A timeless piece if ever there was one, the kimono is one of the very rare garments to have been worn for over a thousand years , in Asia and the West, by all levels of the population.
Masculine before becoming one of the symbols of Japanese femininity, a mixture of sophistication, mystery and elegance, the kimono has inspired numerous fashion designers, whose different versions of this clothing have in turn inspired loan brands -to wear, so much so that the kimono is today a basic of the women’s wardrobe .
A look back at a thousand years of history and tips for wearing a kimono well today!
Little history of the kimono
history of the kimono
The origins of the kimono can be found in 7th century Japan , which then lived under Chinese influence. These first kimonos are underwear, which are worn with pants, a skirt or even a large, wide jacket.
Some time later, at the turn of the 12th century, during the Heian period, the kimono changed its status and became an indicator of the social rank occupied by its wearer. The kimonos then become true works of art , embroidered and colorful, which evolve with the seasons, occasions and the social rank of the person wearing them.
It was from the 14th century that the kimono was worn over other clothing and from the Edo period (from 1600 to 1868), the kimono became traditional Japanese clothing. Everyone wears it, regardless of gender, age, social status, etc.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Japanese and Western cultures met, which resulted in the birth of a new type of kimono, the result of a cultural fusion between the two worlds .
Quickly taken up by European and American designers, the traditional Japanese kimono will be at the origin of some cult fashion creations : the proposals of Kenzo of course, but also the red kimono of Madonna, created by Jean-Paul Gaultier, that of Björk by Alexander McQueen or the revolutionary kimonos by Junko Koshino.
Now part of globalized Western customs, the kimono comes in a multitude of cuts, materials, colors and prints, it has become a timeless basic.
Which kimono to choose today?
As you can imagine, today there are very (too) many options in the kimono aisle. Here are our favorites.
The structured kimono: the most graphic
Made of relatively thick cotton, generally short and with long or ¾ widely flared sleeves, this kimono offers a nicely structured fall , ideal for chic, minimalist, architectural looks, etc. We love it.
The satin kimono: the most traditional
women’s kimono@Pinterest
Another favorite of your good friends: the plain or printed silk (or satin) kimono, your choice. Clearly Japanese, it will bring a touch of delicacy and sophistication to your outfits, so chic.
The long kimono: the most bohemian
bohemian kimono for women@Etsy
Our latest favorite kimono of the moment is the long kimono with ¾ sleeves : we love it! It is one of the key pieces of summer, light and fluid as can be, which enhances any outfit with a touch of elegance and lightness.
How to wear a women’s kimono?
There are a thousand and one ways to wear a women’s kimono to be modern! We’ll give you some ideas.
The kimono at the office
office kimono@pinterest
Swap your traditional blazer for a kimono to add style to your office looks. A beautiful structured kimono in honeycomb textured material will go wonderfully with plain tailored pants or shorts and a white shirt.
To be on top of the trends, opt for a white mandarin collar shirt, buttoned all the way to the top, gray pants and a pair of moccasins or derbies .
The kimono with sneakers
The kimono also lends itself very well to the game of chic-casual outfits, and will advantageously replace a simple knit cardigan. We particularly advise you to mix a floral silk kimono with a white t-shirt , straight jeans and a pair of sneakers.
To modernize the whole look, add a fanny pack!
The kimono for a bohemian chic look
There’s nothing like a long, ultra-fluid kimono to cover your shoulders on a summer evening, and even more so if you wear it over a long bohemian-style dress! If your dress is plain, don’t hesitate to go for a printed kimono (floral or geometric for example).
The kimono on vacation
On vacation, wear a short, colorful kimono over an ultra-simple look based on a one-piece swimsuit, denim shorts and flat sandals! This is THE touch that will make all the difference.
The kimono for a cool look
If the traditional kimono is a rather dressy piece, nothing prevents you from twisting it to create an ultra trendy comfy look . For example, you can wear a short structured kimono over boyfriend jeans and a ribbed tank top. A satin kimono will go very well with denim overalls and a pair of sneakers, etc. Have fun !
