All about the Kimono
The kimono is more than a garment — it’s a living symbol of Japanese culture, artistry, and heritage. Originating over a thousand years ago during the Heian period, the kimono has evolved from everyday wear to a treasured ceremonial and fashion piece.
There are many types of kimono, each with its own meaning and occasion:
Furisode
The long-sleeved kimono worn by unmarried women, full of youthful flair and dramatic elegance.
Tomesode
Formal wear for married women, often with refined patterns near the hem.
Haori
A short kimono-style jacket traditionally worn over a kimono, now often styled as a modern layering piece. Haori blend functionality with beauty and are beloved for their flowing lines and often hidden inner linings that reveal miniature works of art.
Nagajuban
The classic undergarment for a kimono is a plain robe-like garment called a nagajuban. They are usually made from cotton or synthetic materials such as polyester, and layered underneath the kimono to prevent wear, tear, and stains. Nagajuban have a white or contrasting
Yukata
A lightweight, casual cotton kimono, traditionally worn to summer festivals and hot springs.
Houmongi
A semi-formal kimono for women of all ages, known for elegant designs that flow seamlessly across the fabric.
Komon
Everyday wear featuring small, repeating patterns — subtle, charming, and versatile.
Uchikake
A lavish outer robe worn by brides or in stage performances, often adorned with metallic threads, heavy embroidery, and exquisite motifs.
...
Some vintage and ceremonial kimono feature extraordinary real gold leaf embroidery, known as kinkoma or surihaku. Thin layers of gold are hand-applied or couched with metallic threads, creating luminous designs that shimmer with every movement. These pieces were once reserved for nobility, weddings, and special performances — a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of Japanese textile artisans.
Today, we celebrate the kimono as wearable art — vintage pieces reborn for modern lives. Whether styled for the street or displayed in the home, each one holds the grace of the past and the individuality of the present.