A Past, Recrafted

KIMONO TYPES

Furisode

A young woman glides by in bright floating silks, an idyllic picture from days gone by. The furisode is distinguished by it’s long swinging sleeves and elaborate patterns. Traditionally it is worn to signify that a girl has come of age: until today today this formal kimono is worn only by unwed women.

Tomesode

The a: a paragon of luxurious, subdued elegance. This formal kimono, worn only by married
women, is traditionally black with lavish gold embroidered designs below the knees, and simple family ‘mom’ crests on the back and sleeves.

Houmongi

To move like swaying autumn boughs and leaves, or trail a waterfall in her wake. Such is the effect of a classic houmongi; for its design extends smoothly across the seams like a work of art on a flowing canvas. Once worn by ladies of rank, it is now the semi-formal garment of choice for women of any age and status. Houmongi, means ‘visiting dress’.

Komon

If one desires something dressy for a casually elegant affair, one should look to the komon. This versatile kimono, made usually of light silk, has an all-over print and can be lent a more formal look when teamed with the right obi.

Yukata

The warmth of summer is offset perfectly by a light, cotton yukata. This most casual and easily worn of kimono were originally dyed in indigo, but later would come a multitude of print styles from plain geometric patterns to bright florals. Yukata are very commonly
seen worn at summer festival times. The cut pattern of the yukata is the same as the komon.

Haori

To throw a mismatching coat or wrap over one’s kimono may be considered a sartorial offence. Hence, the creation of the haori: an overcoat designed specially to be worn over kimono, usually made from wool or thick silk. Silk haori are often adored with shibori, miniature tie-dye patterns.

OBI TYPES

Maru Obi

A flock of silken cranes in flights, or bamboo leaves swathed in the shimmer of a rising sun. Such are the themes that adorn the maru, the most formal and regal of obi. Oft richly embroidered with golden thread, the maru is typically worn only worn by brides or on rare
ceremonial occasions due to its considerable weight and cost.

Fukuro Obi

The fukuro is a delicately woven length of silk brocade, the most luxurious obi after the opulent maru. It has all but replaced the former as the formal obi of choice and looks equally sumptuous while being lighter and easier to wear.

Nagoya Obi

This obi derives it name from the bustling city of Nagoya where it was conceived. With a portion pre-folded and stitched, it is far easier to put on, while being as aesthetically pleasing as its counterparts. The nagoya was popularised by Toyko’s geisha community in the
1920s and has remained popular.

Hanhaba Obi

Beauty does not always come at a high price, but can be found in vibrants prints and weaves and pretty florals on hanhaba obi. The casual and affordable obi is half the width of its other cousins and is customarily paired with the informal yukata, or worn by girls who love to create striking bows and features when tying the obi.

OBI ACCESSORIES