How to wear a kimono?

Are you looking for inspiration to create a stylish outfit with a kimono? Do you need tips on how to choose a kimono that suits you and how to incorporate it into your wardrobe?

You're in the right place.

As a fan of bohemian style, I see kimonos as iconic pieces in my wardrobe. They allow you to instantly personalise an outfit and give it a lot of flair!

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

Chic and feminine, the kimono is a lightweight jacket that you can wear every day to elevate any outfit. It goes perfectly with a plain top, skinny jeans, and heels. You can enhance your kimono by pairing it with bohemian-style accessories. Be sure to carefully select your clothing to create colour coordination and choose tones that flatter you. Finally, if you want to style a kimono with a dressy outfit, it’s definitely possible by opting for a lovely plain jumpsuit or an elegant black dress.

Want to know more? Keep reading to discover:

• Where the kimono originates from and what it actually is,
• Tips for choosing a jacket that suits your taste and body shape,
• What type of top and pants to wear daily with a kimono,
• How to style a kimono to create a dressed-up and unique outfit,
• And plenty of examples of outfits featuring this must-have fashion piece!

What is a kimono jacket?

Reappearing a few years ago on the runways, the kimono is a garment that isn’t always easy to define. To help clarify what we’re talking about, I’d like to give you 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 translates to "object, thing".

A kimono literally means "something 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 jacket that covers the body from the shoulders to the 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 wear kimonos, especially during traditional festivals, New Year celebrations, or significant anniversaries. This is a treasured garment that is passed down within families and is 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 that typically falls to mid-thigh and is worn open. It is rather 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 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 example, Christian Louboutin designed shoes using prints from a kimono. Other major fashion houses are also renowned for reinventing the kimono in recent years, including Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen.

How to Choose the Right Kimono?

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

Based on Your Body Shape

As it’s 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. A shorter front with a longer back can also create a lovely asymmetry that enhances your look.

Finally, if you're looking to soften some curves, a kimono could be a great option for you as it conceals the upper thighs and bottom while remaining open at the front, highlighting your décolletage.

Based on your skin tone and eye colour

To create a lovely harmony in your outfit, you could choose a kimono that has details that reflect the colour of your eyes.

Additionally, if you have a matte complexion, don't hesitate to wear a light kimono for contrast. If you have fair skin that tends to flush, I recommend steering clear of warm colours and opting for pastel shades like light 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 paired with at least three outfits you wear regularly. This advice definitely applies to kimonos: that way, you can be sure you’ll wear it often and get the most out of it!

Trust Yourself!

Lastly, and this is crucial, trust your instincts when buying a kimono. Since it’s a unique garment that adds character to your outfit, you shouldn’t settle for one just because. Take your time to choose and be patient: wait for something that truly captivates you when it comes to selecting a kimono!

How to Stylishly Match Your Kimono?

With its cut and wide range of patterns, this type of jacket will effortlessly complement a classic outfit, whether you're heading to work, going out with friends, or dressing up 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 patterned kimonos with prints. To showcase them well, opt for a simple top in a colour that matches one of the hues in your kimono's design. To avoid a matching tones effect, I recommend choosing the least prominent colour from your kimono.

👉 Most t-shirts pair beautifully with kimonos. If you're after a slightly more elegant outfit, a lovely blouse would also do the trick. Want a trendy look? Go for a crop top!

Go for a pair of jeans!

Narrow, slim, and skinny jeans pair beautifully with kimonos. In fact, they contrast nicely with the loose fit of this jacket, helping to create a more streamlined and elongated silhouette!

In summer, for a relaxed bohemian chic style, you can also wear a lovely denim short!

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

Pair it with high-heeled shoes

Like fitted jeans, heeled shoes can elongate your legs while enhancing their appearance. In summer, you can wear a kimono with wedge sandals, which will give your look a boho vibe. In winter, you can pair it with lovely ankle boots.

Embrace Boho Accessories!

Whatever your style, accessories enhance your clothing and reflect your personality. They are a subtle and elegant way to express your tastes and show what makes you unique.

Kimonos pair beautifully with a relaxed, ethnic style that has a chic, bohemian vibe. Here are some accessory examples in this trend that will elevate your outfit:

• golden bracelets, worn in mismatched pairs of at least 3 to 5,
• a long necklace, like a lariat, with a pendant,
• a fringed bag,
• a bohemian-style satchel made from natural leather,

➡️ On the hunt for that special gem? Check out our collection of bohemian bags!

• a hat,
• a flower crown…

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

How to Style a Chic Outfit with a Kimono?

Until now, the tips provided in this guide have primarily focused on outfits for everyday wear, whether smart or casual. However, you can definitely wear a kimono for a wedding, a christening, or any other festive occasion.

To create an exceptional look, I recommend wearing your kimono with a sleek satin playsuit. Choose one that is stylish and perfectly fitted to your shape. With it, you can wear heels in a colour that contrasts with your playsuit but matches your kimono. This way, you'll achieve a truly star-worthy look!

👉 If this isn't really your style, you can swap the jumpsuit for a pair of relaxed-fit trousers (like cigarette pants) or a simple black dress.

Finally, to complete your outfit, go for an elegant makeup look and accessories that match each other and the rest of your attire.

I hope this article has inspired you to embrace the kimono in your wardrobe, creating unique and original outfits that reflect your personal style!

And to complete your look, feel free to check out our online store dedicated to the bohemian world right now! You'll find a variety of dress, skirt, and blouse styles that would pair perfectly with a kimono.

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

Tunic and blouse