How to Wear a Kimono?

Looking for inspiration to style an outfit with a kimono? Need tips on how to pick a kimono that flatters you and fits into your wardrobe?

You're in the right place.

As a fan of bohemian fashion, I see kimonos as iconic pieces in my wardrobe. They can instantly elevate an outfit and add a touch of flair!

Today, I’m sharing everything I know about this lightweight and practical jacket, so it won't have any secrets from you anymore!

Stylish and feminine, the kimono is a lightweight jacket that you can wear daily to elevate any outfit. It pairs perfectly with a solid top, fitted jeans, and heels. You can enhance your kimono by accessorising with bohemian-style items. Make sure to choose your clothing carefully to create colour harmonies and select tones that flatter you. Lastly, if you want to wear a kimono with a formal outfit, that's doable too—just opt for a nice solid-coloured jumpsuit or an elegant black dress.

Want to learn 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 pants to wear daily with a kimono,
• How to pair a kimono to create a stylish and unique outfit,
• And many examples of outfits featuring this must-have fashion piece!

What is a kimono jacket?

The kimono made a comeback in fashion shows a few years ago, but its definition isn't always clear. To help us understand what we're talking about, let's take a quick look at what a kimono can be.

Which country has a kimono as its traditional attire?

The word Kimono comes from Japanese. It's a contraction of the words:

• Kiru, which means "to wear or to be dressed in,"
• Mono, which translates to "object" or "thing."

A kimono literally means "a thing to wear". However, this term doesn't refer to all Japanese clothing, but specifically to a traditional garment worn since the 14th century.

This is a very long jacket 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 arts and conversation.

Even today, the Japanese still wear kimonos, especially for traditional celebrations, New Year, or significant anniversaries. It's a cherished garment that is passed down within families and received with great care.

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 a simple jacket, usually falling to mid-thigh, that is worn open. It is quite lightweight and often features beautiful prints.

It’s a very versatile piece that you can wear 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 featuring prints from a kimono. Other renowned fashion houses have also reinvented the kimono in recent years, including Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen.

How to Choose the Right Kimono?

Thinking of adopting the kimono trend? Whether it's to elevate your everyday outfits or for a special occasion, here are some tips to help you choose a kimono that flatters you.

Depending on Your Body Shape

Since it's a long jacket, the kimono naturally suits women of average to tall height. If you’re petite, you can definitely wear one, but opt for a style that isn’t too long. You can also choose a design that is shorter at the front and longer at the back to create a lovely asymmetry that will enhance your look.

Lastly, if you're looking to smooth out some curves, a kimono could be a great choice for you as it covers the upper thighs and bum while remaining open in the front, highlighting your décolletage.

Based on Your Skin Tone and Eye Colour

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

Additionally, if you have a medium skin tone, feel free to wear a light kimono to create a nice contrast. If you have fair skin and are prone to redness, I recommend avoiding warm colours and opting for pastel shades like light blue or celadon green instead.

Depending on Your Wardrobe

Who hasn't regretted buying a piece of clothing because they couldn't match it with their wardrobe? To avoid such mishaps, here’s a simple tip: when you shop for a new item, ensure that it can be paired with at least three outfits that you wear regularly. This advice definitely applies to kimonos as well, so you'll be sure to 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’s a unique piece that adds character to your outfit, you shouldn’t just settle for any one. Take your time to select and be patient: wait until you have a genuine love for a particular kimono design!

How to Pair 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 even for a special occasion. Here are some tips on how to incorporate it into your wardrobe!

Choose a Solid-Coloured Top for a Pop of Colour

This mainly concerns 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 monochromatic look, I recommend you choose the most subtle colour from your kimono.

👉 Most t-shirts pair really well with kimonos. If you're looking for something a bit more elegant, a nice blouse could also do the trick. Want a trendy look? Go for a crop-top!

Go for a pair of jeans!

Slim, skinny, and tight jeans pair really well with kimonos. In fact, they create a nice contrast with the loose fit of the jacket: it helps to slim and elongate your figure!

In the summer, for a relaxed bohemian chic 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 chic and feminine look that's a bit more polished! 😉

Pair it with Heels

Just like body-hugging jeans, heeled shoes help elongate your legs while enhancing your overall look. In summer, you can pair your kimono with wedge heels, giving your outfit a boho vibe. In winter, you can wear it with nice ankle boots that fit snugly around the ankles.

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 go really well with a casual and ethnic style, inspired by hippie chic vibes. Here are some examples of accessories that are on trend and will elevate your outfit:

• Gold bracelets, to be worn in mismatched styles and in small bunches of at least 3 to 5,
• a long necklace, like a statement piece, with a pendant,
• a fringed bag,
• a bohemian-inspired messenger bag made of natural leather,

➡️ Looking for that unique gem? Check out our collection of boho bags!

• a hat,
• a flower crown…

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

How to Wear a Chic Outfit with a Kimono?

So far, the tips provided in this guide have primarily focused on everyday outfits, whether they're smart or casual. However, you can definitely wear a kimono for a wedding, a baptism, or any other festive occasion.

To achieve an exceptional look, I recommend pairing your kimono with a smooth, solid-coloured jumpsuit. Make sure it’s elegant and fits you perfectly. You can wear high heels in a different colour from your jumpsuit, but one that complements your kimono. This way, you’ll truly look like a star!

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

Finally, to complete your outfit, go for a classy makeup look and choose accessories that match each other as well as the rest of your attire.

I hope this article has inspired you to incorporate a kimono into 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 lifestyle! You'll find plenty of beautiful dresses, skirts, and blouses that go perfectly with a kimono.

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

Tunic and blouse