Kimono means 'the thing to wear' and was originally an undergarment worn by the aristocracy, but by the 16th century had become the garment of choice for all classes and both sexes. They are practical, although we have adapted the historic design by making the sleeve aperture much slimmer so they don't catch on doorknobs and sending scalding cups of tea/coffee up the walls! We have kept the wide sash belt (or Obi) as they look so stylish!

I was also anxious to create 2 different sizes as Kimono should be quite roomy, so this is not a 'one size fits all' kind of garment . We have  created in a 10/12 and a 14/16.

In terms of design, we have white cranes on a gold/black background (soooooo beautiful) and the crane is the Japanese symbol of longevity and good fortune; a wonderfully vibrant homage to cherry blossom (the symbol of hope and friendship) in crimson and pink, and finally, the classic 'Seigaiha' pattern in duck-egg blue. This ancestral motif dates to the 6th century and 'Seigaiha' literally means 'blue sea and waves' and symbolises power. I may sound like a trainspotter(!) but I used to work in high-end fashion and appreciate a well-executed, 'turned seam' and theseKimono are the work of a perfectionist. 

You will find no short-cut overlocking here!

Machine Wash at 30 degrees

Iron