How to Wear a Kimono?

Are you looking for inspiration to create a stylish outfit with a kimono? Do you need advice 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 see kimonos as iconic pieces in my wardrobe. They can instantly personalise an outfit and add so much flair!

Today, I'm sharing everything I know about this lightweight and practical jacket, so it will have no secrets left for you!

Trendy and feminine, the kimono is a lightweight jacket that can be worn every day to elevate any outfit. It's perfect paired with a plain top, narrow jeans, and high heels. You can enhance your kimono by accessorising with bohemian-style pieces. Be sure to choose your clothes carefully to create colour echoes between them and select shades that flatter you. Finally, if you wish to wear a kimono with a formal outfit, that's possible too; opt for a lovely plain jumpsuit or an elegant little black dress.

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:

• Where the kimono comes from and what it actually is,
• Tips for choosing a jacket that suits your style and body shape,
• What type of top and trousers to wear daily with a kimono,
• How to style a kimono to create a smart and unique outfit,
• And plenty of examples of outfits featuring this essential fashion piece!

What is a kimono jacket?

Having made a comeback in recent years during fashion shows, the kimono is a garment that isn't always easy to define. To clarify what we're talking about, I’d like to offer a brief overview of what a kimono can be.

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 translates to “a thing that is worn.” However, this term doesn't refer to all Japanese clothing; it specifically designates a traditional garment that has been worn since the 14th century.

This is a very long jacket that covers the body from shoulders to ankles and can be adorned with beautiful, vibrant patterns. In medieval Japan, exceptional kimonos were worn by geishas, who were companions trained in the arts and conversation.

Even today, Japanese people wear kimonos, especially during traditional festivals, the New Year, or for significant anniversaries. It's a treasured garment that is passed down through families and well cared for.

What is the trendy kimono jacket?

Although it is directly inspired by it, the kimono seen in today's fashion is not the same as the traditional Japanese kimono. It is simply a jacket, typically falling to mid-thigh, worn open. It tends to be lightweight and often features beautiful prints.

It’s a very versatile piece that can be worn in spring and summer as a light jacket. Depending on the pattern you choose and how you style it, it can really elevate a simple outfit, giving it a high-fashion touch.

👉 Japanese kimonos have also inspired top designers to create unique patterns. For example, Christian Louboutin designed shoes based on kimono prints. Other renowned 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?

Are you looking to embrace the kimono trend? Whether you want to add a touch of style to your everyday outfits or need something special for an occasion, here are some tips to help you choose a kimono that flatters you.

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 a few curves, a kimono could be a great option for you as it hides the upper thighs and bottom while remaining open at the front, highlighting your décolletage.

Depending on your skin tone and eye colour

To create a lovely harmony in your outfit, you might consider choosing a kimono that features details that reflect the colour of your eyes.

Additionally, if you have a medium complexion, don't hesitate to wear a light kimono for contrast. If you have fair skin and are prone to redness, I recommend steering clear of warm colours and opting for pastel shades like soft blue or celadon green instead.

Based 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’re shopping for a new item, make sure it can be matched with at least three outfits that you wear regularly. This advice definitely applies to kimonos: that way, you’ll be sure to wear it often and make the most of it!

Trust Yourself!

Finally, and this is crucial, trust your instincts when buying a kimono. Since it's an original piece of clothing that adds character to your outfit, it's not about just settling for any option. Take your time to choose and be patient: wait until you have a genuine love for a particular kimono design!

How to Stylishly Pair Your Kimono?

With its cut and wide range of patterns, this type of jacket naturally enhances a classic outfit, whether you're heading to work, going out with friends, or dressing up for a special occasion. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate it into your wardrobe!

Choose a Solid Top to Match Your Colour Scheme

This mainly applies to patterned kimonos with prints. To highlight them, go for a simple top in a colour that resembles one of the hues in your kimono's pattern. To avoid a matchy-matchy look, I recommend choosing the most subtle colour from your kimono.

👉 Most t-shirts pair nicely with kimonos. If you’re looking for a slightly more elegant outfit, a lovely blouse could do the trick. Fancy a trendy look? Go for a crop-top!

Choose a pair of jeans!

Slim and skinny jeans pair really well with kimonos. In fact, they contrast nicely with the loose fit of this jacket: it slims and elongates your silhouette!

In summer, for a chic and laid-back bohemian style, you can also wear a lovely pair of denim shorts!

👉 You can also pair your kimono with a simple plain little dress (like a skater dress) for a look that’s both stylish and feminine, and slightly more dressed up! 😉

Wear it with high-heeled shoes

Similar to fitted jeans, high-heeled shoes can elongate your legs while enhancing their appearance. In summer, you can pair your kimono with wedge sandals, giving your outfit a boho vibe. In winter, you can wear it with lovely ankle boots that hug the ankle.

Go for Boho Accessories!

No matter your style, accessories enhance your outfits and showcase your personality. They are a subtle and elegant way to express your tastes and what makes you unique.

Kimonos pair really well with a relaxed and ethnic style, inspired by chic hippie vibes. Here are some examples of accessories in this trend that will enhance your outfit:

• gold bracelets to be worn mismatched and in small groups of at least 3 to 5,
• a long necklace, like a sautoir, with a pendant,
• a fringed bag,
• a bohemian-inspired crossbody bag made from natural leather,

➡️ Looking for that something special? Check out our collection of bohemian bags!

• a hat,
• a floral crown…

➡️ Flower crowns are perfect for wearing on a lovely summer day or for a special event. Check them out on our online shop!

How to Wear a Chic Outfit with a Kimono?

So far, the tips given in this guide have mainly focused on outfits we wear every day, whether they’re dressy or more casual. However, you can absolutely wear a kimono for a wedding, a christening, 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 high heels in a colour that contrasts with your jumpsuit but is also present in your kimono. This will give you a truly star-like appearance!

👉 If that's not really your style, you could swap the jumpsuit for a pair of flowing trousers (like cigarette pants) or a simple black dress.

Finally, to complete your outfit, go for an elegant make-up look and choose accessories that match each other as well as the rest of your ensemble.

I hope this article has inspired you to add a kimono to your wardrobe, allowing you to create unique and original outfits that reflect your personal style!

And to complete your look, feel free to check out our online shop dedicated to the bohemian style! You'll find plenty of dresses, skirts, and blouses that would pair beautifully with a kimono.

You can even buy some of the kimonos featured in the illustrations of this article! 😉

Tunic and blouse