to get crowded out by your children’s wants and needs. And if your partner keeps saying “oh I don’t need anything!” you can be certain there’s something they would love that they are just not buying for themselves. Valentine’s Day is a great moment for a completely unnecessary gift. Whether it’s a beach vacation or bringing the spa day home to them with a floral kimono robe, getting something “unnecessary” is a beautiful way to tell them they’re worth it.
Sometimes the most wonderful thing you can give someone is time and space. If your loved one is inundated with work, caring for family and friends, and the everyday responsibilities that come with being an adult, a little extra time and space can mean the world to them. Perhaps you present them with a beautiful silk kimono robe and let them know you’ll be out of the house for the day and to enjoy! Or book them a spa day and send them on their way. Or if you want to get really involved, schedule time off with their employer and present them with a flight to a warm place, a floral kimono cover up, and let them know you’ll see them in a couple days! Even just giving them an evening to themselves is a way to take care of them and show them how much you love them.
This Valentine’s Day, consider the ways you like to feel loved. Is there a way you can bring that to others? It’s so important and meaningful to bring love into our everyday lives. Even when we know how much we care about each other, telling each other, giving each other little surprises, speaking each other’s love languages, gifting each other beautifully luxurious gifts like silky floral robes we can use every day, and carving out time and space for each other to reconnect with ourselves are all wonderful ways to make each other feel cared for and loved.
Share with us the ways you and your Valentine are celebrating this year! And of course if you’re wearing or gifting one of our short or long kimono robes, don’t forget to tag us on social so we can celebrate your love too!
]]>In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's certainly normal for the spark in a romantic relationship to flicker and even dim. Whether it's due to the demands of work, raising a family, or simply the monotony of routine, many people in loving partnerships find themselves longing to break out of the rut they're in to recapture the magic that brought them together. The good news is that falling back in love with your partner is not only possible but can also lead to a deeper and more meaningful connection.
In today’s journal, we'll explore some practical love tips and strategies to remind each other of the love that brought you together in the first place so you can flow into harmony, alignment, and joy this Valentine's Day.
As you work through your daily routines with each other, it's easy to take your partner for granted. You get so used to how you function together as a couple that it’s easy to forget you’re just two individuals agreeing to work together. Nothing should be taken for granted, even though it’s so easy to do. To fall back in love with your partner, take a moment each day to express gratitude and appreciation for them. Acknowledge the little things your partner does, whether it's a thoughtful gesture, a kind word, or simply being there for you. Just simply saying thank you can be delightful when it’s uncommon! Go a step further and find a way to say thank you with a gift — a silky floral robe or men’s kimono robe is a wonderful way to say “you mean so much to me.” The symbolism and meaning in a handcrafted gift can offer a translation of your love when words don’t seem enough. Cultivating a sense of gratitude, gifting it, or speaking it out loud can foster a positive atmosphere in your relationship, reminding both of you of the value you bring to each other's lives.
It may seem counterintuitive, but with our recent work from home lifestyle shift, many couples are finding they spend much more time together than they did five years ago. If you’re a couple who spends a lot of time together, remembering who you were as individuals is an important step in rekindling your flame. When you fell in love, you fell in love with an individual who was separate from you — and that person still exists! Going out for a girls night in your maxi kimono robes, or spending time with your bestie at brunch gives you a way to connect with your partner in a fresh way.
After you’ve spent some time away, of course it’s important to spend some quality time together too. But instead of making it super serious and heavy, go for something light-hearted. Couples who laugh together tend to have the happiest relationships. You could choose something decidedly un-serious like heading to a water park together! Or, do something more low key — slip into your floral kimono robe and men’s kimono robe and put on some 90s movies that make you laugh. Head to a comedy show or go to a concert that you both really enjoy. There are so many ways to have fun and light-hearted joy together when you make it a point.
One of the ways we can easily become disenchanted with the one we love is simply because of routine! While routine certainly have their place and can be helpful for many people in many different scenarios, perhaps breaking out of the routine is what your relationship could use the most. Planning a surprise can be as involved or as simple as you need it to be. You can go all out and plan a huge vacation, sweep them off their feet, and absolutely floor them. Or you can simply gift them something special just because! You could gift them a floral kimono robe, presented in a thoughtful way at the end of their hardest work shift, simply to say — you deserve a little luxury. A surprise like that goes a long way in making someone else feel seen and thought of.
Communication is everything. Often, the daily grind can lead to a breakdown in communication, with couples merely discussing practical matters like schedules and chores or, of course, bickering. To fall back in love, it’s certainly necessary to work through issues. But it’s just as important to talk about what’s going right. Make a list of everything you love about each other and everything that you feel grateful for. You can make a whole ritual out of exchanging your lists — dressed in your favorite silky floral robes with candlelight — or you can simply sit down and make the lists together and chat as you go. Focusing on what’s right is a way of cultivating gratitude for each other, and an imperative part of bringing romance back to the picture.
Falling back in love with your partner is a journey that requires time, effort, and dedication from both individuals. Love is dynamic and requires ongoing care and attention as you meet the ebbs and flows of life. By committing to that attention, you’re investing in compounding daily happiness. This Valentine’s season, we’re wishing you all the love and happiness in the world.
]]>If Capricorn season was all about reassessing what is working for us, fine-tuning our foundations, and looking under the hood, Aquarius season is all about imagining new worlds and creating idealized expressions of our biggest fantasies. That’s why we love this energy for recommitting to relationships and deepening friendships. It’s so easy to get sucked into the loneliness spiral that seems to be so prevalent in modern culture. It’s so very easy to feel so very disconnected. So this Aquarius season, with rebellion, idealism, and rule-breaking energy, re-establish the connections and relationships in your life that bring more happiness to your every day. Do the things that fill you up. Reconnect with the bright and vibrant souls that make your days feel full of possibilities. And let that energy connect you from hibernation mode to growth mode. Learn how to deepen your friendships with these 4 techniques:
Everyone knows that you have to plan well in advance to actually get your friends together. With life, work, kids, and more, it’s very easy to slip into “next year we’ll do it!” mode. But use the rebellious Aquarius energy to redefine how you get together. Instead of looking to do a full-on girl’s weekend with your faves, try something a little more out of the box. Call everyone up for a Zoom hangout in your women’s silk robes and pull each other’s tarot cards. Or skip the weekend getaway for a weekday brunch while the kids are at school. Play hooky from work and dressed in your plus size dusters, have a true crime watch party during the day! Come up with a bunch of fun plans that will make all your besties feel excited when adding the event to their iCal. Planning something fun for the year will shake things up for you and for them, bring a little novelty to your schedule, and deepen your friendships with each other all the while.
Now hear us out: who doesn’t love receiving a letter? Even better, who doesn’t just adore a handwritten note? Writing out our thoughts and feelings can mean so much to the ones we love. So use the energy of Aquarius season to do something a little out of the box with your bestie. Send them a written note sharing all the ways you’ve seen them grow this year. It will make them feel incredible to feel validated and seen. To get into writing mode, drape yourself in your own silk floral robe, get out your favorite pen and start writing to them. You can list the ways you’ve seen them overcome challenges this year, or how they faced difficulties with an optimism that inspired you. You can recall all of their successes, or remind them of how they finally set boundaries and invited in abundance. There are plenty of ways you can witness them and feel loved. Go the extra mile and send them their own women’s or men’s kimono robe. You can add a note at checkout, or purchase DIY Gift Wrap Supplies with a notecard to add your own handwritten, heartfelt message. However you go about it, this small act of kindness and generosity is a beautiful way to tell your friends how much you care, and strengthen your bond.
If you’re looking to deepen new friendships, a beautiful way to do that is to simply tell them how they’ve inspired you. Write an email, drop a text, or comment on their latest Instagram post with specific details about how you’re feeling inspired by how they’re living their life or moving through a difficult moment. Letting people know how you feel — especially new friends — is a wonderful way to deepen your relationship. Aquarius season is for risk-taking and rule-breaking, so don’t act cool, just put yourself out there! It can be as simple as tagging them in a post of one of our women’s silk robes and saying, “Thought of you — this would look great on you!” Small acts of connection truly go a long way.
Novelty is a beautiful way to reignite your spark for life. And studies show that friendships are formed when you’re learning together. Just think about your high school or college friends – it was a big time of growth, learning, and trying out new things. And perhaps that’s part of the reason why you’re still close! Just because you’re out of school doesn’t mean you can’t keep learning. Invite your best friends to do something new together. You can shop for silk floral robes and learn how to style them, do an astrological reading, learn how to rock climb, take a pottery class. Truly, the possibilities are endless. If you mark the occasion with your plus size duster style, your women’s silk robe turns into an heirloom of friendships. If you mark the moment with a champagne toast, your friend date turns into a celebration of life. There are so many ways to bring meaning and depth to your friendships, all you need is the intention to do so.
We hope you and your friends have a beautiful Aquarius season of risk-taking, rule-breaking, and friendship-deepening while you do it! Remember to tag us on Instagram @kimandono_ as you style your womens and men’s kimono robes. We love to see your head-turning style and the ways you celebrate with the ones you love!
]]>There are plenty of reasons why it’s important to build a relationship with yourself. When you love yourself well, you become more resilient. You’re able to withstand the uncertainty and change that life will throw your way. No matter who you are, resiliency is a secret power to help you navigate these changes. Developing a loving relationship with yourself also allows you to heal. You know everything you’ve been through, you know the advice you want to hear, you know the tenderness or toughness you need – who better to give it to you than yourself? Of course it’s so important to have relationships, but don’t count yourself out of those relationships! When you can fulfill many of your own needs, you can find deeper connections with others because you won’t be looking for them to fulfill those needs. Instead, you’ll just be meeting them where they are. And that is a gift to both them and to yourself. So today in the journal, we’re digging into a big topic: how to develop a loving relationship with yourself. Slip into your best silk robe, grab your journal, light a candle, and let’s dive in.
The one thing you have going for you that no one else has is your inner voice. Each of us has a unique inner voice who is speaking to us all the time. It’s our intuition telling us to call a friend. Or it’s our gut instinct telling us we should start that business, even though we consciously don’t know how it will all unfold. Or it’s a clear voice speaking to us in life’s bigger moments, giving us instructions that seem to come from beyond ourselves. Our inner voice always has our back, but only if we listen to it. And because this isn't’ something that’s often taught, we’ll need to practice listening to our inner voice. Our best suggestion? Slip into your silky floral robe, and feel the beautiful silk against your skin. Look in front of you, name a few things that you see. Then, gently close your eyes. Take a deep exhale. And allow yourself some space. In that space, your inner voice may arise. Your inner voice is calm, it’s never flustered. Your inner voice has your best interests at heart, it’s never mean. You can easily distinguish it from your anxiety because it believes in you, even when you don’t have the answers. Remember, paying attention to a simple sensation like the way your black floral kimono robe feels against your skin is a quick way to reconnect with your inner voice when you’re feeling disconnected.
When you are in the middle of a difficult task or you’ve made a mistake, this is a great time to develop a loving relationship with yourself. Sometimes in life, we do mess up. Sometimes, we do fail. In those moments, how you speak to yourself will make a huge impact. So choose to say the words to yourself that you would share with your best friend. Speak to yourself like a friend. Wrap your metaphorical arms around yourself and say, it’s okay you can try again! If you really need a pick-me-up, write a letter to yourself speaking kindly to yourself and ask your friend to mail it to you in the future. Or pick out your favorite black floral kimono robe and send yourself a gift message on the packing slip. Find as many ways as you can to speak kindly to yourself, and you’ll find your loving relationship with yourself growing.
There is nothing more loving you can do for yourself than stating what you need. When we exit the mode of self-denial, and enter the mode of self-advocacy, a few things happen. First, you start to understand what you really need and when you really need it. Asserting a boundary — even if it’s just with your partner who knows whenever you’re wearing silky floral robe that you’ll need some alone time — helps you recognize what you are needing at that moment. The second thing that happens is that you start to establish self-trust. You’ll begin to trust yourself. You’ll begin to recognize that if you need a boundary, you will take care of it and give yourself the space you need. If you have never set a boundary before, start small. If your partner asks to go to dinner at one restaurant you really don’t prefer, mention you’d like to go somewhere else. This can feel like a huge leap if you’re not used to setting boundaries, but it’s worth it! Your partner will be thrilled you’re speaking up for what you want, and you’ll feel wonderful for having advocated for yourself. If a friend is asking too much of you, set a boundary. If your work role is burgeoning into unpaid errands for your boss, set a boundary. Boundaries are clear and they are loving. And they are a great way to show yourself that you will take care of yourself.
These are just three ways to develop a more loving relationship with yourself, but there are plenty more! Our suggestion is to slip into your favorite floral kimono robe and meditate on more ways you could take care of yourself. You inner voice will bubble up. You’ll have a chance to speak kindly to yourself. You may find out that you need to set a boundary. But if it seems like too much all at once, remember that even the smallest things like wearing your best silk robe can be an act of self care and self love. Lighting a candle, wearing a silky floral robe, or taking a nap are all ways to take good care of yourself, just like you would a child or a friend. Remember: you are just as important, and you deserve to feel the love.
]]>It’s a confounding idea that in the coldest, darkest days of the year, we would feel pressured to go out and make things happen. All of nature responds differently! Animals hibernate, plants lose their leaves, and even the sun holds back by going to bed in the early evening. If nature isn’t a go-getter in January, we don’t want to be either. So this winter, we came up with daily invitations you can offer yourself to find a deep, winter rest. That’s right — instead of making your mark on the world, get under the covers, sit back, take it easy for a while and prioritize rest. The to-dos and the goals will still be there on the other side of winter. But for right now, it’s a great time to slip into a kimono style jacket while working from home, or your plus size kimono robe gifted from your bestie over the holidays, or the Azumi Kimono Wrap you can’t live without, and simply rest.
It’s easy to forget, and difficult to remember. Especially in our hustle culture. So, we’re dropping into the journal today with a few daily invitations to help you remember that a deep, winter rest isn’t lazy — it’s just what the season ordered.
Hibernation mode should be completely activated during the month of January. After all the busyness of the holidays, you have earned some solid rest. That might mean saying “no thank you” to invitations to get together with friends out of town. Or perhaps that means you slip into your Azumi Kimono Wrap at the end of every work day to shut off your mind and any impulse you have to go outside. During hibernation mode, you can plan only one or two events on your calendar, and if you do, make sure they’re nourishing. Going to a movie or out to dinner with your very best friend one on one can be just the thing your soul needs. Whatever you do during hibernation, make sure it’s low key so you can get your reservoir of energy elevated again.
An easy way to invite yourself to slow down is to get reconnected to your senses. If you feel yourself getting carried away with the to-dos of the day, hustling into productivity, and finding yourself in your old rhythms of work-life imbalance, reconnecting to your senses can help you make a different choice. Whether that’s feeling the weight of your kimono style jacket over your shoulders, smelling the candle you have burning, tasting the cardamom tea in your cup, listening to soothing music, or looking out of your window toward the beautiful nature all around you — engage your senses. Reconnecting to your senses gives you the feeling of presence that can help you remember that you don’t need to speed along, it’s okay to slow down.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the rush of day to day life. You may rush as you’re taking your child to school. Rush to get to work on time. Rush to get home for dinner. Rush to answer your phone. Rush to send off an email response. Rushing ends up slowing you down — so to find some deep, winter rest, allow yourself to resist the rush. Instead of speeding along trying to get everything done, see how slowly you can go and how much better your work and daily responsibilities go when done this way. When our co-founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, designed these maxi kimono robes, they did so to help whoever is wearing them to feel like they can calm down and take a deep breath. Whether you wear your maxi kimono robe or not, remember that allowing yourself to breathe deeply, slow down, and let things be not so urgent will make you feel so much more productive in the long run.
Have you ever had those moments where you drift away from the present circumstances, finding yourself staring out the window toward a tree, or getting lost in a little daydream? While we might categorize that as unfocused, this is actually a beautiful thing for your creative mind! We need boredom. We need stillness. Maybe you’re sitting in your Azumi Kimono Wrap and all of a sudden you feel your body finally feel at rest — lean into that! Don’t try to fill up your time and your attention with more. Let the moment be empty and let stillness come over you. It’s a wonderful way to feel deep rest, without even needing to lie down in bed!
So much of our need for productivity comes from sources outside of ourselves. In our quests to be better mothers, sisters, partners, friends, workers, and humans, we look outside of ourselves for the answers. And while this is completely understandable, it may give you a sense of rest to just stop doing that for even only a little bit. Our suggestion? Drape your favorite plus size kimono robe or maxi kimono robe around your shoulders. Light a candle, allow yourself to get quiet. Meditate for just a few minutes. Let your mind get quiet, your thoughts slow down, and ask yourself a question. See what answer comes up and arises from within. Reconnecting with the inner voice is a way to establish self-trust and make every day a little bit easier by going with the flow instead of struggling to keep up.
We hope you take some time this winter to do the most productive thing you can do: prioritize rest.
]]>The reason rest is so important to us is because of those big dreams and goals. We’re not robots who can push day in and day out without refilling our tanks. We are humans, who need rest and care; we need intervals of downtime and introspection. Part of the reason we love our handcrafted flower kimono robes is because of the time it takes to make them. Each women’s silk robe in our Handpainted Silk Kimono Robe Collection takes 7 days to craft from start to finish. Every step is intentional, and you can feel it when you slip into those women’s silk robes. Rest and time are beautiful things, necessary for human beings who want to express themselves at their fullest and highest potential. So with that in mind, today in the journal we’re going to explore how to give yourself an at-home self-care retreat. Instead of charging into 2024 with power and gusto, we invite you to take a lighter approach. Walk into this year with intention and clarity, focusing on your needs, your self care, and your trust that there is more than enough time to accomplish the dreams in your heart.
An at-home self-care retreat can take as long as a full week or as short as an afternoon. But the first step in giving yourself an at-home retreat is to set the timing boundaries. This is important because the timing will let others in your household know what to expect. If you’re taking three hours in your at-home office, you’ll be much more likely to stay focused and centered if people aren’t constantly knocking on your door. If you live by yourself, it’s still important to set the timing! While you may think you can simply slip into your luxury silk robe and start the retreat whenever you want, we find it’s more powerful to set a clear intention for yourself. Block off the time, delineate it in your calendar, and keep the date with yourself. This kind of inner integrity is a crucial component of self care — it helps you trust that you’ll take care of yourself when you say you will.
Decide how you want to feel at the end of your at-home retreat, and then reverse engineer it to make it so. For instance, if you want to feel lighter and more clarity in your mind, you may make meditation part of your at-home retreat. Perhaps you drape your luxury silk robe around your shoulders, pull out your meditation pillow, and use a sound bowl to bring you into the space and help your mind quiet down. Or perhaps you want to feel energized and refreshed. So in that scenario, you might want to pull out your favorite gua sha tool so help invigorate your skin, and help your blood to circulate more. Maybe you do a few yoga flows and end by taking savasana in your flower kimono robe to bring you an extra sense of sealing in the energetic practice. Whatever you choose to do, focus on how you want to feel — not what you should do during an at-home retreat. There are no wrong answers.
During a retreat, you may want to quiet your mind and slow down to give you a sense of peace, but you may also want to stimulate your mind in new ways. Novelty for the human brain is a refresher. It helps us to see the world differently, opens up our perspectives, and instills a sense of optimism. A quick way to bring novelty to your at-home retreat is to choose something to learn. Whether that’s a new workout, a new meditation, or reading a book on a new topic that’s of interest to you, learning gives your brain a chance to both reset and re-energize. Slip into your luxury silk robe, grab your e-reader, and find deep enjoyment in expanding your mind as you rest.
If you’re like us, you may be used to filling up your schedule from morning to night. And that may be your impulse when planning your at-home retreat. But we suggest creating some blank space. If you are taking three hours or three days, make sure you allow at least 10-15% of your time for nothing. You may end up filling that time, but let your intuition guide you. Perhaps you are creating blank space after your gua sha tool routine and that blank space allows for meditation. Perhaps you slip into your women’s silk robe and sit down for a meditation and the blank space you give yourself after meditating turns into a bout of creativity where you’re jotting ideas down left and right. You never know what can come up, and that’s the beauty of the blank space. Let your intuition do the talking while your mind does the resting.
No matter when or how you get yourself an at-home self-care retreat, January is a wonderful month to prioritize rest and rejuvenation. You’ve worked hard, you’ve zipped through the holidays, before charging into the next accomplishment and productive to-do, take some time to get reconnected with yourself. That small reset will give you all the energy you need for the year to come. And future you will thank you.
]]>So in this week’s journal, we want to explore how to mindfully, artfully, and intentionally send out 2023 and bring in the new year with grace. From one year to the next, there is so much transformational power. But only if we harness it! When our co-founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, founded KIM+ONO, they wanted each floral kimono robe to drop the wearer into the present moment, to fortify them with love and self care they deserve, and to wrap them in the luxury that relaxes their shoulders and deepens their senses. Of course that is no small task, but hopefully the following ways to transform one year to the next, coupled with your beautiful silky floral robe will give you an idea of how to really make the most out of this transitional time of year. So first, let’s begin a mindful New Year by sending out this past year and make way for something new.
So often we do so much growing, and yet we forget to acknowledge it! A wonderful way to truly mark the moment is to acknowledge and feel deep, inner gratitude for all the ways you’ve grown and learned this year. Perhaps it was a challenging year raising children, or your family went through the ups and downs of aging. Maybe you were challenged at work, or feeling a sense of purpose. And yet, maybe through all of the ebbs and flows of life, you stayed grounded and kept up your self care routine. You draped yourself in your favorite plus size kimono robe, took out your journal, and made a list of gratitude every month. Or perhaps you sent yourself a well-timed gift from “future you” to remind yourself that you’re doing your best and you deserve to feel good, too. Maybe you grew by dealing with challenges in a new way, calming your temper, or even just starting a new night time routine with your favorite floral kimono robe and skincare method. However you grew and learned and changed last year, it’s so important to acknowledge it and see how you are getting better all the time.
Another beautiful way to transform from 2023 to 2024 is to let go of what you no longer need. It’s wonderful to let things go. While sometimes it can feel sad to move on from an idea, experience, identity, or relationship that used to serve you, there is nothing healthier and more conscious than thoughtfully and intentionally letting go of what no longer works. We suggest a practice for letting go. You can slip into your silky floral robe, reconnect to your senses, and take a deep breath. Meditate for a few minutes, concentrating on how your skin feels within your silky floral robe or the feeling of the floor beneath your feet, or even just the sound of your breath. Then once you feel centered and grounded, make a list of things you can move away from, let go, or otherwise release. Once you’ve made your list, burn the paper (safely of course!), and rest in knowing that you are energetically ready to move on.
And now is the time to move into the future! As 2024 descends upon us, beware of the need to be productive and hustle right away. While there will be a lot of blog posts, advice columns, TikToks, and Instagram posts encouraging you to hustle and get things done right out of the 2024 gate, our advice is counterintuitive. We believe that after a big holiday, and the surge toward the end of the year, it’s time to shift into hibernation mode. You deserve to rest. There is nothing more fortifying to your year, than starting with a full tank. And just like when you miss out on a night of sleep, sometimes you just can’t function without a full tank from rest. Choose moments when you can rest in your maxi kimono robe alone, when you can call a friend instead of going out, or when you can simply read a book instead of ingesting social media posts. All of these things are forms of rest.
One of the nicest things you can do for yourself is to allow yourself to change your mind. Why? When you do this, you are working with a growth mindset instead of a fixed one. As you learn new information (out in the world, or perhaps just about yourself), you can make new choices. As Maya Angelou once said, “When you know better, you do better.” So allow yourself to change, to learn something new, and to know better and better as the year goes on. You can practice a ritual for this idea as well to really make it tangible in your life. Perhaps you light a candle, wear your maxi kimono robe, and make another list of ways you’ve changed your mind. For example, maybe you used to hold onto grudges and now you’re more likely to release those grudges. Maybe you used to believe in fast fashion and now you’d rather opt for a handcrafted floral kimono robe (we don’t blame you!). Or perhaps you became a vegetarian, started practicing a religion, or took up meditation when you swore that would never be you. Allowing yourself to change your mind is a practice that will bring so much depth and richness to 2024. Make a list of all the ways you’ve changed your mind in the last year and then plant it in the ground. If you don’t have access to a garden or yard, you can simply plant it at the bottom of a flower pot on your windowsill. Allow it to metaphorically nourish what is about to bloom.
We hope your transition from one year to the next is as beautiful as you are, and as fulfilling as you deserve. Happy New Year!
]]>Whenever you can, you choose handcrafted items, with meaning and symbolism, that speak equally to tradition as well as modern aesthetics. You want your gift recipient to feel so very loved whenever they open your gift. It’s not about more stuff, it’s about quality, meaningful pieces that connect you for a lifetime. Well even if you’re in a rush, all of those magical points can be hit with one gift. Just because there are only a few days left until Christmas doesn’t mean your gifts can’t be filled with meaning and intention. You just need a little bit of insider knowledge to make sure everything turns out as perfectly as you imagined. So today in the journal, we’re sharing a few tips for last minute gift ideas that are sure to wow those final few people on your holiday gifting list.
When you find the perfect flower kimono robe for that last person on your holiday gift list, you’ll want to make sure it’s the right size for them. All of our pieces are ‘one size fits most’ with slight variations depending on the style, and then of course we do also have our plus size kimono robes as well. The product page will have all the information you need to determine sizing. On the right hand side of the page, you’ll see a dropdown menu with the word “SIZING”. Under that, you can find the measurements for every piece in both length and width. The measurements for the length account for the length of the piece from the shoulder to the bottom of the hem. The measurement for the width shows how each flower kimono robe will fit in the chest and hips. And remember, every single style will have slightly different measurements — in both length and width — so you’ll want to double check the sizing for every piece on every product page.
To determine the correct sizing for your gift recipient, you’ll need to know if they will fit into the maximum measurements listed on the product page. Our maximum measurements account for each ‘one size fits most’ or plus size kimono robe wrapping comfortably with about two inches of material on each side, give or take. So if the measurements for the piece you’re interested in say it will fit up to 48” in chest and hips, and your hips are 48”, you’ll be able to close the kimono robe with a slight wrap and a couple of inches of material on either side. To get more of an idea of how everything fits from a plus size kimono robe to a short flower kimono robe, you can check the sizing for each of our models here.
We know it’s almost Christmas, but our expedited shipping options make it possible for you to still get your black kimono robe gifts in time! Our processing team makes every effort to ship out any order placed before 12pm PST on the same day. So if you place your order today 12/20 before 12pm PST with 2-business day expedited shipping, you’ll receive it on Friday 12/22. Place your order before 12pm PST on 12/21 with 1-business day shipping, and you should receive it by Friday 12/22 as well. You can see all of our shipping policies here to make sure as you pick out the best silk robes for each gift recipient left on your list, you know they’ll receive them!
No one has to know you were shopping late in the game when you give them a gift card! Our digital gift cards mean your gift recipient can pick out the best silk robe option for them at any time. You’ll receive a beautiful KIM+ONO digital gift card in your email after purchase, which you can then forward to your gift recipient. A few extra notes to be aware of with our digital gift cards: your gift card will be emailed after a short processing time and gift cards are only redeemable online at kimandono.com — they’re not available for use at our brick and mortar store.
Whether you want to wrap it yourself or want us to wrap it for you, we have both options available for wrapping your beautiful colorful and black kimono robes for your gift recipients. Choose Furoshiki Gift Wrap service at checkout to have our team do it for you, or choose to include a DIY Gift Wrap Kit along with your items to be shipped directly to you. One big tip! Make sure you click ‘SAVE” and see the line item of the gift wrap added to your subtotal before checking out. Once you click save successfully, the wrapping option will appear in your cart and your order confirmation email. If you don’t see it, go back and make sure to save it. If you have any trouble adding your gift wrap to your cart — email our customer service team at hello@kimandono.com so we can help make your order perfect before it ships.
Whether you’re sending someone you love a beautiful black kimono robe wrapped in our Furoshiki, or simply sending a digital gift card to your loved one so they can pick out the best silk robe for them, your last minute gift is an intentional, meaningful way to say Happy Holidays. We are so grateful you’ve included us in your holiday traditions, and hope your gift recipients feel wrapped up in a little bit of luxury and a whole lot of love this holiday season!
]]>Amidst the bustling crowds and endless internet options, there's a special charm in crafting a personalized gift package for those closest to us. Indeed there’s something inherently magical about curating a collection of items that speak directly to your loved one’s heart. Creating a custom gift package allows you to infuse every element with thoughtfulness and love, ensuring that each item chosen reflects their personality, interests, and the shared moments you cherish together. It's more than just a present; it's a heartfelt gesture that conveys the depth of your connection and appreciation for the unique qualities that make them special. In a world inundated with mass-produced offerings, a carefully crafted gift package of handcrafted items stands out as a testament to the time, care, and consideration poured into its creation, making it an unforgettable token of affection during this season of celebration and togetherness.
So this year, let us help you get your gifts picked, wrapped, and sent to the ones you love with special care and detail. Browse our luxury gift package suggestions below, and have your holiday to-do list covered by the time you’re done reading this journal post!
If there’s someone in your life who takes their self care as seriously as we do, then our Jia floral black kimono robe and eye mask combo is the natural go-to gift. Our signature Jia design stands for sisterhood, home, and family. Match the sleeping mask with the 100% silk floral black kimono robe for a stand out gift that wraps them in self care they can wear. Whether they have a self care routine they already love, or they’re ready to start a new one in the new year, the beautiful design of this floral black kimono robe or wrap is a great way to show them they deserve to feel good.
For the friend who has everything in their closet, focusing a gift package on both handcrafted luxury and novelty is key. With a beautiful silk maxi kimono robe they can feel the soft, luxurious handcrafted nature of our kimono robe designs. Whether they need a plus size kimono robe or silk robes for men, our maxi kimono robes are a signature item that will wrap them in elegance. Pair this classic silk staple with a kerchief scarf they can style any way they please – in their hair, around their neck, attached to a tote bag, or even as a belt. For the sartorial stars in your life, the combination of silk and scarf gives them the classics along with a piece of clothing they can make all their stylish own.
Want to give a gift that also includes you? We like those kinds of gift packages, too! And our maxi kimono wraps are the perfect match. Grab your favorite style for both of you to wear for an update to the traditional Christmas Eve pajama gift! We love our maxi kimono wraps for a partner gift package, but our silk robes for men and our plus size kimono robes for women and men are all wonderful options to build out this gift. The main thing to do is to find something meaningful. So go ahead and browse our charmeuse and silk robes for men and women, and find something that says love and luxury.
We all know that the shift into new motherhood is a complicated one — and that is an understatement! One way to make it a little easier on the new mom you love is to give them the gift of luxury and remind them that they also deserve to be taken care of. Sending a Charmeuse and Washable Silk maxi kimono robe is the best option for new moms who may need to launder things a little more these days! You can find plus size kimono robe options that fit their changing body, and you can give them a little extra weight and warmth with a floral black kimono wrap from the Jia Collection to bring them back home to their bodies.
You know that one person in your life who is like sunshine every time they walk into the room? That one person you lean on for everything — the good, the bad, and everything in between? How do you tell that person how much you care? A beautiful handcrafted, handpainted silk kimono robe for women, wrapped in our traditional heritage-inspired Furoshiki Gift Wrap service is the best way to show how special they are to you. From the maxi kimono robe to the gift-wrapping, everything is handcrafted, handpainted, hand-tied, and hand-wrapped. It’s this kind of attention to detail and human touch that makes a gift package like this the perfect choice for the person you love the most.
Don’t forget, if you order by 12/20 with expedited shipping, you’ll get your packages for Christmas!
]]>During the holiday season, these floral kimono robes and wraps aren’t just luxuriously aesthetic statements, but they’re also versatile, comfortable, and offer a sense of self care. They’re the perfect gift for you or for your loved ones. And while it may be tradition to wait for the new year to round up what’s new, we couldn’t wait! We know you’re looking for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list, so we want to share everything that’s new from colors to packaging, to give you some inspiration as you make your list and check it twice. While you browse our collections, you’re not just finding a gift for the holiday. You’re finding a one of a kind piece of art designed with you (and your loved ones) in mind, as we’ve taken your insights, feedback, and requests to heart to make these pieces of heritage come to (modern) life. So check out what’s new, and let it inspire your holiday gift giving — for others, and a little something for you too!
The evolution of our floral kimono robes speaks directly to you and your requests. We truly feel that our community is like family, and when you speak — we listen! Many of you have requested reds and greens to be added to our collections, so what better time to add green and red silk robes than the holiday season! Our red silk robes in our fan favorite Handpainted Silk Cherry Blossom design is a luxurious and sophisticated wine color that allows you to make a bold statement while maintaining the calming, natural energy of our palette of colors. This red silk robe is one of the most requested colors — coming in second to green! With our Forest color in the same floral kimono robe style, we have an option that is a beautiful men’s silk robe as well as a women’s silk robe. It’s deep, rich tone is a unique yet classic take on our floral kimono robes. And adding these colors for women’s and men’s silk robes gives you even more options to embrace the comfort and luxury of your hibernation mode this winter. During the holiday season, you can wear these colors to parties and celebrations or while simply lounging around the house, inviting you to embrace elegance while infusing your festive attire with a touch of personal flair.
Another big request we’ve been getting — pockets! And so we have been happy to deliver. Our fan favorite Kimono Wrap Collection has undergone a significant upgrade—a thoughtful integration of side-seam pockets in each and every design. Beyond their utilitarian purpose, these pockets symbolize the traditional functionality of traditional Japanese kimono, and bring that spirit and ethos into our own modern floral kimono wraps. As gatherings and festivities abound during the holidays, these updates cater to the practical needs of our community as well, wrapping you up in a lightweight layer or jacket that is just as functional as it is elegant.
For years, we have sent out each of our hand-tied floral kimono robes and gua sha tools and beautiful scarves in recyclable poly-mailers. And now, they’re getting a little face lift. Our Charmeuse Collection will be hand-tied and placed in a reusable frosted bag. Our Silk Collection will be hand-tied and placed in a cotton drawstring bag, and both will be shipped in our recyclable poly-mailers. As our small business continues to grow, our goal is to keep growing to the list of sustainable items we use in our packaging. For our silk floral kimono robe orders now shipped in a reusable cotton drawstring bag, our revamped packaging not only protects the garment but also extends an invitation for our customers to engage in mindful living. You can reuse the bag for traveling or storing purposes and keep your women’s and men’s silk robes protected during transport. We’ve also added our Furoshiki Gift Wrap service as an additional option for gifting during the festive season. It transforms each purchase into a meticulously wrapped present, reflecting the thoughtfulness and sophistication of your conscious consumption and gifting.
Our Referral Program stands as a testament to the strong community that surrounds us. It's about fostering connections and sharing the joy of self care from floral kimono robes to gua sha tools, especially during the season of giving. We are thrilled to increase the Give $15, Get $15 program to Give $30, Get $30! Sharing this referral program with the ones you love means that you both benefit with a higher discount, and you both benefit in bringing a sense of love and care to your daily lives, making each day a little more luxurious.
If you have already gifted beautiful red silk robes, or men’s silk robes, or simply an abundance of floral kimono wraps, then look no further than our brand new Jia Collection which presents an exquisite array of gifting options. We offer this classic, signature design in Washable Silk and Charmeuse; featuring it in both a floral kimono robe and wrap style. Not only this, but the design comes in perfect little gifts for the stocking or for the add-on purchase: our Washable Silk Kerchief Scarf and the luxuriously sloft Sleeping Eye Mask. Gift some extra wellness goodies to the ones you love with our rose quartz gua sha tools meant to bring some self care to your skin. And of course, if you’re not sure which gua sha tool or floral kimono robe your loved ones may love the most, a gift card will always do the trick.
As we embrace the spirit of celebration and togetherness, we hope you find the perfect gifts to make your loved ones’ (and your own) holidays merry and bright.
]]>What does that mean exactly? At KIM+ONO, co-founders and sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam created their silky floral robes to help you feel at home in your own body. Coming back to yourself and being at home in your own skin is something people talk about as a nice thing to have, but for us, it’s essential. Grounding down and centering into your own thoughts and feelings is one way to enact holiday self-care from moment to moment. So, the tools and techniques might vary, but the result is the same: feeling like yourself even in the midst of busyness, challenges, and periods of change. So, this holiday season, while you’re spinning through the whirlwind of festivities, gatherings, and obligations, implementing strategies to reconnect with your inner self can make this time not only enjoyable but also rejuvenating. Here are five powerful strategies to help you come back to yourself and center yourself during the holidays:
Physical movement is a fantastic way to ground yourself and bring awareness back to your body. When you add thing after thing to your holiday to-do list, it's crucial to make one of those things you. When planning your day, set aside time to take moments for simple stretches or exercises. Whether it’s a short yoga session in the morning, a brisk walk during lunch, or a few stretches before bed, these activities can work wonders. You can even set a timer, slip into your short or long kimono robe, and give yourself a light stretch on the hour! Stretching not only helps release physical tension but also allows for mental relaxation. It encourages mindfulness by directing your focus inward, helping you to observe the variety of sensations and emotions rising and falling within your body. Even a few minutes of stretching a couple of times a day can create a significant impact on your overall well-being during the holiday chaos.
The monotony of routine can sometimes contribute to feeling disconnected from ourselves. Changing your environment, even in small ways, can provide a fresh perspective and remind you what’s important and valuable to you. During the holidays, explore new routes for your walks, rearrange your living space, or take your work to a different coffee shop. One way we love to change the interior of our WFH set up is by simply hanging a luxury silk robe on the back of the door with a hanger. Our silky floral robes are wearable (and hangable) works of art. Refresh your daily environment with your favorite women’s long silk robe in between wears to bring a little symbolism and meaning to your space. Shifting your surroundings can stimulate creativity and mindfulness. It encourages you to be present and attentive to your immediate surroundings, fostering a deeper connection with the present moment. Embracing novelty can reignite your curiosity and sense of wonder, allowing you to rediscover aspects of yourself you may have overlooked.
We know you well. You do so much for other people. You are always on call, even when you’re not supposed to be on call. You show up. So make yourself one of the people you show up for! Slip into your long kimono wrap, get out your planner, and allocate dedicated time for yourself each week. Treat it as a special date with yourself. This could involve activities you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s reading, painting, hiking, or simply sitting in a quiet place and reflecting. Make the moment extra meaningful by draping your luxury silk robe around your shoulders and disconnecting from distractions. Turn off your phone or any devices that could pull you away from this hard-to-come-by "you" time. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation helps reaffirm your identity outside of the roles and responsibilities that often dominate the holiday season.
Journaling is a powerful tool to reconnect to yourself. Starting a journaling habit, especially during the holidays, can provide a safe space to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It allows you to process emotions, identify patterns, and gain insight into your inner world. Consider setting aside a few minutes each evening to carve out some alone time, slip into your silky floral robe, get out your favorite journal, and jot down your thoughts, gratitude, or reflections on the day. You might also use prompts to explore specific emotions or experiences. We love Moon Ceremonies, Shadow Work, or even Morning Pages as great ways to rev u your journaling practice. This practice can serve as a form of self-care, offering clarity and serving as a compass guiding you back to your authentic self amidst the holiday chaos.
In the midst of external noise, reconnecting with your intuition can provide a profound sense of grounding. Practices like meditation, breathwork, or sound healing can help you tap into your inner wisdom and restore balance. Mindfulness can be as simple as wearing your women’s long silk robe, and noticing how it feels. This simple act of paying attention can have incredible effects on your well being during a busy season. Take it a step further with meditation, which allows you to observe your thoughts without attachment, fostering a deep sense of self-awareness. Breathwork techniques can regulate emotions and calm the mind, while sound healing through music or vibrations can facilitate relaxation and alignment.
Remember, the holidays are not just about external celebrations but also an opportunity to nurture your inner self and emerge revitalized as you step into the new year. Because like we always tell you, you deserve it.
]]>While the holiday season is one where we hope you’re connecting deeply with the ones you love, at KIM+ONO we know that connection and communication go hand in hand with intention. Each one of our floral kimono robe designs was crafted with intention, and it’s a value we live by from our online shop to our kimono store in San Francisco. We want to bring intention to everything we do. And the five love languages has helped us in deepening our relationships and truly communicating with the ones we love. So today in the journal, let’s explore how to use love language gifts this holiday season to tell someone special just how much you care about them.
Some people in life experience connection and love through gifts. Gift giving allows you to think about the recipient in a longer, more thoughtful way that requires planning and intention. For instance, giving the gift of a floral kimono robe means you are considering their likes when it comes to material, their aesthetics when it comes to design, and their personal journey when it comes to meaning and symbolism. Everything from our men’s kimono wraps to our plus size kimono robes are steeped in meaning, tradition, and intention. So when you give a gift like this, your recipient will feel it. For someone who receives love through gifts, this is a beautiful time of year to make your gift-giving extra special and offer a tangible symbol of your admiration and thoughtfulness. Embrace the beauty of nature and luxurious comfort merged into a wearable work of art so that your gift recipient feels wrapped in appreciation and tenderness.
Some of the hardest jobs are the ones that go unseen. For the people in your life who are constantly serving the family, simply doing the dishes or getting the oil changed in the car, can feel like gift enough! But for the one you love who feels love through acts of service, go a bit deeper this holiday season. You could pick out the perfect plus size kimono robe you know they’ll adore, and then follow through with caring for it, by taking it to dry cleaner or giving it a light steam when it could use a refresh. If your loved one loves a skincare routine, exchange that old headband with a brand new washable silk eye mask they can use as a headband and as an eye mask for sleep. Act as your loved ones assistant by giving them support and comfort with acts of service and lending a helpful hand without them needing to ask for it.
Sometimes people don’t need a gift, they just need you. For folks who receive love best through quality time, they want to know they can have a special moment with you despite the holiday’s hustle and bustle. Schedule a time with your best girlfriends for a night in, lounging in your favorite maxi kimono wraps. Make a whole plan for the food, the movies, the activities, or simply clear the calendar (and the house!) for each other so you can just vibe. Making it special by wrapping up in your favorite floral kimono robes brings even more meaning and intention to the get together. Whether it's a spa day, a movie marathon, or simply savoring a cup of tea, your maxi kimono robes become a conduit for forging deeper connections. The shared experience of wrapping up in your favorite floral kimono robes amplifies the feeling of togetherness and love.
The language of physical touch speaks volumes in expressing love and goes a long way to forge deeper connections with those most special to you. And for those you love who are at a distance, you can still speak their love language. Gift a luxurious maxi kimono robe or men’s kimono wrap that feels like a warm embrace. The softness of the fabric, the elegant liquid drape, and the feeling of luxury all create the experience of being wrapped in a cloud. When they slip into their women’s or men’s kimono wrap, it's an invitation to feel cherished.
And finally, sometimes words are all that someone needs to hear to feel loved. Loving words carry so much more weight for these kinds of gift recipients than for anyone else. While your gifts themselves of course speak volumes, heartfelt words add depth and meaning to every symbolic floral kimono robe. Whether you’re gifting a men's kimono wrap, a plus size kimono robe, or a maxi kimono robe, adding our traditional Furoshiki Gift Wrap service allows you to add a heartfelt message. You can express gratitude, admiration, or simply convey "I love you" through a heartwarming note accompanying the gifted kimono robe. This fusion of a tangible gift with the intangible words of affirmation that mean so much is the perfect gift for someone who loves to know what’s on your mind.
At KIM+ONO, we know that intention lives behind everything we do. From designing our maxi kimono robes to choosing which silks and charmeuse materials will make them feel extra luxurious to creating a checkout experience that feels effortless and easy, to wrapping up your women’s and men’s kimono wrap gifts in our Furoshiki Gift Wrap service, we know that intention and thoughtfulness is important in every step of the way. From beginning to end, we know you are striving to shower the people you love with love, and we want our floral kimono robes to help you do just that. Our hope is that each kimono robe becomes a vessel for love, a way to share your love, and a symbol of your intention to bring more love into your loved ones’ lives.
]]>So in that spirit, today in the journal we want to share one simple way to make holiday gifting a bit easier. This is where batching comes in. It’s a time-saving strategy that can transform your holiday shopping experience from a stressful one, to an intentional, joyful one. If you’ve never batched tasks before, gifting is a great place to start because there are so many steps. . So below, read on to discover what the batching technique is and how to use it to streamline your holiday gifting process. Plus, we'll share some tips on making the most out of your holiday shopping (for floral kimono robes and beyond!). So grab your favorite hot cup of tea or coffee, get cozy, and get ready to put the best batching plan in place for an easy holiday gifting season.
Meet the batching technique. Batching is a productivity technique where you group similar tasks together and tackle them in a dedicated time frame. By batching like-tasks together during a singular timeframe, you get to reduce your context switching. You can focus solely on one thing at a time. For instance, instead of toggling back and forth between your work website and a shopping website, set aside time to do one or the other. If you’re looking for luxurious gifts for the loved ones in your life, you could batch some research time to find the perfect plus size kimono duster, men’s kimono robe, or maxi kimono robe for everyone all at once, instead of jumping from gift to gift. Research everything all at once and take notes or create a wish list! When batching holiday shopping, you can also consider consolidating your online shopping to save time and reduce stress. Rather than sporadically shopping for gifts throughout the season, you set aside specific periods to focus solely on your gifting needs. This not only helps you stay organized but also maximizes your efficiency, allowing you to make thoughtful choices for each person on your list without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The first step to successful batching is planning. Before diving into the holiday shopping frenzy that may already instigate some feelings of stress before you even begin, take some time to create a comprehensive gift list. Break it down by recipients, jotting down their preferences and any specific requests they've expressed. Whether it's a women's floral kimono wrap or a men's kimono robe, having a detailed list ensures you don't forget anyone and helps you tailor your gift choices to each person's unique taste. It can also help you to see where you’re shopping, find ways to reduce packages by shopping in fewer locations, and make sure you’re purchasing handcrafted items that feel aligned with your values, and not just random items to check gifts off your list.
One of the perks of batching is the ability to capitalize on discounts and special offers! And if you’re reading this on the day we publish the blog post, our biggest sale of the season is happening now for our entire site! Many retailers do the same thing, so set aside time to sign up for the newsletters and email lists that will keep you in the loop as soon as those sales go live. For KIM+ONO, you can get up to 25% on everything on our site (including Last Edit final sale items!) like our signature plus size kimono duster. By thinking ahead and staying informed, your holiday gifting can go a little further without compromising on the quality and style your loved ones deserve.
Once your list is ready and your discount codes are emailed to you, set a specific time to go shopping online. Batching your online shopping allows you to navigate through different websites efficiently, comparing prices and reading reviews to make decisions. It helps you stay focused, and if you set a timer, you’ll be able to bite off the right amount of shopping. You don’t have to do everything at once! For instance, you might start shopping for a maxi kimono robe for your sister, and then come back the following day to find men's kimono robe options for your husband. By dedicating a focused block of time, you'll avoid the overwhelming and never-ending nature of the internet!
Our Furoshiki Gift Wrap service is an easy way to add heritage and elegance to your gifting and also save on time. Once you've selected the perfect maxi kimono robe or plus size kimono duster, you can easily select the gift wrapping option and complete the final touches of your gift without lifting a finger. Furoshiki is the traditional process of handwriting a gift in cloth. It’s a sustainable, elegant, intentional way to enhance the overall experience for your loved one. It's the little details that make a big difference, turning a thoughtful gift into a meaningful experience.
Holiday gifting can be joyful. It’s true! By embracing the power of batching and following these simple steps, you can make your holiday shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable. Take the time to write your list, sign up for discounts, set a dedicated shopping time, and add the perfect gift wrap service to ensure a smooth and stress-free holiday season.
]]>One thing that has always given us a sense of peace is connecting to our Asian heritage. That’s because the connection to ritual, tradition, and heritage can still our minds and bring us back to our values. It’s also because there is so much to glean from Chinese Philosophy — whether you’re Chinese or not. And this is especially true in trying to find peaceful parenting. Turning to the wisdom of ancient Chinese parenting philosophies can offer profound insights into fostering tranquility and harmony. When our founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, created these modern kimono robes, from our plus size kimono robes to our men’s kimono robes to our signature silk kimono robes, they were guided by time-honored traditions and the quest for contemporary comfort. Finding peace has always been equal parts looking back and looking forward to find the present moment. So today in the journal, we’re going to be sharing how a few Chinese philosophies from the Confucian and Doaist traditions, when applied to parenting, can bring a sense of peace that is so needed in these frenetic times.
For Confucian philosophers, there were huge benefits in simply creating a ritual. That’s why it’s always been important to us to create rituals around wearing our silky floral robes. Slipping into your women’s and men’s kimono robes isn’t just a fun way to get dressed, it’s a way to create ritual. And when kids see and participate in rituals, it gives them a sense of place and purpose. In Chinese philosophy, rituals are seen as a way to cultivate qualities you want yourself (or your children) to have. Even if every day is chaotic, the ritual of coming together over dinner is enough to reset the tone of the day for a peaceful evening. Or perhaps you and your little one have a ritual of simply pausing before each meal to remember your ancestors, as Confucious himself did. For both kids and parents, rituals can be the connective tissue bringing you back to your center.
One thing we love about all of our charmeuse and silk kimono robes is that they will look unique on everyone. They bring out your unique qualities and nature. And this is a Daoist philosophy that leads toward more inner peace for you and your children, as well. Finding joy in what you do well — even if it’s not what everyone else is doing — is a way to feel peaceful, connected, and grounded in who you are. Teach your children that they don’t have to be like everyone else. And show them an example of that Daoist principle by following the beat of your own drum too. Simply giving yourself comfort and beauty when you want it — whether it’s in sipping a delicious aromatic tea or slipping into a silky floral robe — is a way to reaffirm your inner spirit and allow you the peace you need to approach the busy days of parenting. The added bonus is that when your children see you unapologetically being yourself, they’ll want to be themselves too.
Confucian philosophers taught that parents and children are highly attuned to each other. When you are feeling off, disconnected from your spirit, run down, or otherwise crummy, your kids know. And how you deal with that feeling is also something your kids pick up on. The Confucian philosophers taught that self sacrifice for the benefit of your children is not an actual benefit to them. Kids need to see you take care of yourself so that they can learn how to take care of themselves too. Slipping into your favorite maxi kimono robe and heading out for a night with your girlfriends is in fact a beautiful thing for your children to see — even if they protest in the moment! You’ll come back in a more peaceful state of mind, they’ll understand that relationships outside the family are important, and you get a chance for everyone to breathe and metaphorically stretch their wings.
The Daoist philosophers recognized that life is filled with imperfect moments and sometimes even misfortune, but they also knew that if faced with openness, life’s challenges can be turned into strength. When you look at everyday as a challenge to be endured, it’s different than looking at it as a challenge to strengthen you. There may be times you want to curl up in your silk kimono robe and shut out the world — and believe us, those times are valid! — but in addition to those moments, you will rise and your kids will see you rise. Approach the challenging times with openness, knowing there is something to learn, something to strengthen you, or something to gain when going through the toughest moments. It doesn’t mean they don’t feel bad, and it doesn’t mean everything is okay. But it will mean that you can trust yourself to get through them when those moments do come. And if your kids know you can get through challenges, they will feel equipped to get through challenges too.
There are many Chinese philosophies to help us find peace during parenting. And at different stages of our kids’ development, we’ll reach for different understandings. But we hope these few philosophies can help guide you on a journey toward inner peace and emotional well-being while doing the hardest job of all: parenting.
]]>In fact, our signature maxi kimono wrap is actually named the Jia Kimono Wrap as well! That’s because the word represents home, family, and sisterhood. It’s the design gracing the back mural in our San Francisco kimono store, reminding all who enter that they’re welcome here and they’re a part of our family. With so many shared values and a common mission, we were thrilled to sit down with Leona and learn more about her beautiful, handcrafted Jia candle company.
The interview is below, but a quick note before you read on! We’re hosting a giveaway with JIĀ Home Co. 11/1/23 through 11/4/23. You can simply add your email address to be entered into a giveaway of our Jia Kimono Wrap and a $175 gift certificate to JIĀ Home Co.
Creating our candles is deeply personal and creative for me. It's a journey that starts with nostalgia, the foundation for the candle making process, where I draw inspiration from my own experiences and upbringing.
For instance, one of our core candles, Tea Talk is inspired from tea poured during dim sum. The scent has delicate notes of jasmine, floral violets and sweet honeysuckle - similar to the aromas of a freshly brewed pot of tea from a dim sum restaurant. The name "Tea Talk" not only represents the aromatic essence of the tea served but also the idea of gossip and conversation at the table during dim sum.
The act of pouring candles has evolved into a meditative experience for me. From the beginning of choosing a scent to pouring the wax, letting it cool, watching it take shape - it's a real journey that allows me to clear my mind and immerse myself in the present moment of a single task.
The name JIĀ is rooted by the concept of home and family. The word JIĀ translates to "home/family" in Chinese and is a reflection of the scents and experiences I had growing up in an Asian household. As a first-generation Chinese American, my home was filled with aromas that aren't typical in Western households such as vanilla, cupcake, strawberry and chocolate. Instead, I was surrounded with aromas like dried herbs, incense, and spices that were fundamental to my cultural background. The name JIĀ is a nod to the unique and meaningful scents that are associated with the home and family of my life.
Suggesting scents to our customers is a highly subjective process. We start by understanding personal preferences. We ask questions like, "what kind of scents do you naturally gravitate towards?" This helps us get an idea of whether they prefer florals, wood, earth, fruit or gourmand fragrances.
Additionally, we explore the customer's mood and/or vibe they're trying to create in their space. Are they looking for something calming like lavender and sandalwood to promote a sense of tranquility? Or are they seeking a more uplifting and invigorating scent, like yuzu and ginger to energize their surroundings? By understanding their scent preference and the ambiance they want to achieve we can offer suggestions that resonate with their goals.
My mission for the brand has always been to fill the gap of Asian scents missing from the mass market, but additionally I also hope that each of our candles brings a sense of joy and happiness. I want our customers to not only appreciate the cultural significance and uniqueness of the scents but to thoroughly enjoy and find comfort in our candles.
One of the most surprising and rewarding aspects of creating JIĀ has been the genuine and heartfelt connections that we see amongst our customers. When JIĀ was built, I had a vision of sharing my love for Asian scented candles, but I really didn't anticipate the extent to which our customers would also resonate with as a community.
JIĀ has had an online presence since 2021, and recently opened a workshop studio in Berkeley where guests are encouraged to create scents that are reminiscent of their own upbringing. It's been inspiring to hear and learn about our customers' stories and experiences through scent.
Thank you so much to Leona for letting us peek in on her handcrafted creative process. We love celebrating other women-owned businesses, sharing AAPI stories, and uplifting the creative vision of friends in San Francisco and beyond. We hope you’ll enter the giveaway, running until November 4, 2023. And if you’re in the Bay Area, stop by JIĀ and KIM+ONO to say hello! ]]>Intuitive, mindful walking is a way to reconnect with the part of your mind that often goes unconscious. Why is this important? Well your unconscious mind is driving your actions, whether you’re aware of it or not. Perhaps you’re working through a challenging time in your life and you need some answers. Or maybe you have a new job opportunity and you don’t know if you should go for it. Maybe you’re just feeling a sense of sadness or malaise, and you want to know how to enliven yourself again. Intuitive, mindful walks can help with all of this.
When our founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, created their modern maxi kimono robes, they wanted to bring more than just beauty to life. They wanted to bring tradition, ritual, meaning, symbolism, and calm into the lives of everyone who slips into one of these luxury silk robes. Their mission has always been to empower the modern woman, and make sure she knows that she matters. So in today’s journal, we’ll share what intuitive walking looks like, and how to use it to bring more clarity, calm, and compassion into your everyday life.
Intuitive walking is very much what it sounds like. Some people refer to it as simply following your gut on which way to turn as you meander through town or nature. Some people refer to it as a casual way to get in tune with your thoughts. For our purposes, we think of intuitive walking as a sort of combination of the two. On intuitive walks, you initiate the walk by making a ritual out of beginning and ending the walk, looking at the world as if it has signs and symbols to offer you, interpreting those symbols in a way that gives you clarity within your own life. We’ve always said that you can wear your luxury silk robe out on the town or lounging at home, and wearing it on an intuitive walk is one way to blend your physical sensations with your mental revelations.
One important factor of your intuitive walk is creating a ritual around it. It can be very simple, and it doesn’t need to be complicated or elaborate. You simply need to create a boundary, or a threshold. Know when you begin and know when you end the experience. For instance, maybe the boundary is as soon as you step outside of your house. Or perhaps the boundary is when you turn left onto that one street down the block. Maybe the boundary is created when you slip into your Azumi Kimono Wrap and when you slip it off and hang it on a hanger is when you cross back over that threshold. Creating the boundary lets your awareness know when the adventure begins and ends, and it frees up your mind to listen to your intuition.
If you’ve read any of our journal articles before, then you know we’re big on intentionality! The more intention you set at the beginning of your intuitive walk, the more you’re going to get out of it. You can even make a ritual or tradition out of setting your intention for your walk. Drape your favorite Haruka or Azumi Kimono Wrap around your shoulders and grab your favorite journal. List out the questions you want to explore on your walk. Perhaps you’re wondering about a relationship, or you have a question about a creative project. Maybe you’re just wondering what a dream means or where you should put your focus for the end of the year. List out all the questions you have and consider them before you go.
And now, the fun part — the walk! Once you have created your boundary and set your intention, it’s time to head out on your intuitive walk and connect with your answers. On an intuitive walk, your answers will appear when you allow your mind to quiet down. Let yourself look at nature, absorb the present moment, and stay open. If you’re wearing your silky plus size kimono robe, allow yourself to really feel the softness of the silk. If you’re wearing a maxi kimono robe, allow your body to sway with the flow of the long drape. Take some deep breaths. Find yourself gazing toward nature. All of these things can bring you into the present moment and allow you to receive intuitive hits about the intentions and questions you set out with. You may be thinking about one of your questions and a car drives by playing a song whose lyrics give you an answer. You may look up into a tree and see a cardinal, which might hold symbolic meaning for you. Once you finish your walk, come home and write down a reflection of the walk. You can even call a friend and tell them what you discovered, allow them to reflect it back to you, and see what intuitive guidance you can receive when filtered through a friend.
While there are plenty of things you can do to find answers, intuitive walks are perhaps the most interesting and beneficial. Not only will they improve your physical health, but they give you a glimpse of your own intuitive nature. They are affirmation that you are indeed everything you need.
]]>However, somewhere between reaching out to feel more connected and actually feeling more connected is a big gap to cross. And sometimes what we really need is to both feel like we can tune into ourselves and connect with others in a real and human way. Enter: The Book Club! There is no better feeling than sitting with friends IRL, talking about a good book, or perhaps luxuriously lounging in your favorite luxury silk robe to feel rejuvenated. An in-person book club gives you both personal attunement and social connection. It opens up your brain and imagination to new ideas and gives you space to share and listen to others’ ideas. It’s the social part of social media that feels good, while also giving you a chance to keep yourself grounded in real life. So today in the journal, we’re going to help you with this rebellious act of hopping offline and into the real world of a social book club in just a few easy steps.
The most important first step in starting your book club (or anything for that matter!) is to define your why. Why do you want to start a book club? Is it to meet new people? Is it for an excuse to wear your favorite plus size long kimono duster to an event? Is it to keep you accountable as you work you way through your reading list? It could be for any number of reasons! It could even be because you never considered it before and you want to try something new. Sit down (draped in your plus size long kimono duster if you like) and journal about the reasons why you’d like to start a book club. Get to the heart of what’s appealing to you and what you hope to gain from and give to it. Your why will help you determine the rest of your decisions. Your why is the thing that will act as a north star and make this a super fun process that is gratifying at the same time.
Your why will naturally influence the next step of starting your book club — determining the vibe and feel of it. Perhaps you really want to learn something new each time you read a book, so you decide to make it a very formal and intellectual feel, asking members to do some additional research before attending. However, maybe you want it to be all about nourishment and relaxation. Perhaps you slip into your green kimono robe each time, ask your friends to wear their luxury silk robes, and make dinner for them. Maybe the book discussion runs secondary to the relaxing vibe. Whatever feels best to you, decide on the vibe ahead of time and let people know what to expect.
Now it’s time to bring people together! Invite your friends into the book club and then, depending on how large you’d like the group to be, start bringing in new members. You can do this a number of ways — post on social, showing photos of you and your friends at the book club in your gorgeous luxury silk robes having a grand old time. Ask the local bookstore or library to share your book club flyers with patrons. Or even ask current book club members to bring a friend once a month or so. The beautiful thing about your book club is there are so many ways to invite people in and create an ever-evolving and inclusive community.
You can go about this several different ways, so choose which one is the most fun for you! You can circle up your girlfriends, clad in your beautiful long kimono robes, cocktails or mocktails in hand, and decide once a quarter what your reads will be. You can circle up with just yourself in your beautiful long kimono robe and choose for the group! You can also leave it to chance, or let members suggest during the actual club meetings themselves. Any way you go about it, make sure it’s fun! And decide your book-picking strategy before you start getting together so that everyone knows the expectations and you can find something that works great for the group.
Now comes the actual discussion! It’s not just the gorgeous long kimono robes you may be wearing to lounge and discuss your favorite novel — it’s the questions. Choosing the right questions or discussion strategy is key to making the book club a great time. Decide if you want to have an intellectual chat, or if you’re willing to veer off into all sorts of other conversations, or perhaps a combination of both. Decide how you will get back on track if you venture into other topics. Or decide that it’s more than fine to go down a different rabbit hole from where you began. Make sure that the one thing you decide on is guidelines. Make sure everyone knows what to expect out of discussions, how to keep things respectful if contentious topics come up, and what is expected of each book club member in terms of contributing to the conversation.
And don’t forget — have fun! If you create a book club with a luxury silk robe dress code, make sure you snap photos and share with us so we can see and celebrate your club!
]]>For us, there are many ways to do this! It’s not just about writing to-do lists and setting follow up reminders. It’s also about enacting the practices that will help us feel grounded and balanced when life inevitably (as it always does) shakes it up. Balance is a verb, not a noun. It’s something we do over and over again, each time coming back through a center of balance, not to stay there stagnant, but to move through it. We are adaptable and flexible, and this is what allows us to maintain our balance in chaotic and perhaps a bit over-scheduled times. In other words, movement through balance is how we maintain it. So whether it’s bringing your favorite flower kimono robe out to play each day, or figuring out the right diet of media consumption, there are things you can do to keep bringing yourself, and your routine, into balance this fall season. Here’s how to bring your life and routine into balance.
In Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way, she advocates readers to take themselves on an Artist Date once a week. This is a date to reinvigorate one’s connection to their artistry with play and creativity. We love this concept and can apply it to non-artists as well. Schedule a date with yourself, once a week, for self reflection. This can be therapy, or perhaps simply slipping into one of our silk robes for men and women to journal, or perhaps a walk around the block during golden hour. No matter what the date is, make it. Taking time to self reflect can help you solidify how you’ve been feeling, help find solutions to problems you’ve been having, or even inspire you to reconnect with nature, your family, or yourself. Self reflection goes perfectly with a maxi kimono robe, but it can be as simple as waking up and taking five minutes to breathe deeply. Make a once a week date to self reflect, and find your mind quieted and brought back into balance.
Speaking of how you wake up — one way to ensure you find balance each day is by finding balance each night. Consider how you’re sleeping. Are you feeling well rested? Do you feel like you could sleep forever? Do you feel like you haven’t slept in years? The best way to feel your best and most balanced self is to make sure you’re supplying your physical body with rest. If you’re having trouble winding down at the end of the day, coach your mind to expect sleep. Slip into your maxi kimono robe and wash your face. Light a candle, read a book, and disconnect from the screen. Sometimes balance is about hearing our inner voice and needs, and being able to respond to those needs in real time. If you allow yourself to rest and fall deeply into sleep, it’s easier to find balance during the busyness of the season.
While we love a holiday feast, we also know that what we eat has as much to do with our inner balance as our sleep and mindset. The foods and drinks we consume have so much power over our mood, our health, and our outlook. So consider how you’re feeding yourself to come back into balance. Consider making a ritual out of preparing food for the week. Think of it as an act of reverence for your body and mind. Slip into your flower kimono robe and choose some fresh fruits and vegetables to prepare for the week. Think through meal plans that allow you to feel fully nourished and energized by the end of them. Our senses do so much for us. This is one reason we created our silk robes for men and women — because the sensation of these maxi kimono robes can feel incredible. So too can food.
One quick way to fall out of balance is to scroll. Consuming media in and of itself is not inherently dysregulating, but when we aren’t choosing which media we consume, we’re falling victim to patterns of consumption meant to keep us stuck in a loop and decidedly out of balance. Instead of falling trap to the algorithm, choose what you’re going to consume ahead of time. This can be as simple as picking a show before you open up a streaming app. Or listening to a podcast instead of going on social media. Or at least making a point to wear your black kimono robe while you scroll social media to make sure you have at least one foot in the real world! However you choose which content to consume, make sure it’s feeding your mind and nourishing your mindset, keeping you in balance long after the content is finished being consumed.
One area you may not think of balancing is your conversations! Balance how you speak with friends, and what you speak about. Perhaps you and your bestie wear your matching black kimono robes to catch up every Sunday night on Zoom. Or maybe you simply try to listen more than you speak. Perhaps your goal to bring conversation into balance is to make sure you’re never speaking ill of another person. However you approach it, making sure you discern the tone and tenor of your conversations will have a lasting impact on how you find balance and equanimity in your routine, everyday life.
So tell us — what do you do to find balance in your routine?
]]>This week in the journal, we want to explore the ways we can center ourselves daily. We know that life comes with ups and downs. We know that the unexpected turn is always just around the corner. And we know that it’s hard to stay present in the moment. But the present moment is where we are most creative, most compassionate, and most centered. So it’s a place well worth entering. To help guide you there during this in between seasonal transition, we’re sharing 5 things you can do to center yourself today. They don’t require anything extra. They don’t require you to go on a big trip. They don’t require you to transform your entire life. All they require is for you to tap into your presence and try them. So without further ado, here are five things you can do to center yourself and learn how to ground yourself every day.
One way to physically clear yourself of stagnant energy and come back to your center is to do breathwork. While there are plenty of classes you can attend, or online apps you can use, you can also access the benefits of breathwork at any time. We love the 4-4-4-4 method. This means you breathe in for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold your breath for four counts. This is also called box breathing. You can slip into your luxury silk robe, find a quiet place, put a hand on your heart and start to breathe deeply. This can help clear your mind, refresh your energy, and help you see new possibilities when you’re stuck. When we designed our kimono store, we knew we’d line up our plus size kimono robes, men’s kimono robes, our fan favorite Azumi Kimono Wraps, and the like — but one intention we also held was that it would be a space where you, our customer, could come to take a deep breath. So if you come visit us in San Francisco, we invite you to stop by, sit on our big velvet couch, surrounded by beautiful wellness goods, and do some box breathing here! We know how healing a deep breath can be, and want you to feel you can access that at any time.
You know by now that meditation is a wonderful way to center yourself. But maybe you’re feeling disengaged from your practice, or maybe you’ve never tried it before. Center yourself today by practicing meditation in a whole new way. It can be easy! Perhaps you’re letting the sun hit your face, wrapped in your gorgeous Azumi Kimono Wrap, while taking a break from work. Allow your mind to be quiet for just 90 seconds. Feel the sun on your skin. Feel the Azumi Kimono Wrap against your skin. Listen to the sounds you can hear. Take in the moment so you can feel fully present. Even just 90 seconds of a new way to meditate can enliven you and bring you back to your center.
Grounding can be a quick and easy way to center yourself as well. Grounding is the act of connecting your feet to the ground. That’s it! Take off your socks and shoes and allow your feet to feel the earth. There are many cultures that believe the earth speaks to us. So take it a step further. Allow yourself to hear what the earth is saying to you as you connect with it. We get so stuck to our screens that it’s easy to forget there’s information in nature as well. When we created our luxury silk robes, we knew that natural materials have a quality to them that makes you feel centered and connected. So whether you’re connecting with your luxury silk robe or the ground beneath your feet, reconnect with nature and you’ll be well on your way to centering yourself today.
If you’re like us, you have a million things on your mind at all times. You are taking care of your family, helping celebrate a friend’s milestone, planning holiday visits, buying gifts for everyone, not to mention trying to exercise, sleep enough, eat well. The list goes on and on and on. Sometimes the best way to really clear your head isn’t to check everything off of your list – this is exhausting! Sometimes the best way to clear your head is to do a brain dump. This can be written or typed on your favorite note-taking app, but essentially it’s just listing out every single task that needs to be accomplished. It sounds simple, but this simple act of doing a brain dump can alleviate the pressure builds up from trying to hold everything in your head at once, which makes you distracted and absent to everyday moments. Slip into your favorite plus size kimono robe or wrap, get your favorite notebook, and jot down every single to-do. Let yourself see your course on a page, and you’ll feel much more on track.
An SOP is a Standard Operating Procedure. Building a system in an organization like a business is a way to ensure that the same protocols get followed day to day. It’s a great way to communicate. And it allows everything to operate seamlessly. But have you tried to do one for yourself? This can be as simple as saying that every time you wake up in the morning, you take your gua sha tool in rose quartz and spend three minutes massaging your facial skin. That can be the one thing you need to start your day and flow seamlessly. Perhaps you always put your luxury silk robe on to cook dinner. Or maybe you light a candle in the kitchen at the end of the day. Define the rituals, acts, methods, or systems that help you feel grounded throughout the day to feel centered all day long. Now you know how to center yourself every day!
]]>You take care of others, and we take care of you. At KIM+ONO, we’re a small team who’s just like you. Young parents, family people, and kinkeepers in our own communities. So we know the power of living in accordance with your values. When people talk about values, it can sound constraining. It can sound like obeying the rules or not falling out of line. But when you define your life values for yourself, and then you live them in integrity, you end up feeling joyful, spacious, and centered. Living in accordance with the values that you have for your life is an act of self-care. It’s a way to take care of your mind and body, led by your spirit. When we created our collection of silk floral robes, we knew that we weren’t just speaking to how women felt on the outside, but how they felt on the inside. How we created our flower kimono robe collections was just as important as the design. Our values, from our family heritage and history to maintaining fair wages for our workers, are stitched into every single flower kimono robe.
And this just feels good. Living one’s values just feels good. It gives you a boost of energy, a dash of confidence, and the resilience to keep on going when life gets a little chaotic. So today in the journal, we’re going to investigate a handful of ways to improve your life by living your values and adding even more beauty and joy to your everyday life.
When founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, were little girls, they traveled with their parents to Asia. It was there that the sisters fell in love with the handcrafting process of beautiful long kimono. The young girls were curious. They peeked into the shops. Spied on the artisans. They touched the beautiful silk fabrics of the floral kimono and became completely absorbed by the watercolor and garment dying process. This curiosity is what led them to make their own line of silk floral robes once they became adults. Approaching life with childlike curiosity is the best way to connect with what truly speaks to you. Instead of only pursuing hobbies or careers that mean something to someone else, following your curiosities creates a direct link between your values and your daily life. Your curiosity shows you what is valuable to you. It shows you what you love. Just like the Tam sisters, approach your life with curiosity and who knows where you’ll end up? But one thing you can count on: it’ll be somewhere that feels wonderful when you’re there.
Staying connected to your values and letting every day of your life feel like a dream isn’t just a once and done act. It’s a constant process of becoming who you truly are. When the Tam sisters created their silk floral robes, they knew that they wanted each customer to feel confident in their own skin. They wanted each flower kimono robe to be a beautiful reinforcement of the beauty inside each person who wears one. When you feel confident, you can withstand anything. The resilience you need to move through your days and weeks in integrity, without giving up, and staying true to your values, comes naturally when you believe in yourself. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, too. And this resilience will help you build a life that’s fully integrated with your values.
We have always loved the quality of handcrafted products. Whether it’s the long kimono robes in our online store or the wellness goodies in our brick and mortar shop, the quality of every item is imperative to us. In your own life, invest in quality products that bring you joy. Avoid stockpiling, and instead give and get with intention. Let the quality of the things you surround yourself with reinforce your values of sustainability and care. A white silk robe you wear on your wedding day can last a lifetime — through your honeymoon, nursing, trips with girlfriends, and even a gifted heirloom to a treasured member of your family. When you invest in quality items, you are reinforcing to yourself that you care about the quality experience of your everyday.
You take care of so many people in your life. And while that can sometimes take a toll, it can also be energizing. You can gain so much by treating others with respect, love, and compassion. Avoiding gossip, being kind — these are all characteristics and values that add to your life, not just others’. Gifting someone a flower kimono robe to say how much you care, bringing them soup when they’re sick, showing up for them when they need support — all of these things bring value to their life and yours. And if you gift yourself a beautiful white silk robe when sending one their way too, it can serve as a reminder that taking good care of yourself and others is paramount to your everyday happiness.
These are just a few ways to align your values with your everyday life and lead a life that you can feel proud of and excited by. When you feel your inner and outer worlds align, there is nothing quite as beautiful. You can wake up every morning, slip into a beautiful silk floral robe, and look out at the day knowing that good things are coming, because you’ll make it so.
]]>And while you keep accomplishing things on your to-do list, you also know that it’s a never-ending list. That’s because it’s not a list, it’s a cycle. There will always be more to be done because there is a cycle of things to do, and cycles continue. So while you’re in the cycle of the day to day rise and grind, you might as well make it a little more beautiful. This is what we call handcrafting your life.
At KIM+ONO, we definitely have a soft spot for the handcrafted process. After all, our floral kimono robes are handcrafted by the same family of artisans our family has partnered with for decades in China’s Silk Village. And it was those artisan workspaces where founders, sisters Tiffany and Renee Tam, fell in love with the process of crafting traditional Japanese kimono. From that inspiration sprung their modern collection of floral kimono robes, plus size kimono dusters, and even men’s kimono robes and wraps. We know a thing or two about the value of handcrafted processes. So this week in the journal, we’re exploring how to handcraft the elements of your days to make for a beautiful and intentional life. Here’s how to craft an intentional daily routine:
The first act of your day can be a creative one. Making breakfast for yourself is a delightful and nourishing way to make a beautiful and intentional moment for yourself. Instead of grabbing for a breakfast bar, grab your kettle and put some water on for coffee or tea. You don’t even have to get out of your beautiful floral black kimono robe just yet. Stay wrapped up in silk as you craft an easy, filling breakfast for yourself. Even just cracking a few eggs with buttered toast does so much for your psyche (not to mention your blood sugar levels!). It’s a way to start your day with intention and focus your hands on a task.
Everyone needs breaks during the day. You can mindlessly scroll the internet, or craft a space that allows you to really take a break and reset. Whether you’re working from home and need a little off-computer time, or you’re mentally checking out of childcare tasks so you can come back full force, creating a breathwork space is a great way to craft a moment for yourself. You can keep it simple by slipping into your green kimono robe, finding a quiet corner, and doing some box breathing (4 counts inhale - 4 counts hold - 4 counts exhale - 4 counts hold). It’s as simple as that! When you wrap up in your plus size kimono duster, you’re telling your body it’s okay and important to slow down. And when you take some deep breaths, you slow your body down as well. Craft a break by getting in touch with your senses and your breath.
Bringing intentional and beauty to your work space can be an incredibly nurturing feeling. Since it’s where you may spend the majority of your week, handcrafting the space to be just what you need is an act of self care. Clear off your desk and declutter your space to relax your eyesight. Play music that makes you feel calm and productive. Write with a pen that you love to use in a journal or appointment book that makes you feel organized and together. Bring your best floral kimono robe to the Zoom meeting and then let yourself be wrapped in silk all day long. Crafting your focused work area can help you feel the beauty in every moment.
Another beautiful way to craft your day is to create rituals at different moments of the day. When you finish your work day, whether you’re commuting from downtown or your home office, give yourself a chance to really end the day. Get changed into your floral kimono robe, light a candle, and make a pot of tea. Do a closing ritual to your day to really finish it (even if you check emails later — which we hope you do not!). This ritual will help your brain detach from the work of the day and reattach to the moment itself.
Everybody deserves a support system. So while you’re running around and supporting everyone else, make sure you’re also supporting yourself. Getting a team of healthcare professionals, a counselor, or even just a meditation practice can go a long way to making every part of your day more beautiful. While we know that the small everyday acts like wearing your green kimono robe can make you feel better in an instant, it’s also the long term care from a therapist, advisor, or practice that allows you to feel as good as you can every single day.
How do you handcraft your day from start to finish? Do you meditate in the morning? Do a morning beginning-of-the-workday ritual instead of a closing end-of-day ritual? All of these choices are just more ways you can craft a mindful daily routine and schedule that feels like you. And before you know it, those days will add up to a beautiful life.
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