Vintage Kimono Information

What is the attraction of ‘Vintage Kimono’? Basically, the attraction of Kimono derives from its textile, design and technique. For the textile, basic choices are raw silk, wool and cotton, which are all unique and attractive. Then techniques and designs that perfectly match its textile are carefully chosen from various selections such as weave, dye, embroidery, gold leaf, lacquer. The combination of these factors makes each Kimono completely unique. Those designs and techniques reflect the trend and taste in each period. Although contemporary Kimono are brand new and beautiful, vintage Kimono have something contemporary Kimono never posses, they are holding the history of each period. For example, some Kimono from Taisho Period, 1912-1926, carry some unique atmosphere due to their bold designs, vivid colours and elegant long sleeves.

Vintage Kimono, due to their nature, sometimes have blots or stains with age. Some of our Vintage Kimono are in mint condition, but this is not always the case. Silk is a delicate material that ages more than some other materials, even in ideal conditions.

What is Haori?

Haori are mid-length coats that serve as light coats to be worn over kimono and were originally meant to be worn by men as a component of the hakama. The original function of the haori was to keep the kimono from being exposed to the elements.

Haori, as you can see from the measurements of those that we sell, are of various lengths and widths, but most fall into 50 inches wide by 30 inches long. Shorter ones are meant for domestic wear, whereas the longer ones are for more formal occasions. Length corresponds to formality. The kuro montsuki haori is a formal black silk or crepe haori that is meant for such formal occasions as graduations or mourning.

Some of the haori that we have for sale are of the shibori, or resist-dyeing, variety. Whatever the style, haori are great as clothing, as décor or sources of material for special sewing, quilting or other crafts projects.