Are you on the lookout for inspiration to create a stylish outfit with a kimono? Looking for tips on how to choose a kimono that flatters you and how to incorporate it into your wardrobe?
You're in the right place.
As a lover of bohemian fashion, I view kimonos as iconic pieces in my wardrobe. They can instantly transform an outfit and add a touch of flair!
Today, I'm sharing everything I know about this lightweight and practical jacket, so you'll know all its secrets!
Trendy and feminine, the kimono is a lightweight jacket that can be worn every day to enhance any outfit. It pairs beautifully with a plain top, slim jeans, and heels. You can elevate your kimono by styling it with bohemian accessories. Be sure to carefully choose your clothing to create colour coordination and select tones that flatter you. Finally, if you want to wear a kimono with a dressy outfit, it's definitely achievable by opting for a lovely solid-coloured jumpsuit or an elegant black dress.
Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:
- Where the kimono originates and what it truly is,
- Tips for choosing a jacket that suits your style and body shape,
- What types of tops and pants to wear daily with a kimono,
- How to pair a kimono to create a stylish and unique outfit,
- And plenty of examples of outfits featuring this essential fashion piece!
What is a kimono jacket?
Making a comeback a few years ago in fashion shows, the kimono is a garment that's not always easy to define. To give you a clearer idea of what a kimono is, let's take a closer look at its various forms.
Which country has a kimono as its traditional attire?
The word Kimono comes from Japanese. It is a contraction of the words:
- Kiru, which means "to wear, to be dressed in",
- Mono, which means "object, thing".
A kimono literally means "a thing you wear." However, this term does not refer to all Japanese clothing, but specifically to a traditional garment that has been worn since the 14th century.
This is a very long coat that covers the body from shoulders to ankles and can be adorned with stunning colourful patterns. In medieval Japan, exceptional kimonos were worn by geishas, who were companions trained in the arts and conversation.
Even today, the Japanese still wear kimonos, especially for traditional celebrations, New Year, or significant anniversaries. It’s a treasured garment that is passed down within families and is cared for diligently.
What is the trendy kimono jacket?
While directly inspired by the traditional styles, the kimono seen in today’s fashion is not the same as the classic Japanese kimono. It's more of a casual jacket, typically falling to mid-thigh, and is worn open. It's generally lightweight and often features beautiful prints.
It's a very versatile piece that you can wear in spring and summer as a lightweight jacket. Depending on the pattern you choose and how you style it, it can add a lot of flair to a simple outfit, giving it a high-fashion touch.
👉 Japanese kimonos have also inspired top designers to create unique patterns. For instance, Christian Louboutin designed shoes using prints from a kimono. Other major fashion houses have also been known to reinvent the kimono in recent years, including Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen.
How to Choose the Right Kimono?
Want to embrace the kimono trend? Whether you're looking to add some flair to your everyday outfits or for a special occasion, here are a few tips to help you choose a kimono that suits you perfectly.
Depending on Your Body Shape
As this is a long jacket, the kimono naturally flatters women of average to tall height. If you're petite, you can certainly wear one, but opt for a style that isn't too long. It can also be shorter at the front and longer at the back, creating a lovely asymmetry that will enhance your look.
Finally, if you're looking to soften some curves, a kimono could be a great choice for you as it conceals the upper thighs and bottom while remaining open at the front, showcasing your décolletage.
Depending on Your Skin Tone and Eye Colour
To create a lovely harmony in your outfit, you could select a kimono that features details that reflect the colour of your eyes.
Additionally, if you have a matte complexion, feel free to wear a light kimono for contrast. If you have fair skin and are prone to redness, I recommend avoiding warm colours in favour of pastel shades like pale blue or celadon green.
Depending on Your Wardrobe
Who hasn’t regretted buying a piece of clothing because they couldn’t match it with their wardrobe? To avoid this kind of mishap, here’s a simple tip: when you shop for a new item, make sure it can be paired with at least three outfits you wear regularly. This advice also applies to kimonos: that way, you can be sure you’ll wear it often and make the most of it!
Trust Yourself!
Lastly, and this is crucial, trust your instincts when buying a kimono. Since it is a unique garment that adds personality to your outfit, you shouldn't just settle for one. Take your time to choose and be patient: wait until you have a genuine crush on a kimono design!
How to Match Your Kimono Well?
With its cut and wide variety of patterns, this type of jacket naturally complements a classic outfit, whether it’s for heading to work, catching up with friends, or even for a special occasion. Here are some tips on how to incorporate it into your wardrobe!
Choose a Solid-Coloured Top to Match
This mainly concerns the printed kimonos. To highlight them, go for a simple top in a colour that matches one of the shades in your kimono's pattern. To avoid a matchy-matchy look, I recommend choosing the most subtle colour in your kimono.
👉 Most t-shirts pair well with kimonos. If you're after a more polished outfit, a lovely blouse could also do the trick. Looking for a trendy style? Go for a crop top!
Go for a pair of jeans!
Skinny and slim-fit jeans pair beautifully with kimonos. They create a lovely contrast with the loose fit of the jacket, helping to slim and elongate your figure!
In summer, for a chic and relaxed bohemian style, you can also wear a lovely denim shorts!
👉 You can also pair your kimono with a simple, solid-coloured dress (like a skater dress) for a look that is both stylish and feminine, and a bit more dressed up! 😉
Pair it with heels
Like fitted jeans, high-heeled shoes help to elongate your legs while enhancing their appearance. In summer, you can wear your kimono with wedged heeled sandals, giving your look a boho vibe. In winter, you can pair it with lovely ankle boots that hug your ankles.
Embrace Boho Accessories!
No matter your style, accessories enhance your clothing and showcase your personality. They are a subtle and stylish way to express your tastes and what makes you unique.
Kimonos pair beautifully with a relaxed, ethnic style that has a touch of boho chic. Here are some examples of accessories in this trend that will elevate your outfit:
- gold bracelets, to be worn mismatched and in small groups of at least 3 to 5,
- a long necklace, like a chain necklace, with a pendant,
- a fringed bag,
- a bohemian-style shoulder bag in natural leather,
➡️ On the hunt for a hidden gem? Check out our boho bag styles!
- a hat,
- a flower crown…
➡️ Flower crowns are perfect for wearing on a lovely summer day or for a special event. Check them out on our online store!
How to Wear a Stylish Outfit with a Kimono?
So far, the tips provided in this guide have primarily focused on outfits for everyday wear, whether they're smart or more casual. However, you can definitely wear a kimono for a wedding, a baptism, or any other festive occasion.
To create a standout look, I recommend wearing your kimono with a sleek satin jumpsuit. Choose one that is stylish and fits you perfectly. Pair it with heels in a colour that contrasts with your jumpsuit but is present in your kimono. This way, you'll achieve a truly star-worthy appearance!
👉 If that's not really your style, you can swap the jumpsuit for a pair of relaxed long trousers (like cigarette pants) or a simple black dress.
Finally, to complete your outfit, go for a stylish make-up look and choose accessories that complement each other and the rest of your attire.
I hope this article inspires you to embrace the kimono in your wardrobe, allowing you to create unique and original outfits that truly reflect your personal style!
And to complete your look, feel free to check out our online boutique dedicated to the bohemian style right now! You'll find a wide range of dresses, skirts, and blouses that would go perfectly with a kimono.
You can even buy some of the kimonos featured in the illustrations of this article! 😉