Kimono Season
America always looks to other cultures for fashion inspiration especially Japanese culture. We are drawn to many aspects of Japanese culture from the koi fish ponds, buddhist beliefs, cherry blossom trees, wet and humid weather, architecture, etc. America is very fascinated with Japanese popular culture and have adopted things from it like anime, video games, fashion trends, music, etc. Many people enjoy the idea of life in cities like Tokyo, so much that they move to Japan. Fashion designers also look to fashion in Japan as trends become very popularized and accepted especially among youths. There are many similarities between the trends that spread in both America and Japan which explains how they influence one another in the fashion industry and thrive off each other. In this post I will focus on fashion styles reflective of Japanese kimonos. Many styles have been designed that add Japanese elements of fashion and create ready-to-wear garments.
This is an example of a traditional Japanese kimono. It begins with a light pink color at the top and has a dip dyed effect with a magenta color. The print includes an all over floral design. It also includes the traditional obi tie.
https://www.dhgate.com/product/2018-summer-traditional-japanese-kimonos/422464626.html
Here is another example of a traditional Japanese kimono. This porcelain white kimono features a colorful floral pattern that is more dense toward the waist. The obi tie looks seamless with the floral print which makes it more cohesive.
https://www.apparelsearch.com/influence/products/k/kimono.html
This is a more modern take on a high fashion kimono. Rather than the usual silk fabric, this piece uses a different and less lustrous fabric. I love the purple embroidery design and the tie on the waist, they compliment the overall fabric.
https://www.ny.us.emb-japan.go.jp/japaninfo/flash_feb_2016/kimono.html
A more modern take of the kimono. This sea green kimono features an overall print of tropical like flowers. It resembles a robe to give it a more comfortable look.
http://www.totafashion.com/kimono-attack/
This example resembles more of a trench coat but there are evident Japanese influences through the flower pattern and silhouette. It looks like a kimono that has been opened. I like the velvet fabric and embroidered flowers.
http://www.ferbena.com/style-kimono-coat-like-fashion-bloggers.html/kimono-modern-fashion/
Another modern take on the kimono with obvious influences through the floral design pattern. This kimono is a bit more unique as it features a fringe trim on the sleeves and bottom. I like the elegant look of this one.
https://newcropshop.com/products/velvet-lounge-kimono-black-rose
This is yet another modern take on the kimono. This still features a floral pattern but is interpreted through the lace design and also includes a netlike structure and a fringe trim to the sleeves as well.
http://becomechic.com/15-ways-to-style-kimono-this-year/
This is Alexander Mcqueen’s take on the Japanese kimono. It features a red fabric and gold embroidery. The piece has bell sleeves and is shorter than the average kimono. It is held by a waist belt to act as the obi. I love the elegance and royal aesthetic to piece.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51721095691621807/?lp=true
Here is Lady Gaga wearing a kimono inspired dress to the 2015 Met Gala. She also accompanied the black and white gown with a japanese inspired headdress.
https://www.heart.co.uk/showbiz/met-gala-2015-best-the-worst-dressed/lady-gaga-met-ball-2015/
Kimonos are most widely used by women but men can rock them too. Here is a black kimono ensemble that are accessorized with the traditional Japanese Geta footwear.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/432345632959145549/visual-search/?x=7&y=7&w=229&h=390
