We’ve all heard about kimonos as they grace us with elegance and comfort. However, do you know their history? Today, we would like to give you an in-depth look at this remarkable garment, including some suggestions on how to wear it respectably.
Kimono History
During the Japanese Heian Period (794-1185), garments resembling the present kimono were first worn. It was frequently paired with a form of apron called a mo or the Chinese-influenced hakama (a type of long skirt with or without a divider to separate the legs, comparable to trousers). Later, removing the hakama from the kimono-like garment was in style. Due to the need for a new method of holding the robe closed, the obi – a wide sash worn around the waist – was created.
The kimono had evolved into a common piece of clothing by the Kamakura Period (1185–1333), and layering had become widespread. The traditional Japanese color schemes, based on seasons, gender, and occasionally political and familial relationships, are said to have been developed during this time. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), the technique of producing kimonos developed into a specialized profession. Some were true works of art and cost as much as a family house! Kimonos were kept by the wearer and passed down through the family as an heirloom.
The versatility of kimonos was one of their numerous charms. To fit any season, they may easily be layered or changed. Winter and fall are the seasons for wearing heavy silk kimonos, whereas summer is the season for wearing light yukatas made of linen and cotton. Even now, many people still dress in yukatas for summer festivals and fireworks displays (Miyabi).
Both men’s and women’s fashions have remained constant since the Edo Period. The difficulty of wearing a kimono and bulky sandals eventually became an obstacle. When the government encouraged citizens to embrace Western dress trends during the Meiji Period (1868–1922), it went out of popularity.
Kimonos today
Although kimonos are inextricably related to tradition in Japan, they have more recently gained worldwide cult status as a fashion statement. In the late 1990s, there was a resurgence of interest in Japanese culture worldwide. The kimono’s exquisite designs, lavish hues, and eye-catching silhouette caught the attention of a generation eager to make a statement, especially on social media. However, there have been many cases where they were used incorrectly, meaning they were used as fashion statements where the culture wasn’t honored properly.
Wearing one can provide a change of pace, an opportunity to dress up, relax and unwind, and a connection to a recently unearthed kimono history for some. Others see it as an opportunity to wear something incredibly stunning and feminine as an alternative to a luxury outfit that anybody could see. In fact, many of its contemporary admirers have never even been to Japan yet nevertheless favor it for special occasions.
The increase in kimono rental businesses in Japan also implies that more people are eager to rediscover this traditional outfit, which is often worn only for formal occasions like weddings. The kimono’s new admirers are confident that the garment can still play a role in our everyday wardrobe because a burgeoning generation of young designers is offering a fresh twist on traditional shapes and patterns.
How to wear a kimono
Kimonos have multiple uses, so you get a versatile item of apparel that won’t just gather dust in your closet!
1) Wear a kimono when relaxing and lounging around
Nothing compares to weekend or evening snoozing in a kimono. It’s the ideal concealer that injects some glitz into your regular life. Wear one long silk kimono when getting ready to go out or while lounging around the house. They not only make you feel and look lovely, but they are also lighter and more aesthetically pleasing than a fluffy cotton dressing robe. It will simply feel incredible on your skin! A lounge kimono is the thing to go for if you want to relish in full luxury.
2) Pair your kimono with jeans and a t-shirt
Make your look even more appealing with a kimono cover-up! Put it over your preferred plain white t-shirt, trousers, and stylish sneakers or flats. If you wish to uplevel your look, you can even combine the vegan silk kimono with flared jeans and platform boots.
3) Putting together a coordinated, well-thought-out “out-and-about” look
Tonal colors from head to toe offer sublime sophistication. Choose shoes, a blouse, and pants that are all shades of the same color as your kimono. Additionally, go for the color that stands out the most from a multicolored kimono and base your other hues on it. Keep in mind that because kimonos are reversible, they’re ideal for giving your ensembles versatility and are appropriate for wearing throughout the year.
4) Summertime essentials, whether at home or abroad
Kimonos are a must-have for your vacations! Toss over a bikini or one-piece swimsuit for transitional beach-to-bar occasions. It’s going to be the perfect and most comfortable loungewear. Agatinia’s vegan silk kimonos are lightweight and fold flat, making them ideal for travel when space is at a premium. Wear it around the pool or slip it over baggy pants, paper bag shorts, or a dress for nighttime events and beach strolls.
5) Add a vintage silk kimono to a dress-down outfit to glam it up.
It is truly a bold fashion statement that instantly transforms a casual outfit into something appropriate for an evening out. For a last-minute date or meeting with friends, dress up your leggings and t-shirt combo with shoes, bold earrings, and a stylish bag. Or you can wear a vegan silk kimono as a stylish cover combined with a simple tee and shorts, completing the look with sandals and accessories.
The Japanese respectably wear kimonos, which takes a lot of skill and education. But don’t worry, wearing one is not challenging. A kimono is fun and comfortable to wear – its versatility will allow you plenty of opportunities to experiment! Just make sure you respect the kimono’s historical background and design before wearing it.
